About a month and a half ago I purchased a brand new 2008 Toyota Yaris manual transmission 3-door hatchback (for some reason they call the hatch a door).  I was looking for an inexpensive car and found there was no cheaper way to go in the new car world than the Yaris.  What I got was a blazing blue agile little car that is exceptionally fun to drive and dare I say eco friendly!?!

That’s right this little monster gets on average 37 mpg making it the most fuel efficient non-hybrid currently available in the US market.  When the Smart Car is available it will top the Yaris at what the Smart website is claiming of just over 40 mpg.  However, the Yaris is still cheaper, much bigger, and a whole lot faster than the Smart Car.  In fact for such a small car it unusually spacious even in the back seat, I’ve surprised a number of people over 6 feet tall riding in the car with ample leg and head room. 

As for fun, the blistering 9.2 seconds from 0-60 mph won’t blow away too many other cars off the line, but the thrill is in hugging even the tightest turns at that 60 mph.  After work I have two options for my drive home, one is the slow stop and go highway, the other is a windy back road barely wide enough to fit a car and a half.  Despite signs warning me the safe speed around many of the corners is 10 or 15 mph, I often find my speedometer pushing 50.  Think I’m blowing smoke, or need further proof, check out the video below where the F1 car attempts to take on the Yaris:

The Yaris is the absolute perfect car for my frequent trips into Boston. With so many terrible drivers in the city the Yaris’ ability to stop on a dime and quick turning responsiveness is invaluable.  Then there is the parking situation, I’m still looking for a spot that is too tight for the car.  Even with just inches of space, the turning radius of the car is so tight it makes maneuvering the car incredibly easy.  Most days I just have to stand there to admire the parking job I did and point it out to everyone passing by.

The new car excitement still hasn’t worn off even after a couple weeks, so I am still wicked stoked about the car.  If you get a chance to get behind the wheel of one of these things I would highly recommend it.  Check back soon for an update after I’ve driven the car for awhile.

Also see my post on 2008 Toyota Yaris Safety