What a short, odd life it’s been for the Toyota Yaris iA and Yaris, formerly the Scion iA and the Scion iM. The sporty entry-level sedan and five-door hatchback were introduced as 2016 models. But when Scion abruptly folded 13 years after it debuted, only a few vehicles survived and were absorbed into the Toyota lineup.
Key Takeaways
- Test car: the single-trim Yaris iA, with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder making 106 horsepower and a six-speed automatic; a six-speed manual is also available.
- 32 city / 40 highway / 35 combined mpg with the six-speed automatic, per the EPA.
- Safety: a low-speed forward collision warning system with automatic braking is standard.
- Technology: a rearview camera and a 7-inch touchscreen with a console-mounted rotary controller.
- Interior: The dash is thick, sturdy rubber and plastic.
For 2017, the former Scion iA is now the Toyota Yaris iA. The Scion iM is just the Yaris.
A sub-compact sedan, the 2017 Yaris is offered in one trim. It features a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with 106 horsepower. My test vehicle included a six-speed automatic transmission, but a six-speed manual is also available.
Equipment and Technology
Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition, and entry, cruise control, a low-speed forward collision warning system with automatic braking, full power accessories. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 60/40-split folding rear seats and air-conditioning add to the hefty list rare among entry-level vehicles.
The Yaris iA also has a surprisingly strong list of technology features: a rearview camera, a 7-inch touchscreen with a console-mounted rotary controller, Bluetooth phone, and audio connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system with streaming radio, voice recognition, and a USB interface. A navigation system is an option.
Driving Impressions
Driving the Yaris iA offer also surprises. It feels confident, maneuvers well and holds its own on the freeway. It has a sporty personality, although passing vehicles isn’t the car’s strong suit. And don’t expect any sudden moments of performance.
The Yaris iA’s top competitors include the Kia Rio, Ford Fiesta and Nissan Versa. But the Scion iA is the quietest sub-compact I’ve driven.
Interior
Another surprise is the quality of the materials used in the interior. The dash is thick, sturdy rubber and plastic. The contrasting blue stitch looks handsome against the black console.
2017 Toyota Yaris iA Verdict
The quality of the interior adds to the overall appeal. It’s an entry-level vehicle with a lot to offer.
Likes
Substantial value. Engaging handling. Refined interior for the class. Superior fuel economy.
Dislikes
Garish front grille. No center armrest.
Facts & Figures: 2017 Toyota Yaris iA
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Trim | Yaris iA (single trim) |
| Engine | 1.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 106 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic (6-speed manual available) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 32 city / 40 highway / 35 combined mpg |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
James Raia
A sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004. In addition to founding this site in 2004, James writes a Sunday automotive column for The San Jose Mercury and East Bay Times in Walnut Creek, Calif., and monthly auto review and wellness columns for Gulfshore Business, a magazine in Southwest Florida. An author and contributor to many newspapers, magazines and online publications, co-hosted The Weekly Driver Podcast from 2017 to 2024.
