Toyota Yaris 2024: Full Review, Features, and Comparison with Older Models
The 2024 Toyota Yaris continues the legacy of Toyota’s compact, fuel-efficient, and affordable cars. This latest iteration is designed with modern technology, enhanced performance, and a stylish look that appeals to a wide range of drivers. But how does it stack up against its previous versions? In this detailed review, we’ll explore the complete features of the Toyota Yaris 2024, including its design, performance, safety, and more, and compare it with older models to see what’s new and improved.
Overview of the Toyota Yaris 2024
The 2024 Toyota Yaris is a versatile compact car that comes in both hatchback and sedan variants, making it suitable for urban drivers and small families alike. Toyota has enhanced the Yaris with a focus on comfort, fuel efficiency, and safety, while keeping its price competitive. It’s designed to be a reliable vehicle that offers a lot of value for money.
Key Features of the 2024 Toyota Yaris
- Engine: 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder engine producing 106 horsepower.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT).
- Fuel Economy: Up to 40 miles per gallon (MPG) on the highway.
- Infotainment: 7-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Safety: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 with pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams.
- Price: Starting at around $17,000, making it one of the most affordable cars in its class.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Toyota Yaris 2024 offers a well-balanced driving experience. Its 1.5-liter engine provides enough power for daily commuting and city driving, while its responsive handling makes it easy to navigate tight spaces and busy streets. The CVT transmission is smooth, providing an effortless driving experience, although some drivers might prefer the 6-speed manual transmission for a sportier feel.
One of the standout features of the 2024 Yaris is its fuel efficiency. With up to 40 MPG on the highway, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to save on fuel costs. The Yaris is designed for practicality, so while it won’t provide sports-car-like performance, it offers reliability and economy that many drivers prioritize.
Comparison: Toyota Yaris 2024 vs. Older Models
| Feature | Toyota Yaris 2024 | Toyota Yaris 2020 | Toyota Yaris 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 3-cylinder, 106 HP | 1.5L 4-cylinder, 106 HP | 1.5L 4-cylinder, 106 HP |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or CVT | 6-speed automatic or manual | 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual |
| Fuel Economy (Highway) | Up to 40 MPG | Up to 40 MPG | Up to 37 MPG |
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Basic audio system |
| Safety Features | Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 | Toyota Safety Sense | Basic safety features |
| Starting Price | Approx. $17,000 | Approx. $16,600 | Approx. $15,000 |
What’s New in the Toyota Yaris 2024?
While the Toyota Yaris 2024 retains much of the formula that has made the Yaris a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers, there are a few notable upgrades:
- More Advanced Safety Features: The 2024 Yaris comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes enhanced features like pre-collision warnings, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assistance. These features were not available in earlier models.
- Improved Fuel Economy: Although the engine specs remain similar to the 2020 model, slight improvements in aerodynamics and the CVT have boosted fuel efficiency, particularly in highway driving.
- Refreshed Design: The 2024 Yaris has a sleeker, more modern design compared to older models. The front grille, headlights, and overall body shape give it a more contemporary, aggressive look.
- Infotainment System: The 2024 model comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, along with a 7-inch touchscreen display. In contrast, the older models (like the 2016 version) only had basic audio systems and no smartphone integration.
Interior Comfort and Space
The Toyota Yaris 2024 offers a comfortable cabin with seating for five passengers. The interior design has seen significant improvements over the years, with better materials, more legroom, and added convenience features like USB ports and climate control. The seats are designed to provide support during long drives, and the overall build quality is impressive for a car in this price range.
While the Yaris is still a compact vehicle, Toyota has made the most of its interior space. The hatchback variant provides additional cargo space, making it a practical option for those who need to carry more than just passengers. Compared to older models like the 2016 Yaris, the 2024 version feels more spacious and refined.
Interior Upgrades from Previous Models
- Higher-Quality Materials: The 2024 Yaris features soft-touch materials and a more premium feel compared to the hard plastics used in older models.
- Improved Infotainment: The touchscreen display in the 2024 model is larger and more responsive than the systems found in earlier versions.
- Better Sound Insulation: The 2024 Yaris has better soundproofing, reducing road noise for a quieter driving experience.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a priority in the 2024 Toyota Yaris, and it comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
These advanced safety features are not available in many older Yaris models. For example, the 2016 Yaris offered basic safety features such as airbags and stability control but lacked the advanced driver-assist technologies present in the 2024 model.
How to Finance the Toyota Yaris 2024
Purchasing a car like the Toyota Yaris 2024 doesn’t always mean paying in full upfront. Many buyers opt to finance the vehicle through a loan, breaking down the total cost into manageable monthly payments. Below, we explore the best banks for financing your Yaris and how to proceed with the loan application process.
Top Banks for Toyota Yaris 2024 Financing
Here are five of the best banks in the U.S. offering competitive car loan rates:
- Bank of America: Known for its low interest rates starting at 2.39% APR for new cars. Bank of America offers flexible repayment terms up to 72 months and allows for easy online application and approval.
- Chase Auto Loans: Chase provides auto loans with rates as low as 2.69% APR. Customers can benefit from discounts if they are already Chase customers. Terms range up to 84 months, making it suitable for those seeking longer repayment periods.
- LightStream: A division of SunTrust Bank, LightStream offers rates as low as 2.49% for excellent credit. LightStream is popular for its no-fee loans and fast approval process.
- Capital One Auto Finance: Capital One provides pre-qualification services so you can see potential loan terms before applying. Rates start at around 2.79%, and their Auto Navigator tool helps simplify the buying process.
- Wells Fargo: With competitive rates and extensive financing options, Wells Fargo allows for easy repayment and provides personalized loan plans based on the buyer’s credit score and financial profile.
Financing Process for the Toyota Yaris 2024
The steps to finance a Toyota Yaris 2024 are straightforward, but it’s essential to follow the necessary procedures to get the best deal and avoid potential pitfalls.
Step-by-Step Guide to Financing
- Check Your Credit Score: Before applying for a car loan, check your credit score. A higher score will give you access to better interest rates and terms. Most banks offer competitive rates for scores above 700.
- Determine Your Budget: Calculate how much you can afford for a monthly payment. Consider not only the car price but also taxes, fees, insurance, and maintenance costs.
- Pre-Qualify for a Loan: Many banks, such as Capital One and Bank of America, offer pre-qualification services. This step allows you to see what loan amount and interest rate you may be eligible for without affecting your credit score.
- Choose the Best Bank: Based on your pre-qualification offers, select the bank with the best rates and terms. Review factors such as APR, loan term, and any additional fees.
- Apply for the Loan: Once you’ve selected the bank, proceed with the loan application. You’ll need to provide information such as your income, employment status, and other financial details.
- Finalize the Purchase: After approval, the bank will send the loan details to the dealership. You can now finalize your purchase and drive away in your new Toyota Yaris 2024.
Insurance for the Toyota Yaris 2024
Once you’ve financed your Yaris, the next step is to secure car insurance. Auto insurance is not only a legal requirement but also essential for protecting your investment. Here’s what you need to know about insuring your new vehicle.
Best Insurance Providers for Toyota Yaris 2024
- GEICO: Known for affordable rates and excellent customer service, GEICO offers comprehensive coverage options, including liability, collision, and uninsured motorist coverage.
- State Farm: As one of the largest insurance providers, State Farm is ideal for bundling auto insurance with other types of coverage, such as home insurance. They offer competitive rates for safe drivers.
- Progressive: Progressive is a leader in providing innovative options like usage-based insurance (Snapshot program), which can lower premiums for low-mileage drivers.
- Allstate: Allstate’s Drivewise program rewards safe driving habits with discounts. They also offer extensive accident forgiveness and deductible rewards.
- USAA: Available to military members and their families, USAA offers some of the best rates and customer satisfaction in the industry. Their comprehensive policies make them a top choice for military personnel.
Steps to Insure Your Toyota Yaris 2024
- Research Insurance Options: Compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best deal. Make sure you choose sufficient coverage to protect yourself and your new vehicle.
- Select the Right Coverage: Comprehensive and collision coverage are recommended for a new car like the Yaris. Additionally, consider gap insurance, which covers the difference between the car’s value and what you owe on the loan in case of a total loss.
- Apply for Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling policies, having a clean driving record, or even for safety features like the ones found in the Yaris 2024.
- Submit Necessary Documents: Once you’ve selected a provider, you’ll need to submit information about the car, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and details of your financing arrangement.
- Finalize the Insurance Policy: After you’ve reviewed and accepted the terms, the insurer will issue your policy, and you’re officially covered!
Conclusion
The Toyota Yaris 2024 represents a well-rounded, affordable compact car that excels in fuel efficiency, safety, and modern technology. Its improvements over older models, such as the enhanced safety features, refreshed design, and better infotainment system, make it a strong contender in the subcompact car segment.
For drivers seeking a reliable, economical vehicle with a strong focus on safety and technology, the 2024 Yaris offers significant value. When compared to older models, the latest version provides more advanced features and a more refined driving experience, making it worth considering for those looking to upgrade.
