2019 Toyota Yaris iA

Apr 24, 2024, 2:52pm ET

Formerly part of the Scion lineup, the Toyota Yaris iA shares the bulk of its mechanical components with the Mazda2 sedan that's sold in a few global markets including Europe.

Overview

In spite of its Mazda roots, the iA is instantly recognizable as a member of the Toyota lineup thanks to a large hexagonal grille accented by a thin strip of chrome trim and sharp, elongated headlights. The Mazda influence is a lot more pronounced out back, and from certain angles the iA looks like a scaled-down Mazda3.

Life aboard

The iA boasts a clean, elegant cockpit with a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, chrome-look accents and a simple, function-oriented instrument cluster made up of a single analog gauge flanked by two screens. Buyers after a more sporty feel can order the sedan with faux carbon fiber trim on the steering wheel, the center console and the door panels at an extra cost.

The iA comes with a seven-inch screen controlled either by a knob on the center console or voice commands. It groups the hatchback's connectivity and entertainment functions into a single unit, and it comes standard with HD Radio and Aha, which offers tens of thousands of stations of Web-based content like Slacker, MOG and Rhapsody.

Technical specifications

Toyota facilitates buyers' lives by offering the iA with just one engine: a high-compression 1.5-liter four-cylinder unit that makes 106 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 103 lb-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic unit with a sport mode can be ordered at an extra cost.

The iA returns 33 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway when ordered with the six-speed automatic. Selecting the six-speed manual lowers mileage to 31 and 41, respectively.

Standard and optional features

The iA is offered in a single trim level. The list of standard equipment includes keyless entry and go - a unique offering in its segment -, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, power locks, mirrors and windows, a multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker sound system, a rear-view camera, two USB ports and an AUX input. Navigation is available as a dealer-installed accessory.

Occupant safety

The iA packs front, front side and curtain airbags as well as a low-speed pre-collision system that uses a laser sensor to scope out the road ahead in order to help prevent accidents.

Key Competitors

The Toyota Yaris iA fights in the same segment as the Chevrolet Sonic Sedan, the Kia Rio and the Nissan Versa.