2007 Toyota Yaris By verbiosa on Dec 11, 2007 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

I actually took this test drive with my sister, who was thinking of trading in her 2006 Dodge Stratus for something more fun. The Yaris fit the bill and then some.

I know some people find the design a little off, but I think this is an adorable small car. Also, if the hatchback isn't quite your taste, there is a sedan version that looks more ... grown up. (But who wants to grow up, anyway?!)

I should warn you that you're about to read something that, if replicated, could put you in harm's way. Unfortunately my sis doesn't really think before she acts, and before I knew it, we were speeding down a major in-town roadway at a wild 65 mph. Do Not Do This!

As part of the Universe's grand plan to kill me via heart attack at age 29, we passed two police officers at a gas station. For whatever reason, they did not see us go by. THAT DOESN'T MEAN THE CAR IS INVISIBLE. The small size doesn't mean it will avoid accidents either, but it does pick up and go when you need it to (as well as stop on a dime.)

While it was certainly fun to drive, it didn't feel especially well-made. It's an economy car in more ways than one. Features were pretty basic. Upholstery seemed lower quality than in the Highlander, for instance, and I wasn't confident we'd do well in an accident.

The Yaris is a great choice for drivers who need quick, basic transportation at an affordable price.