A Hen's Tooth For Sale: 2018 Toyota Yaris SE (With a Manual Transmission)

2018 Toyota Yaris SE. Photo via Lexus of Seattle 

I've found a hen's tooth. A rarity. This is a 2018 Toyota Yaris SE (located at Lexus of Seattle). It was the only Yaris model to come with this front and rear facia. That's right, it only appeared for one year, as the Yaris hatchback was discontinued for 2019, only to reappear as a rebadged Mazda2 for 2020, and then genuinely made extinct. To make this Yaris rarer, it's got the factory two-tone black-and-blue paint scheme. To make it a genuine hen's tooth? It's a five-speed manual. And just in case that wasn't enough, it's located in the Pacific Northwest—an area that didn't get allocations of these with manual transmissions. It's like finding a rare animal that happened to migrate out of its natural habitat. (Now re-read this in a David Attenborough voice.)

Top 5 Mitsubishi Mirage Myths Debunked

Back in 2017, we sold our 265 horsepower Subaru WRX for a 78 horsepower Mitsubishi Mirage ES Hatchback. Crazy, eh? Well, this summer will mark four years of Mirage ownership. Despite the Mirage being on sale in the U.S. since 2014, there are still people out there that have questions about these cars. From roadworthiness to fuel economy, and other ownership items, I decided to debunk some Mitsubishi Mirage myths. 

Meet the 414,000 Mile Mitsubishi Mirage

 

People criticize the Mitsubishi Mirage for being inexpensive, having three cylinders, and being basic. But guess what? The Mirage is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid gasoline-powered vehicle in the U.S. Oh, and guess what? It's one heck of a runner. 

Quick Drive: Hyundai Veloster N w/Performance Package

Photo by Doug Berger

Hyundai revamped its funky Veloster for 2019. It maintained much of the said funkiness from the previous model while offering up new style and new features. We always enjoyed the Veloster Turbos we've driven, as reviewed in the past. When the latest generation was announced, we were told a high-performance model was going to come out in its new N lineup. I got to drive the Veloster N with the Performance Package, and must say that it's at the top of the hot hatch game.

Review: 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback

When I heard Toyota was bringing back a Corolla hatchback, admittedly, I was intrigued. After all, I’m a hatchback guy. They’re practical, sporty, and I simply prefer the style. But with my intrigue, I prepared for reality to kick in. I assumed the new Corolla Hatchback would probably be equipped with the same-old 2ZR-FE 1.8-liter found in the  Corolla sedan and mated to a fun-killing CVT. It’d be solid but pedestrian method of transportation. Meh.

I'm here to say that I assumed wrongly.

Review: 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Sport

Photo by Mercedes Lilienthal

I generally feel I’m aware of the latest automotive offerings as they hit the market, or even before they come out--whether they’re not small cars. However, while at the Portland International Auto Show this winter, my friend, Tuan, pointed out the latest iteration of the Hyundai Elantra GT. We drove the previous version of Hyundai’s GT hatchback back in 2013, and despite the GT moniker, we found it less than sporty.

We Bought a Mitsubishi Mirage. Here's Why.

Well, we added yet another small car to the Subcompact Culture stable ... er ... carport. We bought a 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage. And we'll be selling our 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX. Before you have us committed to an asylum, read on.

Subcompact Showcase: Toyota Yaris Overlander

Let's face it—the Toyota Yaris isn't known for its ability to be a "soft roader" or overland travel rig. However, I spied this on Facebook and had to learn more.

Toyota Yaris GRMN Specs and Photos

We've been hearing about the hot 2017 Toyota Yaris GRMN for months now, but it has officially debuted at the Geneva International Motor Show. We've got some specs:

New Ford Fiesta ST Loses a Cylinder, Gains Performance

Ford has debuted its next-generation Fiesta ST, or as it's affectionately known, the FiST. The new FiST will come with a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine—down one piston from the last iteration. However, power is reported to be 200 PS, which translates to 197 hp, the same as it is now. Torque is going up to 290 Nm (214 lbs/ft) from 202 lbs/ft. Ford is anticipating a 0-62 time of 6.7 seconds.

High Performance Yaris GRMN to Get Supercharged 1.8-Liter Engine

Word is out that the upcoming Yaris hot hatch will actually be powered by a supercharged 1.8-liter engine and will make 210 horsepower vs the previously reported turbocharged 1.6-liter mill.

The Chevrolet Spark ACTIV is Ready to Crossover

North America is in love with the crossover, or at least the idea of a crossover. Ideally, they're more rugged than a wagon, less truck-like than an SUV. And as we've seen, compact crossovers are selling like hotcakes. Small, slightly lifted hotcakes with additional plastic body cladding.

Now Chevy has decided to try something a bit different: A "trail-inspired" version of its front-wheel-drive subcompact Spark, which will be called the Spark ACTIV. The Spark already sells surprisingly well for a subcompact, so maybe a butched-up version will sell even better?

Mitsubishi Debuts 2017 Mirage at LA Auto Show

Mitsubishi has debuted its refreshed 2017 Mirage subcompact at the 2015 LA Auto Show. And yes you read that right, this is a 2017 model; the company is foregoing the MY2016 and skipping right to '17.

Review: 2015 MINI Cooper S 4-Door Hardtop

By Andy Lilienthal

If you’re familiar with the MINI brand, you’ll know that they’ve been trying a host of different formulas in order to entice buyers. Coupes, convertibles, roadsters, subcompact crossovers, and now this: The four-door MINI. It’s not a Countryman crossover, it’s a five-door hatchback. It’s offered in front-wheel drive only in both Cooper and tarted-up Cooper S trim. Our tester is the hot Cooper S.

Since its inception, MINI has always been upscale, and pricing has always said this, despite the car's subcompact size. And while I usually wait until the end of the review to mention pricing, our MINI Cooper S four-door hardtop has a sticker price of $36,050. Now, this seems like a lot of money for a little car, and by little I mean physically small. At least at first.

Review: 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI S

By Andy Lilienthal

The Golf GTI has always been synonymous with great driving dynamics, a reasonably low cost of entry, and loads of fun. Volkswagen Golfs with those three letters have always been rewarding to drive; it's been a winning formula for VW since 1976. It's also not a formula that gets messed with much. And frankly, VW knows how to execute the FWD performance hatchback.

Review: 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport Limited

By Andy Lilienthal

The Impreza is a people’s car. There’s a model for nearly everyone, whether it’s a base 2.0i model, which can still be had with hubcaps; an up-level Premium or Limited model; the lifted XV Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek Hybrid; the super-fast WRX sedan (don’t dare call it an Impreza anymore, however); the Sport Premium and this model: The Sport Limited, which is the top-of-the-line model, complete with sporty side skirts, leather, all of Subaru’s latest tech, and more. After three model years, Subaru is adding some new bits to keep its popular AWD wonder wagon fresh.

Note the front fascia on the 2014 Impreza Sport (white) vs. the 2015 Impreza Sport (Dark Gray).

On the outside, the '15 Impreza’s most notable changes come at the front fascia, which has a different bumper, grille, and headlights than '12–'14 versions. Note the comparison above. You'll see the chrome bits on the '15 Impreza. Frankly, I think I prefer the earlier front end, but the revision isn't bad. I, however, am not a big fan of chrome on modern cars. The exterior mirrors also now feature turn signals, by the way. Subaru says the styling changes were done so it more closely resembles the larger Legacy. Other than this, you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference between a pre-'14 and a '15.

Inside, however, there are some notable and welcomed changes. Most apparent is the new 7.0 infotainment system which is heaps better than the older version. The large, vibrant touchscreen features all the latest tech and includes an easy-to-use and wonderfully functional navigation system with bright, brilliant maps. Plus, the stereo is now quite good. Previous models didn’t seem to get loud enough; this one is plenty loud. All trims levels now get a rear-view camera, and this Sport Limited trim gets Subaru’s EyeSight tech, which uses cameras mounted in the top-center of the windshield for lane departure, pre-collision, and adaptive cruise control (you can note them in the first photo). There’s also now a color LCD screen in the gauge cluster for various bits of info, such as fuel economy.

The interior remains comfortable, but the heated leather front seats feel flat and have about as much bolstering as a padded lawn chair. Our tester also came with Bluetooth, push-button start, and an optional $2,795 power moon roof.

Another thing that hasn’t changed is the 2.0-liter  boxer four-cylinder engine that churns out 148 hp and 145 ft/lbs of toque. The only available transmission on the Sport Limited is the CVT, which is, of course, mated to Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. This engine/transmission combo makes the car feel heavy and a bit lumbering upon acceleration. Also, and more concerning, was the fact that when I put the car into drive from reverse, there was a moment of hesitation before it’d begin forward progress. I don’t remember previous CVT-equipped Imprezas doing this, so perhaps it was just our tester. This wasn’t an isolated incident, either; it happened every time. Full-throttle acceleration yields a lot of noise and not too much scoot. This car could benefit from another 20 horsepower. And in fact, the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, which we reviewed last year, provided that extra oomph (160 hp vs. 148 hp; 163 ft/lbs vs 145 ft/lbs of torque) this car has. Cornering is full of grip, as expected, thanks to the AWD and 17-inch wheels and tires. I also found the car to have quite a bit of road noise despite added enhancements to quiet the cabin. I blame the 50-series tires.

In terms of fuel economy, the car is still rated at a very respectable 27 city, 36 highway, and 31 combined MPG. Our week with the car returned nearly 29 MPG in mixed use—good for an AWD vehicle.

Whether you’re looking for an AWD vehicle or not, the Impreza is a solid compact car choice no matter which way you look at it. Yes, I’d like more power, more seat bolstering, and a bit quitter cabin, but despite these shortcomings, the Impreza has a lot going for it. Our loaded test model came in at a reasonable $26,885 including destination. While a co-worker pointed out you could get a much faster, sportier WRX for that amount, you don't get leather and some of the other luxury goods you get on the Sport Limited (at least not for that price). You also don't get one other thing: a hatchback.

THE BASICS: 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport Limited
MSRP As Tested:	$26,885
Engine:	2.0-liter flat four cylinder
Transmission:	CVT
Horsepower:	148
Torque:	145 lbs/ft
Curb Weight:	3,131lbs.
Wheelbase:	104.1"
Overall Length:	174"
Suspension:	F: Struts w/lower L-arm; stabilizer bar R: Double Wishbone
Brakes:	F: Disc w/ABS R: Disc w/ABS
Wheels:	17" alloy
Tires:	205/50R17
Range & MPG:	27 city, 36 highway, 31 combined

2016 Scion iM

By Andy Lilienthal

Have you been missing the Toyota Matrix? Have you been pining for a Corolla hatchback? Then Scion might have just what you're looking for. This compact five-door hatchback, called the iM, is essentially a Corolla hatchback, but wears a Scion badge.

Scion's press release says it only comes in one spec: Fun. I suppose if you find the Corolla fun, you'll love the iM. The powertrain specs are pure Corolla: 137 hp 1.8-liter mated to either a six-speed manual or a CVT. The chassis, which the press release says is based on the Scion tC, features a fully independent suspension and 17" wheels wrapped in 225/45/17 tires. These do differ from the Corolla's torsion rear beam suspension.

On the outside, the iM wears a unique aero kit, but there are definite Corolla styling cues. The inside also has some Corolla-esque cues, but features a premium interior. We did like the latest Corolla interior, however.

The iM is essentially a rebadged Toyota Auris, which is essentially a Corolla hatchback. Toyota has done a very good job updating the Corolla, so the Auris might be a nice mainstream hit for Scion--something the brand desperately needs.

The iM should be a versatile, agile, reliable, sporty-looking hatchback. However, like the upcoming Scion iA, it is a departure from the funky styling of previous Scion models, such s the xB, xA, and xD. I think we can officially say the days of boxy Scions are over.

Full press release below:

Review: 2015 Toyota Yaris SE

By Andy Lilienthal

Ah, the Yaris—Toyota’s smallest car. We own a 2007 hatchback. In some ways the 2015 is pretty much the same car we have despite the facelift. It’s got essentially the same chassis. It’s still powered by the 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE engine that also powered the 2000–2005 Toyota Echo, the 2004–2007 Scion xB and xA, and the 2007–2015 Yaris. This engine, which makes 106 horsepower and 103 ft/lbs of torque, has Toyota’s VVT-i variable valve timing system, but it’s not exactly on the cutting edge of technology. It is, however, tried, true, and nearly bulletproof. The same could be said for the available transmissions: a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. In a day in which most manufacturers are offering automatics with up to nine gears in their autos (or offering CVTs), Toyota still uses its steadfast four-speed auto. So why the old-school powertrain? Maybe Toyota believes that that if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Then again, maybe they think buyers in this segment aren't worried about the engine/transmission tech, rather, they're more inclined to offer up a super-reliable car with decent fuel economy. As I said, it's been around a while, so it's proven tech. It's also in the Toyota parts bin, so it won't cost much to make. Whatever the reason, Toyota is betting on the fact its least expensive car will bring buyers to dealerships. So while it’s the same-old Yaris in many respects, there are some noticeable changes, just not to the powertrain or suspension. Fun fact: This Yaris is made in France, not Japan.

We Checked Out a 2015 Toyota Yaris SE

We dropped off our 2007 Toyota Yaris at the dealership today for some recall work. While there, we checked out a 2015 Toyota Yaris SE, the top-of-the-line model. We didn't drive it, but we did take a look at the exterior and sat in it. 

When I first saw the revised Yaris, I didn't think I liked the front end. With a gaping mouth from the Lexus style book and black fu manchu-like grille detail, the Yaris definitely has a unique front fascia. However, in person the car didn't look as bad as I thought. In fact, in white it had that Storm Trooper look. The headlights were blacked-out and featured projector-beams with LED accents. There is a lot going on, but its not as offensive as I had originally thought. Both Mercedes and I liked the car's back end with its center-mounted reverse lights and basic lines. We both actively dislike the ugly 16-inch alloy wheels. 

The Yaris interior keeps getting better with the subsequent revisions. Our 2007 Yaris liftback, while loaded with storage spaces and practicality, features a ton of hard plastic surfaces. When the Yaris was refreshed in 2012, the interior got a big upgrade. And for 2015, the interior feels even better. There's a mix of hard and soft surfaces, interesting lines, and decent functionality. However, some things, such as the circular vents felt a bit cheap. Also, while the chunky steering wheel felt great in the hand, there's an arms-out driving position—a telescoping wheel would've been good here. Also, the rear seats, unlike our 2007, have headrests that do not retract into the seatback. Thankfully, they can be removed, but when up they partially obscure visibility. Speaking of the back seat, it feels slightly small compared to some other cars in its class. The front seats, however, have an attractive, upscale pattern and have good side bolstering. We did notice the French-built Yaris (yes, 2015 models are made in France) felt very solid. All the doors, including the liftback, closed very solidly. 

Overall, the new Yaris SE looks like a fairly attractive package if you're only looking at the exterior and the interior. If you start looking at the specs, you might be a bit underwhelmed. The car is still powered by the old 106-horsepower 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE engine, which also powered cars including the 2000-2005 Toyota Echo, 2004-2006 Scion xB and xA, and every Yaris since 2007. A spring chicken, it isn't. It is, however, tried and true, dependable, and still capable of getting 37 MPG. We've never been able to get the five-speed manual transmission and the SE package in the Northwest region. Oddly, according to Toyota.com, we now can get a manual transmission with the SE package for 2015, but only only with Magnetic Gray Metallic paint. All other hues come with the automatic only. That's weird. 

The sticker price on this fully loaded Yaris is $18,229, which seems pricey for only 106 hp and a four-speed automatic. That being said, it's likely the Yaris will continue to be super reliable, and it does look different than many other subcompacts, and it's plenty practical. We haven't driven a '15 yet, but I'll bet it drives a lot like previous Yaris models, since it has essentially the same chassis as it did in 2007, although Toyota has made some upgrades to the chassis and suspension. We do look forward to getting behind the wheel of the latest Yaris to see if those changes are noticeable. 

Review: 2014 Fiat 500e

Words by Andy Lilienthal. Photos by Mercedes Lilienthal

The Fiat 500e is one of the latest small cars to jump on the electric car bandwagon. Currently available only in California and Oregon, the 500e features 87 miles of range, Italian good looks, and plenty of character.

On the outside, the 500e looks very similar to any other Fiat 500. However, subtle things, such as the dimpled front and rear fasciae, side skirts, and unique wheels are giveaways that this subcompact is powered by gigawatts not gasoline. There are a few interior cues too, such as the pushbutton gear selector, that set this 500 apart from gas burners. But other than that, the 500e really just looks like, well, a Fiat 500.