5 Amazing Small Toyota Cars You’ll Love: A Fun and Professional Review

Looking for a small Toyota that fits your needs without breaking the bank? Whether you’re a city dweller in need of something compact or a new driver looking for reliability, Toyota has a range of small cars that tick all the boxes. In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into five of Toyota’s most impressive small cars, highlighting their strengths, quirks, and a few funny drawbacks. From hybrids to hatchbacks, we got you covered! We’ve included insights from Alex Collantes, the owner of Avenue Motors car dealership, to provide a professional but down-to-earth opinion on each model.

Why Choose a Small Toyota?

Small Toyotas are perfect for anyone who values fuel efficiency, reliability, and easy handling. They’re great for city driving, small parking spaces, and anyone who wants a car that’s easy to maneuver. Let’s be honest, not everyone needs a big SUV to feel cool. Sometimes a trusty small car is all you need.

Benefits of Owning a Small Toyota:

• Fuel Efficiency: Toyota is known for its hybrid technology which makes their small cars a great choice for saving on fuel.
• Reliability: Toyota’s reputation for durability means you’ll spend less time in the shop and more time on the road.
• Affordable Maintenance: Parts are easy to find and generally inexpensive compared to luxury brands.
• Resale Value: Small Toyotas hold their value exceptionally well.

Now let’s jump into our top picks!

Toyota Yaris – The Little Car That Could

The Toyota Yaris is like that overachieving kid in school. It’s small but mighty and always eager to please. Available as a hatchback or sedan the Yaris is a versatile and affordable option for those who want a no-nonsense car that gets the job done.

What Makes the Toyota Yaris Special?

Performance:

• Engine: The Yaris comes with a peppy 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that provides good acceleration without guzzling gas.
• Fuel Economy: It boasts an impressive 40 MPG on the highway which is perfect for long drives or city commutes.
• Handling: Small size makes it perfect for squeezing into tight parking spots and zipping through traffic.

Interior and Features:

• Compact Yet Comfortable: Despite its size the Yaris offers a surprising amount of legroom for front-seat passengers.
• Tech Features: Standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—no need for extra upgrades.
• Safety: Comes with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite including lane departure alert and automatic high beams.

Drawbacks (With a Twist):

• Tiny Trunk Space: If you’re planning on fitting a full band’s worth of instruments in there good luck! The Yaris trunk is about as spacious as a shoebox.
• Modest Power: The engine is fine but it won’t be winning any races anytime soon. Let’s just say it’s not exactly the sports car of your dreams.

Quote From Alex Collantes:

“Yaris is an excellent car for first-time drivers or anyone who wants reliable wheels without all the drama. Sure the engine won’t blow your hair back but that’s the point. It’s like the responsible older sibling of the car world.”

Toyota Corolla Hatchback – Sporty and Fun to Drive

The Corolla Hatchback is Toyota’s way of saying Hey we can be sporty too! This model adds a dash of style to the reliable Corolla line-up with a hatchback design that’s perfect for those who need a bit more cargo space without going full SUV.

Key Features of the Toyota Corolla Hatchback

Performance:

• Engine: Comes with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes it zippy and fun.
• Transmission Options: Available with a 6-speed manual for those who still enjoy the feel of a stick shift.
• Fuel Economy: Up to 41 MPG on the highway meaning fewer stops at the gas station.

Interior and Comfort:

• Stylish Design: Sporty interior with available leather seats and a premium feel.
• Infotainment: 8-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Easy to use and responsive.
• Space: The hatchback design offers more room for groceries luggage or whatever you need to haul around.

Drawbacks (Humor Alert):

• Rear Seat Space: Passengers in the back might feel like they’re in coach class on a budget airline. Legroom is tight unless you’re seating kids or very polite adults.
• Visibility: The hatchback design looks great but those chunky rear pillars can make parking feel like a game of hide and seek.

Quote From Alex Collantes:

“Corolla Hatchback is perfect for anyone who wants practicality but doesn’t want to drive something boring. It’s like that cool aunt who wears leather jackets but still bakes cookies. Reliable but with an edge.”

Toyota Prius C – The Hybrid That Won’t Hurt Your Wallet

The Toyota Prius C is the smallest and most affordable member of the Prius family. It’s the eco-friendly car for those who want to save on fuel without splurging on a fancy hybrid. This subcompact hybrid is a favorite among urban drivers.

What’s to Love About the Prius C?

Performance:

• Hybrid Power: The 1.5-liter hybrid engine isn’t about speed but it gets an impressive 46 MPG combined.
• City Driving: Perfect for urban settings where stop-and-go traffic won’t dent your fuel economy.

Features and Interior:

• Easy to Park: One of the smallest hybrids on the market making it a breeze to park in crowded cities.
• Tech: Standard with a 6.1-inch touchscreen which feels a bit small by today’s standards but it gets the job done.
• Interior Space: Surprisingly spacious for a small car with comfortable seating for four adults.

Drawbacks (With a Smile):

• Acceleration: Getting from 0 to 60 in this car feels more like a suggestion than a command. But hey it’s a hybrid not a dragster.
• Basic Interior: If you’re expecting luxury look elsewhere. It’s about as fancy as a plain donut but that’s what makes it charming.

Quote From Alex Collantes:

“The Prius C is ideal for city drivers who want to save money and feel good about their carbon footprint. Sure it’s not fast but you’re buying it to save gas not to race Lambos.”

Toyota C-HR – The Funky Crossover

Toyota C-HR is the crossover that wants to be different. With its bold styling and compact size it’s perfect for those who want something unique in the small SUV segment. It’s quirky fun and packs a surprising amount of tech into a small package.

Highlights of the Toyota C-HR

Performance:

• Engine: A 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that prioritizes fuel economy over speed. It’s efficient but don’t expect thrilling performance.
• Handling: Agile around corners making it feel sportier than your typical small SUV.
• Fuel Economy: Up to 37 MPG on the highway which is great for its class.

Interior and Technology:

• Bold Interior: The funky design extends inside with angular lines and unique styling touches.
• Tech Features: Standard with an 8-inch touchscreen Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Space: Despite its funky shape it’s quite practical with rear seats that fold flat for more cargo room.

Drawbacks (With a Grin):

• Visibility: The swoopy design looks cool but the rear window is like looking through a porthole. Hope you like the sound of parking sensors!
• Modest Power: The engine has all the thrill of a mid-afternoon nap. It’s not the car for those looking for a rush.

Quote From Alex Collantes:

“The C-HR is for people who want something that stands out but still offers Toyota’s reliability. It’s like the quirky art student of the Toyota family—unique and fun but not the most practical for everyone.”

Toyota GR86 – The Little Sports Car with Big Dreams

Okay maybe this isn’t your typical small Toyota but it’s compact and a blast to drive. The Toyota GR86 is the perfect sports car for those who don’t have a Porsche budget. It’s the car that lets you have fun without worrying too much about reliability or breaking the bank.

Why the GR86 Is a Standout

Performance:

• Engine: A 2.4-liter flat-four engine delivering 228 horsepower. This thing flies for its size.
• Handling: Rear-wheel drive and a low center of gravity make this car a joy to drive around curves.
• Transmission: Available in a 6-speed manual for maximum driving enjoyment.

Features:

• Driver-Centric: Everything inside is geared towards the driver with a minimalist and sporty feel.
• Tech: Standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto because even thrill-seekers need navigation.

Drawbacks (Funny Takes):

• Interior Noise: The engine noise is all part of the charm but on a long highway drive it can feel like a rock concert that won’t end. Earplugs optional.
• Trunk Space: You can fit maybe a bag of groceries or two. Perfect for those who like to live dangerously with just the essentials.

Quote From Alex Collantes:

“The GR86 is for those who want a bit of thrill in their daily drive. It’s fun fast and surprisingly affordable. Think of it as the rebellious teenager of Toyota’s lineup.”

Conclusion: Picking the Best Small Toyota for You

Choosing the right small Toyota depends on what you value most. Need fuel efficiency? Go for the Prius C. Want a sporty ride? The GR86 is calling your name. If you’re after a balance of practicality and fun the Corolla Hatchback might be your best bet.

Whatever your pick you’re getting a car that embodies Toyota’s core values of reliability and efficiency. For more insights into small Toyota models and to check the most reliable options visit this link.

Alex Collantes summed it up best: “Toyota has something for everyone in the small car category. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for something fun without the hassle you can’t go wrong with any of these models. Just pick the one that makes you smile.”

No matter which small Toyota you choose you’re in for a reliable ride with a hint of fun—perfect for everyday adventures!