A car enthusiast, @theinternalledger, has gone viral on TikTok with a video arguing that the Toyota Yaris is the perfect starter vehicle for new drivers. With over 56,000 views, the video has sparked a lively discussion among commenters, with many agreeing with his assessment. The creator cites the Yaris’s affordability, reliability, and low insurance costs as major advantages. Used models can be found for around £1,000 to £2,000 (approximately $1,250 to $2,500 USD), making it an attractive option for first-time buyers.
The Yaris’s durability is also a major selling point, with @theinternalledger joking that it’s so robust, you could “put vegetable oil in there and it will still work.” He notes that the car’s modest 1.3-liter engine and low insurance group make it an ideal choice for young drivers who often face higher premiums. While the car may be small and not the fastest, he argues that it’s perfect for a 17-year-old who doesn’t need to rush around.
The Toyota Yaris was discontinued in the US after the 2020 model year due to the high cost of engineering it to comply with American safety and emissions regulations. However, the 2020 Yaris was well-received by critics, with Motor1 finding it to be a fun-to-drive subcompact that checked many boxes for budget-conscious buyers. The car’s safety features were somewhat of a mixed bag, but it did receive a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
There is currently some speculation about whether the Yaris will return to the US market, with some dealers expressing interest in selling the car again. With the Mitsubishi Mirage discontinued and the Nissan Versa being the only new car starting under $20,000, there is untapped demand for affordable small cars in America.
Commenters on the video had mixed opinions about the Yaris, with some praising its reliability and spaciousness, while others preferred more stylish options like BMW. @theinternalledger’s video has sparked a lively discussion about the best first-time car, and it will be interesting to see if Toyota responds to the demand for a new Yaris model. Overall, the Toyota Yaris is a reliable and affordable option for new drivers, and its durability and low insurance costs make it an attractive choice for those on a budget.