The 2015 Toyota Yaris is representative of the third-generation version of Toyota's successful supermini that saw service in the UK between 2011 and 2020. That success came despite very tough competition in the form of hugely popular models including the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Polo. True, there was nothing hugely interesting or unique about this version of the Yaris, but it marked itself out for its incredible reliability and its super-cheap running costs, even by the standards of the class. It’s very light on fuel and cheap on insurance, making it a great first car.

Strengths:

Hugely reliable
Will cost a pittance to run
Reasonably roomy and practical

Weaknesses:

A bit dull in several ways
Infotainment is very dated indeed
Comparatively expensive as a used buy

Is the 2015 Toyota Yaris better than the 2015 Ford Fiesta?

If you’re looking for reliability and dependability from your small car, then you bet it will. It’s not that the Ford was bad on that score, it’s just that the Toyota is incredibly strong, scoring sky-high marks in any given reliability survey you care to mention. If you’re looking for style or driving pleasure, though, then you’ll be much better off with the Ford.