The 2017 Toyota Yaris iA 1.5L gets 35 MPG combined. This simple number means affordable transportation for a specific type of driver. This car isn’t for hauling families or impressing clients. It’s for people who want a reliable car and prioritize budget, and the Yaris iA’s efficiency is a key reason to buy it.

City and highway performance

The Yaris iA gets 32 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the car’s ability to perform well in different driving conditions. The city MPG reflects how well the engine handles stop-and-go traffic, while the highway number shows how little fuel it needs for longer drives. The 1.5L four-cylinder pulls respectably given its size, and the smooth six-speed automatic (the only transmission available) helps to keep it in the best part of the powerband. Well-chosen gear ratios help it cruise comfortably and efficiently at highway speeds, so you don’t have to constantly push the engine and burn extra fuel. Getting 40 MPG on the open road means fewer stops at the gas station during road trips or long commutes.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Toyota Yaris iA is $1,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is important for buyers watching their budgets, because it shows the long-term running costs. A car might have a low price, but high fuel costs can quickly cancel out those savings. For many Yaris iA owners, seeing that $1,250 number provides peace of mind.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standard, but real-world fuel economy can change depending on driving habits, road conditions, and the weather. Quick acceleration, hard braking, and not keeping tires properly inflated can all hurt fuel efficiency. Weight also matters. Carrying heavy cargo or passengers regularly will reduce MPG. However, with careful driving and proper maintenance, most Yaris iA owners can achieve or even beat the EPA estimates. The car is lightweight and aerodynamically efficient, which helps keep consistent fuel economy. For a better picture, check out YARIS MPG across all years submitted by owners.

How it compares

In the subcompact segment, the Yaris iA (essentially a rebadged Mazda2) does well against others. The Honda Fit, known for its large interior, gets around 33 MPG combined with an automatic, a little less than the Yaris iA. The Nissan Versa, another cheap option, gets similar fuel economy, but has less driving fun. The now-discontinued Ford Fiesta SFE (Super Fuel Economy) used to get around 36-37 MPG combined, but you can’t buy it new anymore. The Yaris iA’s 35 MPG offers a good balance of fuel efficiency, reliability, and a surprisingly fun driving experience for a car in its class. Drivers looking for low running costs will also want to examine all Toyota fuel economy data, including hybrids like the Prius and Corolla Hybrid. Keep in mind those are more expensive.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth, steady acceleration helps maximize fuel economy in the Yaris iA. Avoid quick starts, as this uses extra fuel. Increase speed gently, letting the automatic transmission shift easily. This can noticeably improve your MPG, especially in the city.

Proper tire inflation is important for fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly (at least once a month) and inflate them to the pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s door. This can save you money and extend the life of your tires.

Remove extra weight from the car. Carrying too much cargo in the trunk or passenger area adds load, hurting fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, like sporting equipment or tools. A lighter car needs less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, improving MPG.

Avoid idling too much. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars like the Yaris iA start quickly, and restarting uses less fuel than idling.