The 2020 Toyota Yaris 1.5L gets 35 MPG combined. While not class-leading, that’s a respectable figure showing the Yaris’s main goal: affordable, reliable, and economical transportation. This isn’t a car for performance or luxury. It’s a practical choice for buyers on a budget who want low running costs and ease of use. Fuel economy is a key part of that value.

City and highway performance

The Yaris’s EPA estimates are 32 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. The city figure is a good reflection of what the Yaris does well. Its small size and nimble handling make it good at navigating busy city streets. The relatively responsive 1.5L engine, paired with the smooth six-speed automatic transmission (S6), is peppy enough for stop-and-go traffic. The 40 MPG highway rating can be achieved if you drive lightly and keep consistent speeds. Expect slightly lower numbers if you drive in hilly areas or against strong winds.

Long highway trips show the Yaris’s limits. The small engine struggles at higher speeds, and the cabin can get noisy. However, a Yaris mainly used for errands and commuting will consistently get fuel economy close to the EPA estimates.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Toyota Yaris at $1,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and local fuel prices.

A driver who mainly commutes in heavy traffic, accelerates fast, or idles a lot will probably spend more than $1,250. Someone who drives mostly on open roads, accelerates smoothly, and avoids idling could spend less. The EPA fuel cost is a helpful benchmark for comparing the Yaris’s running costs to other vehicles, explore all Toyota fuel economy data for further comparisons.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard testing method, but real-world MPG often varies. Yaris owners often report getting combined MPG in the low to mid-30s, close to the EPA estimate. Some drivers who focus on fuel efficiency have reported exceeding the 40 MPG highway rating on long trips, especially when keeping consistent speeds and avoiding fast acceleration. How you drive and the weather matter a lot.

Expect headwinds, hilly areas, and using the air conditioning a lot to hurt fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly because underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. The Yaris’s light weight and efficient engine mean that how you drive matters, and a smooth, careful approach will be rewarded.

How it compares

The Yaris competes in a crowded segment of subcompact cars, and fuel economy is an important factor. The Honda Fit (discontinued after 2020) was a strong competitor with a combined MPG of around 33, appealing to buyers looking for practicality and fuel efficiency. The Nissan Versa targets a slightly different buyer, often focusing on space and value while achieving similar MPG numbers near the low-30s. Although Toyota no longer sells the Yaris, drivers can still get a sense of the YARIS MPG across all years.

The Kia Rio and Hyundai Accent offer comparable fuel economy in the mid-30s MPG range. The Yaris stands out from some competitors because of its brand’s reputation for reliability and longevity, which appeals to buyers who will trade some interior space or features for peace of mind. These buyers might accept the Yaris’s slightly lower MPG because they expect it to last for years without issues.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Yaris has a small engine and automatic transmission, both of which can be used to improve its fuel economy. Avoid accelerating and braking quickly. The Yaris doesn’t have much power, so pushing it hard just wastes fuel. Instead, increase your speed slowly and watch traffic to avoid sudden stops.

Reduce idling. Even though the engine is small, idling still uses fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars are made for efficient restarts, and this can reduce fuel consumption, especially in cities.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever you can. Keeping a constant speed is more fuel-efficient than changing your throttle constantly, especially on long trips. Cruise control helps you avoid unintended speed changes that waste fuel.

Keep your tires inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.