The front wheel drive Toyota Yaris Hatchback was introduced for 2008 to compliment the sedan that debuted last year. The 2008 Toyota Yaris Hatchback features sporty front and rear spoilers, 15 inch wheels, and a CD/MP3 player, just like the sedan. The 3 door liftback version loses some rear passenger leg room in exchange for versatile sliding, reclining and fold down rear seats. This deceptively spacious subcompact economy car gets excellent gas mileage and upholds Toyota's reputation for reliability, safety and quality.

Its stout yet oddly attractive exterior is not likely to be confused with a luxury or high performance car any day soon, however, the Yaris Hatchback offers a well rounded subcompact. The flexible and versatile interior design is roomy enough for 4 adults, but with just 2 up front and the rear seat folded down, they could bring a lot of stuff with them. Its spacious (for an economy car) cabin doesn't affect its fuel efficiency though. EPA estimates are excellent for this gas sipping sport hatchback. Equipped with the manual transmission, EPA estimates 34 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The estimates for the automatic tranny are almost just as good, coming in at a close 34 city/39 highway.

There are 2 trims-the Base and the 'S' -both powered by the same peppy 1.5 liter 4 cylinder engine. The standard transmission for both models is a 5 speed manual; however a 4 speed automatic is optional for both models as well. Performance and handling are both adequate and the little 106 horsepower Yaris is actually pretty fun to run around in. Commuters will really appreciate the fuel savings and essential standard features such as air conditioning, adjustable front seats, a tilt steering wheel and intermittent windshield wipers. The 'S' models are a little sportier and also include a ground effects body kit and a CD/MP3 player with auxiliary audio jack. There are a few additional options for that are only available for the Yaris Hatchback, and there are plenty more that are available for both the sedan and the hatchback styles.

The new 2008 Yaris Hatchback will appeal to the budget-conscious consumer and it is one of the more likable hatchbacks available today. The Yaris Hatchback has struck a delicate balance between an affordable price, style, exemplary fuel economy, comparable category equipment, and notable performance for its class.