TOYOTA YARIS SELF CHARGING HYBRID REVIEW

EV Channels Review

The Toyota Yaris Hybrid is presented as an economical "self-charging" supermini, but the review highlights significant caveats. While praised for its practicality, including ample boot space and comfortable seating, its performance is a major drawback. The 1.5-liter engine paired with a CVT gearbox results in sluggish acceleration after initial get-up-and-go, and the gearbox itself is described as noisy and a "real drag" at higher speeds. The reviewer strongly disputes the "self-charging" marketing, demonstrating that the battery is primarily recharged by the petrol engine, not through genuine energy harvesting. Real-world fuel economy averaged between 47-52 mpg, falling short of advertised figures, and costing £140 in petrol over 1000 miles. While acknowledged as a potentially good option for those unable to plug in, the reviewer ultimately finds the driving experience boring and prefers a traditional petrol car or a fully electric vehicle due to the Yaris Hybrid's compromises in performance and its misleading marketing.