I want to buy a Toyota car but I can't decide between the Yaris and the Prius (both 2007 models)?

• I know the Yaris is the cheapest on the line but I also heard that it's kinda clunky. Like you can hear the engine and they don't have side airbags. Also, I heard it's not very sturdy. I like the Yaris's looks but I liked the Prius's better. But the only negative review I've head of the Prius is that they don't have as much mileage as Toyota claims it to have. But do they still do a good job at it? Also, I am a university student. I know that the Yaris might be befitting (especially price-wise) and that the Prius is more of a family car but I don't want to gamble on cars and end up buying another car in just 3 years. I want to buy a good, efficient car even if it means an extra cost (and extra space) but that is sure to last maybe even 10 years as my loyal Subaru Legacy did. Please help me! Thank you!

• Answer:

  Yaris is a smaller car than the Prius, so that gives it better intrinsic efficiency due to size. Prius claws this back due to the fancy hybrid drivetrain. Although Prius has the edge on fuel efficiency in most cases, there are several realistic circumstances in which the smaller Yaris would be expected to outperform it. Really the final decision depends a lot on your own circumstances, for example, how much you can reasonably afford to spend at this time, how much and what type of driving you'll be needing to do, how many passengers you'd expect to have with you, etc. Life is unpredictable - maybe you'll need a family car within 10 years, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll move to get a job somewhere that personal car ownership is unnecessary. Maybe you'll have a company car. Maybe you'll need a much larger car. etc.... I'd suggest getting the car that feels most right for your current needs now, and for the reasonably certain parts of the future. If you think circumstances may change in 3 years, maybe get a good quality used car that will be expected to stay in good condition for 3 years, and then look at your options again when you have a clearer idea what needs will be after university. Even more efficient options will be available by then (or the current Prius will be cheaper as some owners move onto the next latest and greatest model). If you have the money spare to buy it, and expect to be needing to make a lot of use of it, then the Prius is a great car and I'm sure you'll love it. A smaller car may be more practical for a student lifestyle though, particularly if annual mileage will be relatively low, or you wish to avoid getting too big a mountain of debt during your time at university. Oh, and the Yaris isn't the cheapest on the line. Toyota's cheapest and smallest car is the Aygo... somewhat smaller than the Yaris, and with a tiny engine, and thus has somewhat better fuel economy than the Prius. Don't think they market it in the USA yet though.