The Toyota Yaris iA is a bit of a special case.

It wasn’t actually a Yaris in the traditional sense. It was a rebadged Mazda2, sold in North America from 2015 to 2018.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Rebadged Mazda2: The Yaris iA was essentially a Mazda2 with a Toyota badge. It shared the same platform, engine, and many of the same features.
• Compact Sedan: It was a compact sedan, offering a more spacious and practical interior than the traditional hatchback Yaris models.
• Engine: It came with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing around 106 horsepower.
• Transmission: It was available with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
• Features: It offered a decent level of standard features, including power steering, power windows, air conditioning, and a touchscreen infotainment system.

2017 Toyota Yaris iA

Why it was called a Yaris:

• Marketing Strategy: Toyota decided to use the Yaris name in North America to capitalize on the popularity of the Yaris brand.
• Filling a Gap: It helped Toyota offer a more affordable and fuel-efficient sedan option in the North American market.

Important Note: The Yaris iA was discontinued in 2018. It was replaced by the Toyota Yaris Sedan, which is a rebadged version of the Mazda2 sedan as well.

That’s a great question! While the Yaris iA was marketed as a Yaris, it was quite different from the standard Yaris models, both in terms of design and engineering. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

2017 Toyota Yaris iA

1. Platform and Design:

• Yaris iA: Built on the Mazda2 platform, it was a compact sedan with a more traditional three-box design (separate trunk, hood, and passenger compartment).
• Standard Yaris: Built on Toyota’s own platform, it was a hatchback with a more compact and sporty design.

2. Engine:

• Yaris iA: Powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, shared with the Mazda2.
• Standard Yaris: Offered various engine options, including 1.0-liter, 1.3-liter, and 1.5-liter engines, depending on the generation and market.

3. Interior:

• Yaris iA: Offered a more spacious and practical interior, with more legroom and headroom for rear passengers due to the sedan body style.
• Standard Yaris: Had a more compact interior, prioritizing space efficiency for a hatchback.

2017 Toyota Yaris iA

4. Features:

• Yaris iA: Offered a good level of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, but it wasn’t as feature-rich as some higher-trim Yaris models.
• Standard Yaris: Featured a range of standard and optional features, depending on the trim level and market.

5. Driving Experience:

• Yaris iA: Known for its agile handling and responsive steering, thanks to its Mazda-derived platform.
• Standard Yaris: Offered a more comfortable and practical driving experience, with a focus on fuel efficiency and urban maneuverability.

In Summary:

The Yaris iA was essentially a rebadged Mazda2, offering a more spacious and practical sedan option compared to the standard Yaris hatchback. While it shared the Toyota name, it had a different platform, engine, and overall design philosophy.

2017 Toyota Yaris iA Engine

Following a regular maintenance schedule is crucial for any car, but it’s especially important for the Yaris iA to help prevent common issues and ensure its longevity. Here’s a breakdown of recommended practices:

Engine and Transmission:

• Oil Changes: Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals, typically every 5,000-7,500 miles. Use the correct type and viscosity of oil for your engine.
• Spark Plugs: Replace spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, usually around 30,000-60,000 miles.
• Air Filter: Replace the air filter every 12,000-15,000 miles or as needed, depending on driving conditions.
• Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter every 30,000-60,000 miles or as needed.
• Transmission Fluid: Check the transmission fluid level regularly and have it flushed and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 60,000-100,000 miles.

Electrical System:

• Battery: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the battery is properly connected. Replace the battery as needed, typically every 3-5 years.
• Wiring Harness: Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage or fraying. Repair or replace any damaged wires promptly.
• Infotainment System: Keep the infotainment system software updated to address any known bugs or glitches.

Other Maintenance:

• Suspension: Have the suspension inspected regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Replace worn suspension components as needed.
• Brakes: Check the brake pads and rotors regularly and replace them as needed.
• Tires: Maintain proper tire pressure and rotate tires regularly to ensure even wear.
• Rust Prevention: Wash and wax the car regularly to help prevent rust.

Additional Tips:

• Owner’s Manual: Consult the owner’s manual for specific maintenance schedules and recommendations for your Yaris iA.
• Qualified Mechanic: Have your Yaris iA serviced by a qualified mechanic who is familiar with the car’s specific needs.
• Driving Habits: Avoid aggressive driving and harsh acceleration, as this can put extra strain on the engine and transmission.