Freshened 2015 Toyota Yaris still playing catch-up with Versa

Say the words "Toyota" and "Consumer Reports" in the same sentence, and the most jaded cynic would suggest that there's a 24-hour love fest between the two organizations. Yeah, we've heard that one, too. But here's where the sarcasm runs into reality: The Toyota Yaris, the company's impressively fuel-efficient and least expensive car, falls short of making the cut as a CR-recommended model. Way short.

For 2015, Toyota has made several revisions to freshen the Yaris and address some critical shortcomings. The most visible changes are the revamped grille and some interior enhancements, but beneath the sheetmetal, the suspension has been retuned to improve ride and more sound isolation has been fitted. What hasn't changed is the basic powertrain. The Yaris is propelled by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 106 horsepower and hooked up to either a five-speed manual or vastly outdated four-speed automatic.

Certainly fuel economy–at 32 mpg overall–and impressive reliability are among the Yaris's highpoints. But those facets are not enough to mask glaring flaws such as the awkward driving position, jumpy ride, and relentless noise.

The Yaris's engine still assaults your ears when it strains on hills or when merging. Incessant road noise makes the car feel tinny and insubstantial. While Toyota claims that the freshening gets thicker glass and better sound-deadening materials in an effort to make it quieter, we didn't notice an appreciable difference over the last Yaris we tested.

Learn about the competition at our small car buying guide.

Soft-touch dash and door trim are a token gesture, but it doesn't address the car's driving position. With a steering wheel that's too far away and doesn't telescope, the Yaris forces a stretched-arms and bent-knees driving position that's sure to tire anyone even after a short drive. Needless to say, that's not helped by the nervous and jittery ride. Fortunately, handling has become a touch more responsive.

The base Yaris three-door L hatchback starts at $15,670 (with $825 destination fee). The range tops out with the five-door SE at $18,445.

If you want to buy a new subcompact, we think the spacious Honda Fit is a much better choice. Another alternative is the Nissan Versa Note. Honda charges $17,905 for a Fit LX with an automatic transmission. A decently equipped Note goes for $17,435.

We think there's no reason you should be saddled with a car payment stretching out for several years when the car is a chore to live with.

Our advice: Take the Yaris off your list if you're looking for good, cheap, fuel-efficient transportation. Perhaps the smartest buy would be to find a two-year-old Prius instead—great fuel economy and top-notch reliability in a much better all-around package.

—Mike Quincy