Good Deals Offered on Toyota Yaris

When it comes to interior comfort and safety, it's a definite yes. But what might not be so obvious is how little the subcompact delivers in mpg compared to compacts, mostly due to overtaxed and under-sized engines.

Plus, the subs' trump card -- low cost -- can also be a tough sell when compared to larger used vehicles that are similarly priced.

Toyota's Yaris subcompact has all those issues to overcome, plus the residual effect of Toyota's tarnished quality reputation. (Toyota has suffered an almost 38 percent drop in year-to-date sales when compared to last year.) In an effort to turn things around, Toyota has bumped up its incentive onslaught, which now includes Yaris.

Now through August 2nd, Toyota is offering 0% financing for up to 60 months on the Yaris. Or, buyers can take advantage of $500 - $1,000 customer cash, depending on the region. Some regions are also offering military and college bonus cash.

While offering the best fuel economy in its class, Yaris falls short in passenger and cargo room, performance and price (and perhaps even consumer trust), when compared to the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa.

And watch out when domestic newcomer Ford Fiesta joins the fray. Toyota may need to continue its free financing in order to compete.