Good For: Refreshing minimalism. It has been a decade since I have driven a vehicle without power mirrors. Thanks to the Yaris, I got a refresher on all the little unnecessary features that become standard on even the cheapest cars now, adding weight and complexity. It's really not that hard to push the mirror in place just like you would the interior mirror. The steering wheel is just a steering wheel. If you want to change the radio volume then you will have to touch the radio. And it is a fine radio for an entry level car, complete with a big touch-screen, Bluetooth, iPod controls, and HD Radio. Windshield wiper? Only one blade needed.
Compromises: The only thing missing is a minimalist manual transmission, which seems to have disappeared from the entire 5-door lineup for 2016. Instead, we just have an old 4-speed automatic. It responds well and performs just like a good ol' 4L60, and is even reasonably fuel efficient. The price is also not very minimalist: $15,995 for a car that doesn't even have a remote or cruise control.
Overall reaction - None: The Yaris is Toyota's entry level vehicle. To me, Kias and the Nissan Versa offer more car for less money, but consumers may find the general feeling of higher quality worth the Toyota premium. At minimum, it is worth noting that even Toyota's cheapest car is efficient with interior space and will accomodate 4 adults.