7 February 2011
Toyota's release of the Yaris couldn't have been timelier, coinciding with the latest crash test figures released by the European crash test authority, Euro NCAP, in which the Yaris has performed exceptionally.
The well designed safety structure and bounteous airbag provisions have ensured the Yaris a maximum five out of five Euro NCAP safety rating.
Replacing the popular Echo, Toyota's baby is growing up, and a first impression of the new Yaris is that it's almost dimensionally too big to be brandished with the diminutively sounding 'super mini' class definition.
The Yaris, featuring funky lines penned at Toyota's design studio in Nice, France, is longer than the Echo by 110mm, 35mm wider and 20mm taller. The supplementary exterior figuration is teamed with a 90mm increase in wheelbase, to create an impressively roomier cabin.
The white five-door test vehicle we drove, with alloy wheels, a full Toyota body kit, artic blue headlamp bulbs and stylish wind deflectors - just some of the after sale options you can select - looked pretty smart.
The interior is contemporary with a vertical centre stack and digital instrumentation. The vertical positioning of the heater controls are easily adjusted, although the slightly unorthodox layout may take some getting used to. An almost three dimensional Digital instrument display is a carryover from the Echo.
As in the Echo, with strong sunlight entering through the rear window we still found it difficult to check your speed at a glance.
Overall though the interior is well designed, occupants have their pick of a plethora of cubby spaces and the superb use of space throughout proved to be to be one of the vehicle's highlights.
Seating was supportive, and legroom approached the Yaris' larger brother, Corolla in capacity. The rear seat can slide to accommodate taller occupants, and it folds easily, with the mere flip of two release levers.
When the seats are folded they dip towards the rear foot well to create a low and flat load floor. All this is done while still retaining a full size spare wheel.
The Yaris' on-road behaviour is better than many of its class compeers, displaying impressive noise, vibration and harshness dampening for this size of vehicle.
Steering feel is precise and linear, and handling is capable even during open road driving. Ride comfort is also among the best in class, with bumps and undulations being convincingly absorbed by both three and five door configurations.
Both engine options utilise variable valve timing (VVTi), and electronic throttle control to improve throttle response and fuel efficiency. Our fuel consumption test on the 1.5 litre engine resulted in a commendable average of 7.8 litres/100km (36.1 MPG) even more frugal use of fuel could be expected from the 1.3 litre if you were conscious of economy.
Despite being a willing powerplant, we feel the 1.3 litre is best suited to around town running.
Producing 64kW@6000rpm and 120Nm@4200 rpm, overtaking at highway speeds in the 1.3 litre required a considerable length of clear road. Should you frequent outside city limits regularly, the peppier 1.5 litre would be our recommended variant. The 1.5 generates 80kW@6000rpm and 140Nm@4200rpm and offers the best versatility over a variety of driving conditions.
Another good reason to opt for the larger engine Yaris is the luxury car rivalling seven airbags fitted as standard, including front, side, curtain airbags, as well as a driver's knee airbag.
Pity that airbag safety package isn't standard across the range, but it is available as a cost option for entry level Yaris. Look for the fully equipped safety package models in the second hand market.
In our opinion, the roominess of the interior, smart use of space and standout safety rating for its category is this little Toyota's foremost benefits. But the chassis's confidence, bulletproof reliability and Toyota's well stocked larder of accessories will further cement popularity.