A Capable Combination
Road Test
Toyota’s Yaris was the first small car range in Europe to feature full hybrid technology. Richard Gooding finds out if it offers much benefit over conventional petrol superminis
Think Toyota and Hybrid and thoughts invariably turn to the Prius. But, the Japanese company actually makes a range of hybrid‑powered cars. The Yaris supermini and its C-segment brother, the Auris, are also offered with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD).
The Yaris is Toyota’s best‑selling model in Europe and the hybrid version arrived in 2012. Just after our test period with GY63 KLZ, Toyota unexpectedly announced a refreshed model, but the hybrid powertrain is largely the same for both.
Hybrid Synergy Drive
The Yaris Hybrid uses a downsized version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain from the Auris and can run on just its 1.5-litre petrol engine, its batteries, or a combination of both. Total power output is 98bhp, while CO2 emissions are from 75g/km depending on specification. VED is £0 and combined cycle fuel consumption is a claimed 81mpg (the new-for-2014 model is officially rated at 85.6). A week of real-world driving conditions yielded 61mpg, which is still a considerable improvement on the Yaris’ non-hybrid rivals. The Honda Jazz Hybrid is the small Toyota’s only real comparable rival, but that costs more and is dirtier (104g/km). It’s also less economical.
The Yaris Hybrid will occasionally run on electric‑only power when driving around town.
The infotainment system displays fuel consumption graphs and regeneration/electric running operation information. Like the Auris, an ‘Energy Monitor’ shows in real-time what’s happening with the various drive options. Driving modes can be chosen too, depending on conditions; an ‘EV’ button puts the car into electric-only mode for short bursts of 1.2 miles or less, while an ‘ECO’ switch uses even less fuel when less power is needed. A rev counter‑like hybrid system display shows real‑time performance of the HSD, with ‘CHG’, ‘ECO’ and ‘PWR’ markings. Keep the needle in the ‘CHG’ zone while in electric mode, in the ‘ECO’ segment most of the time when driving with a combination of both powertrains, while ‘PWR’ will be most occupied when harsh acceleration is detected.
Regenerative braking
The Yaris Hybrid uses an e-CVT automatic gearbox with a mode-selective regenerative braking function. It’s so effective that it easily becomes second nature and going back to a car without it takes some getting used to.
The cabin is simply styled, nicely finished and comfortable. The test car’s ‘Icon Plus’ specification offered dual-zone climate control and cruise control among its trim level highlights. Externally, Yaris Hybrid models are distinguished from their lesser brethren by blue‑tinged Toyota badges, ‘Hybrid’ badges, LED rear lamps and daytime running lights.
Due to the relative low centre of gravity afforded by the HSD’s components, the Yaris Hybrid has little body roll and drives in a safe and predictable manner. Yes, it’s not exciting, but this car isn’t meant to be.
A likeable choice
Almost a third of Yaris models sold in the UK are hybrids, so the eco technology has certainly struck a cord with drivers. An 11 per cent BIK company car tax rating could be just one reason why the Yaris Hybrid is a popular choice. In conclusion, the Yaris Hybrid is a likeable car, packed with technology. With potentially low running costs and a fair asking price, it offers something genuinely different in the crowded small car market.
Toyota Yaris Hybrid Icon Plus 1.5 CVT Dr T+G
ENGINE: 1,497cc, four-cylinder petrol
CO2: 79g/km
MPG (combined): 81.0
VED: Band A, £0
BIK: 11%
PRICE (OTR): £16,595 (including VAT)
