The new generation Yaris

The new Toyota Yaris gets top scores for its surprisingly roomy interior, contemporary style and easy-to-drive character

The new Toyota Yaris benefits from a range of engineering and design refinements, as well as weight-saving measures and aerodynamic improvements, to cut fuel consumption and emissions, without hindering performance or power.

I test drove the 1.33 CVT Automatic, which has CO2 emissions of 118g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 55.4 mpg. I achieved an average fuel consumption of 52.5mpg on a 60 mile trip which combined both motorway and town driving and was impressed to get so close to the manufacturer’s figures without altering driving style.

If you want to achieve a more fuel-efficient driving style, the Yaris has an eco-indicator on the dash board which lights up under acceleration to show the most fuel efficient zone, and goes out if throttle use exceeds this zone.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
The automatic transmission is seamless, with good acceleration from standstill, smooth gear change and minimal noise. It can however be overridden, allowing the driver to operate the car using the gearshift or paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

While the Yaris looks compact on the outside, it is surprisingly roomy on the inside. The model I drove also boasts a panoramic roof, stretching the entire length of the car, which adds to the spacious feel and lets in additional light. The gadgets, buttons and dials are kept to a minimum, giving the interior a simple yet contemporary appeal. The seats are also very comfortable.

The reduced weight and increased aerodynamics make the Yaris incredibly nimble and easy to drive, especially for town driving.

The multi-media touch screen, with radio, satellite navigation and Bluetooth, was simple to operate. The screen also displays the rear camera image when reversing which makes it much easier and safer to reverse.

THE RANGE
The range also includes the 1.4-litre D-4D engine which benefits from 72.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 104g/km and a three-cylinder 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol which has fuel consumption of 58.9mpg and CO2 emissions of 111g/km.

All versions of the new Yaris are fitted with seven airbags as well as a comprehensive list of safety features, including whiplash-injury lessening seats, ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control.

AT A GLANCE

Toyota Yaris T Spirit 5 door 1.33 CVT Auto
Engine: 1.33
MPG: 55.4 mpg (combined)
CO2g/km: 118g/km
Insurance Group: 9E
Benefit in Kind: 10%
0-62mph: 12.3 secs
Price range: from £11,170

FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.toyota.co.uk