Characterful Yaris has the capability to succeed in fierce supermini scene
THE latest Toyota Yaris debuted in Scotland without the fanfare it probably deserved.
As a result, I’ve been sending anyone who has asked me to suggest a new supermini into their nearest Ford dealer for a Fiesta.
Now don’t get me wrong, I still rate the Fiesta highly. It is, beyond doubt, the sweetest handling little hatch on the road but Ford is having serious supply issues right now and, inevitably, that means buyers will start to look at the alternatives.
And, really, the new Yaris is where supermini seekers should now start their search.
It’s a cracking little car that has a charm reminiscent of the 1999 original but comes packed with all the latest safety and convenience kit you might expect plus a hugely efficient hybrid-only drivetrain paired up with an automatic gearbox.
The range spans through Icon, Design, Excel and GR Sport trims with it being the £24,420 latter of the quartet which I drove.
At a price tag knocking on the door of £25k, it’s a pricey little thing but it does have a presence that’s a nod to Toyota’s sporting halo models, namely 18-inch machined black alloy wheels, sportstuned suspension, rear spoiler, mesh grille and a pair of sport front seats.
There’s also a reversing camera, integrated and fully connected touchscreen multimedia unit, privacy glass, LED lights, keyless entry/start, automatic high beam assist and radar adaptive cruise control included as part of the deal.
Like the exterior, the inside of the Yaris has a character all of its own. The driving environment is a notable step up from the previous mode with better quality plastics and
“A cracking little car that has a charm reminiscent of the 1999 original.” fabrics. Comfort is exceptional and visibility is decent too, thanks to a deep rear window.
Rear cabin space is about average for the segment while boot space could be better, although there is a split height shelf for added practicality.
On the move, this latest Yaris continues to up the ante. The previous one really was a bland and disappointing drive but that’s no longer the case.
Built on a new platform, this fourth generation derivative demonstrated notably more composure across badly rutted twisting country roads and less road noise too. Yes, it’s still no Fiesta-chaser, but it’s more involving to drive than you might expect.
The three-cylinder engine is a cracker too. The 1.5-litre unit may have just 114bhp but it sounds great and performs well. Even the CVT gearbox (a transmission I usually detest) seems to work better with this powertrain and the result is an impressive 9.7 seconds 0-62mph time.
But undoubtedly of more importance in today’s world of ever-escalating energy costs is the economy. Toyota claim the car should return 57.6-64.2mpg and, during my time with the car, the trip computer refused to dip below 58mpg.
And there’s more good news for potential buyers for Toyota has recently revised its warranty package. After the standard three- year deal, Toyota will add another year of cover with every service undertaken at an approved Toyota dealer until the car is 10 years old.
All things considered, the Yaris is one tempting proposition.