Everything you need to know about the Toyota Yaris
The Toyota Yaris has undergone quite a transformation since it first launched to the South African market in 2005. Keen on the latest iteration of the Yaris? We cover the 2018 model which was discontinued recently, and cast an eye on the new GR Yaris as well.
In this article:
Who is the Toyota Yaris a good car for?
What is the Toyota Yaris like to drive?
Tech highlights in the Toyota Yaris
Similar cars to the Toyota Yaris
Is the Toyota Yaris a good car?
The Yaris debuted in South Africa in 2005. It remains one of Toyota's best-selling models globally, but was recently discontinued and replaced by the GR Yaris. This is the only Yaris we currently have on sale in South Africa, but a multitude of lightly-used models and older generations can be found on AutoTrader.
To satisfy hot-hatch enthusiasts, the limited-edition Toyota Yaris GRMN also appeared on the scene in 2017, but only 400 were built. It was powered by a supercharged 1.8-litre engine and had a top speed of 230 km. Read Chad's review on this specifc model, here.
In 2017, Toyota also introduced the Toyota Yaris Pulse - read our launch report, here.
The last iteration of the Yaris was launched locally in 2018 (Read our 2018 Yaris driving impression, here) and this article mainly focuses on this model range.
Who is the Toyota Yaris a good car for?
The Yaris started out as a small, entry-level hatchback but by the end of its lifespan in SA, it had become decidedly large and sophisticated, competing with the likes of the Volkswagen Polo and Hyundai i20. The Yaris is good for anyone and everyone seeking reliable, quality motoring.
Is the Toyota Yaris a good first car?
The latest Yaris is an excellent first car for those who can afford it. Previous models may be more within financial reach of students, or look for a 2020 demo model.
Is the Toyota Yaris a good family car?
With features like ABS with EBD, brake assist, vehicle stability control and hill-assist control, the Yaris is the ideal city (and beyond) runabout for families, but doesn't shy away from highways either, thanks to its peppy 1.5-litre engine with 79kW and 140Nm. Two airbags are standard across the board, while Sport variants have additional knee- and curtain airbags.
Space wise, the Yaris offers decent legroom on the rear bench and a well-sized boot of 310 litres.
Is there a Toyota Yaris hybrid?
In 2012, a Toyota Yaris hybrid model appeared on the scene, promising fuel consumption figures as low as 3.6 litres per 100 km. The hybrid model is no longer on sale in SA, but there are a few used hybrid models on AutoTrader.
What’s it like to drive?
Reviewer's opinion
Various under-the-skin enhancements, along with its changed dimensions, makes the new Yaris a far more accomplished driver's car than its predecessor could ever hope to be. It starts with a stiffer bodyshell, and then adds a re-engineered suspension and re-calibrated power steering, to end up with a surprisingly dynamic little package. The suspension tuning strikes a near-perfect balance between compliance and control, giving a well-judged compromise between ride comfort and handling dynamics. It’s stable and planted on the road yet goes around corners eagerly, and rides very well in the process. - Martin Pretorius, AutoTrader
What does it look like?
Style
The last iteration of Yaris sports a generic look, without the Toyota badging one wouldn't have guessed that it's a Toyota, probably. In my opinion, there's a little too much going on in front, but the Yaris has at least grown bigger and there's more room inside. Previous generations of the Yaris had a more distinctive, recognisable look.
Exterior
Interior
What is the Toyota Yaris like inside?
The interior of the Yaris is smart, ergonomic and well-executed. It looks and feels like quality. Sport models (pictured) spearhead the line-up and are the best equipped.
The operation zone is furnished in piano black trim with chrome-plated switchgear – which exude a sense of style and solidity. The lower section also features two cup holders, softly illuminated by an LED mood-light. Both front and rear seats have been designed with comfort and ergonomics in mind, whilst not detracting from the interior flair. -Toyota SA
Standard features in the Toyota Yaris
- The entry-level Xi models feature Keyless entry and push-button start, four-speaker audio system with USB and Bluetooth functionality, multi-information display, electrically-adjustable exterior mirrors, front power windows, electric power steering and manual air-conditioning.
- Xs models add automatic lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, retractable exterior mirrors, rear power windows, leather steering wheel and gear knob, steering switches as well as LED daytime running lights.
- The Cross variant is based on the Xs grade and inherits roof rails, black side moulding, brushed metal apron treatment (front and rear) and black over fenders
- The flagship Sport model (see photos) features a host of sporty enhancements to create a visually striking package, such as the red-stitched leather steering wheel and gear knob, 2 additional speakers (6 in total), High-definition ‘Optitron’ instruments, Leather seats, Climate Control (auto aircon), Front fog lamps, Projector headlamps, LED rear taillights, Rear boot spoiler, Shark-fin antenna, Side skirts, Front and rear spoilers, Dark metallic front grille, Projector headlamps, and a red accent stripe. (Source: Toyota SA)
Tech highlights
- Smartphone Integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Embedded Satnav
Price and specs
Which is the cheapest Toyota Yaris?
The most affordable Yaris is the Xi trim, but since they're not on sale as new models anymore, we've looked at our used car listings. To give you an idea, a pre-loved Yaris 1.5 Xi (2020) with 14 000 kilos on the odometer, goes for about R235 000.
Search the latest new and used Toyota Yaris models in South Africa >
How much does it cost?
Our most expensive listing of the latest 'regular' Yaris is a 2020 model in Xs trim (auto) with 14 000 km on the clock, for R289 900.
If you're keen on the new Toyota GR Yaris, you had better have your finances sorted: The Toyota GR Yaris 1.6T GR-Four will cost you R606 600 and the GR-Four Rally is priced at R715 600 (see image below).
Search the latest new and used Toyota GR Yaris deals in South Africa >
Alternatively, why not opt for a used Toyota Yaris 1.5 Pulse instead? I am a huge fan of the Pulse's styling and layout. And you won't pay more than R200k for one with relatively low kilos - plus, they were only in circulation for about a year before the new line of Yaris models were released.
Search for used Toyota Yaris Pulse models on AutoTrader, here >
*Pricing correct at time of publishing and subject to change without notice.
The new Toyota GR Yaris
Competitors
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Volkswagen Polo Vivo
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Renault Clio
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Hyundai i120
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