The current Toyota Yaris has come under a fair amount of criticism since its introduction in 2018, with most complaints centred around the fact that the Yaris is pricey versus key rivals and that the model launched in 2018 was not a massive leap forward versus the car that it replaced. With a new model not yet confirmed locally, this Yaris will be around for quite some time still.
Related: How to change wiper blades on a Toyota Yaris
Here are 3 things that you need to know about the Toyota Yaris.
1.We get the Asian market Yaris in SA
In 2018, an updated Toyota Yaris debuted and is assembled in Thailand. The current model is designed for and indeed built for Asian markets versus the Yaris models previously sold locally which were more European in terms of their market specification.
This is important to note because some right-hand drive markets in Europe and Australia will be getting the all-new fourth-generation Yaris shortly, at the time of writing, Toyota South Africa was still studying the viability of introducing the latest-generation Yaris.
2.One engine, two gearbox options
There’s now the Suzuki Baleno-based Starlet in the Toyota line-up, which replaces not only the Etios but also provides a Toyota hatchback option in the same price bracket as where the previous base model 1.0-litre Yaris was once sold. This has allowed Toyota to rationalise the Yaris line-up while offering various trim levels.
The sole engine option is the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated unit which produces 79 kW and 140 Nm of torque. The two gearbox options include a 5-speed manual as well as a CVT, both of which send power to the front wheels. The former sips fuel at a claimed rate of 5.9 L/100km while the latter consumes 5.8 L/100km, according to Toyota.
3.It’s large, for its segment
One area where the Yaris managed to improve dramatically versus the car it replaced was in the space department. The latest Yaris is 165mm longer and 5mm wider than the previous model, this means that it features a capacious 310-litre boot along with improved rear-seat occupant legroom. This makes the Yaris one of the most practical vehicles in its segment.
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