Following the introduction of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive on the Auris, the company has also launched the Yaris Hybrid with the same system – making it the smallest and most affordable full hybrid on sale in South Africa.
The Yaris Hybrid is distiguishable from other models in the Yaris range thanks to the aerodynamically-efficient exterior enhancements that help it achieve a drag coefficent of 0,286 Cd. These include a revised front bumper and grille design, specially-designed door mirrors, alloy wheels and rear spoiler. The range-topping Yaris is further defined by the model-specific LED daytime driving lights lining the headlamps and LED taillamps.
Two trim packages are available, the base spec Xs and higher grade XR. The only exterior differences between the two are the front fog lamps, rear privacy glass, and rear spoiler on the XR model.
The implementation of Hybird Synergy Drive in the Yaris sees the first time that the system has been downsized – as the Yaris Hybrid features a 1,5-litre Atkinson Cycle petrol engine with VVT. The four-cylinder unit produces 55 kW at 4 800 r/min and 111 N.m of torque from 3 600 r/min. With assistance from the electric motor, which is in turn powered by a battery pack located under the rear seat, the total system output is 74 kW and average fuel consumption is just 3,8 litres/100 km.
“Toyota has taken its sophisticated HSD drivetrain and squeezed it into the popular Yaris, making it the smallest full hybrid in the world, not forgetting of course that it carries the most affordable price tag. With emissions of just 88 g/km, it’s also officially South Africa’s lowest carbon emitter,” says Kerry Roodt, general manager of Marketing Communications at Toyota South Africa Motors.
Inside, the Yaris Hybrid’s exclusive treatment includes a soft-touch facia and door panels, blue stitching on the seats, steering wheel and hand brake lever. Standard features include the Toyota Touch infotainment system (which includes a hybrid system monitor, six speakers, and audio jack/USB inputs), automatic dual zone climate control, multifunction steering wheel, and a height-adjustble driver's seat. Over and above this, the XR model also gets a push-start button, illuminated glovebox with cooling function, an eight-speaker sound system, electrically adjustable rear windows, cruise control and auto lights and windscreen wipers.
Safety spec on the 5-star EuroNCAP-scoring Yaris Hybrid includes ABS with EBD and BAS, Vehicle Stability Control, as well as driver, passenger and side airbags. The XR model boasts seven airbags over the standard four, thanks to additional curtain and driver knee airbags.
Prices (including VAT)
Yaris HSD XS – R223 800
Yaris HSD VR – R245 900
The new Yaris Hybrid benefits from a three year/100 000 km warranty, extended to eight years/195,000 km on hybrid system components, including the battery. The HSD range also comes with a standard four year/60 000 km service plan.