The global fourth-gen Yaris portfolio has a model to satisfy almost every need and the latest Yaris Ativ seeks to provide an entry level sedan for buyers in emerging markets. For the time being though, the Japanese automaker doesn’t intend on bringing this sleek sedan to South Africa.
Debuting over the weekend in Thailand, the latest model to be added to this portfolio is the Yaris Ativ – a sleek sedan that offers a generous amount of equipment for an affordable price in typical Toyota fashion. This means that the nomenclature now boasts three- and five-door hatchbacks, a pumped-up crossover derivative, the potent Gazoo Racing (GR) hot-hatch and now this; the Ativ – a model that is aimed at the sedan segments in emerging markets.
While we get to revel in the joy of having the GR Yaris as the solitary offering in our market, that will stay the same since Toyota aren’t planning on bringing the Yaris Ativ into South Africa anytime soon. Not wanting to upset the current pecking order and saturate the dwindling entry level sedan market any further, the locally built Corolla Quest will remain as a stalwart for Toyota’s in that segment.
Related: Second batch of the potent GR Yaris on its way to SA – we have pricing
Despite this, the compact sedan will be produced in the country it was recently introduced in at the Toyota Gateway Plant. Thereafter, it will be exported to over 35 countries to compete against other compact B-segment offerings.
Considering its comparative pricing and standard equipment, it may lure some buyers away from the unnecessary embellished and high riding SUVs. Priced between R250 000 and R320 000 (after converted from the Thai Baht), the Yaris Ativ will be powered by a sole 1,2-litre four cylinder that won’t entice enthusiasts as much as the GR Yaris has but provide an economical and affordable means of mobility nonetheless. Ratings come in at 69 kW and 110 N.m with power delivered to the wheels via a CVT.
The standout aspect of the Yaris Ativ is its equipment and amenities. As standard, all models come with pre-collision warning and Front/Lane Departure Alert. The base spec Sport model is equipped with 16-inch alloys and LED headlights while the interior boasts an 8-inch touch display. Moving further up the trim levels, the Smart derivative gets a 9-inch screen with a dashcam and rear USB ports. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported on the infotainment systems.
The more plush Premium Yaris Ativ gets climate control with rear AC vents, adaptive cruise control while the top-of-the-range Premium Luxury gets Pioneer sound system.
