Toyota South Africa Motors has dropped its French-built (European-market) Yaris hatchback in favour of the larger Asia-spec model.
Measuring some 165 mm longer than the outgoing Yaris, the new Asian-market version of the hatchback (facelifted in countries such as Thailand in September 2017) features both more interior and luggage space (the latter now a claimed 300 litres), and vastly different styling.
Like the outgoing line-up, the new range comprises five derivatives, although the entry-level 1,0-litre model falls away, effectively raising the starting price from R201 000 to R230 800. The previously range-topping hybrid model, too, will no longer be offered.
Each of the five new variants is powered by a naturally aspirated 1,5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that sends 79 kW and 140 N.m (down 3 kW and up 4 N.m compared with the outing 1,5-litre) to the front wheels. Models equipped with a five-speed manual transmission sip at a claimed 5,9 L/100 km and top out at 180 km/h, while the single CVT derivative comes in at 5,8 L/100 km and 170 km/h.
The line-up comprises four trim levels. The base Xi model features keyless entry (with a start button), a four-speaker sound system (with USB and Bluetooth functionality), electrically adjustable side-mirrors, electric windows up front and manual air-conditioning.
The Xs trim adds a touchscreen system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, as well as satellite navigation), 16-inch alloys (instead of 15-inch steelies), automatic headlamps, retractable side-mirrors, electric windows at the rear, a leather multifunction steering wheel and LED daytime running lights.
The Cross variant furthermore features roof-rails, black cladding, “brushed metal” apron treatment and black over-fenders. Lastly, the flagship Sport model gains items such as a red-stitched leather steering wheel, leather seats, climate control, front foglamps, projector headlamps, LED taillights, a boot spoiler, side skirts and a model-specific front grille.
Interestingly, all models feature just two airbags (driver and front passenger), bar the flagship Sport variant, which adds side, curtain and driver knee airbags. Other safety features standard across the range include ABS with EBD, stability control, hill assist control and Isofix child-seat anchors.
As before, all models feature a three-year/100 000 km warranty and a three-year/45 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).
Pricing:
Toyota Yaris 1,5 Xi: R230 800
Toyota Yaris 1,5 Xs: R253 400
Toyota Yaris 1,5 Xs CVT: R268 500
Toyota Yaris 1,5 Cross: R268 500
Toyota Yaris 1,5 Sport: R286 000
