Car reviews

Introduction

The first Yaris was a truly international project: designed by a Greek designer, built using Japanese technology in France and built for Europe. Toyota was sure that the new car fulfilled all the criteria to make it big in Europe, and it did. This made the task of developing the 2nd generation Yaris a difficult undertaking. The redesign was carried out at Toyota's European design headquarters EC2.

Exterior & Interior

Toyota has listened to its customers and the fact the 1st generation of the Yaris was not spacious enough. As a result, the second generation has been made bigger. The wheelbase has been stretched by more than 3 inches now and measures 97 inches. In fact, all of the car's dimensions have grown. The exterior of the new Toyota is slightly less exciting. Although it's still a good looking car, the shape of the new Yaris is unlikely to stir controversy the way the first Yaris did. Both three-door and five-door cars offer decent space; five-door cars have better access to the rear seats.

The basic trim of Yaris is, well, very basic. It was supplied with steel dics and a very minimal level of sophistication. The interior of the 2nd generation Yaris leaves a good impression. However, from a car that looks fun on the outside, you'd expect more fun on the inside. Nevertheless the interior is executed in dark colours and conservative lines. The black/silver dashboard bears resemblance with a 90s home stereo system.

Even though it doesn't excite you, sitting in a Yaris gives a sense of safety. Compared to the 1st generation, the new Yaris has jumped a whole star in several safety ratings, including the EuroNCAP.

Drive

The Yaris has character and despite the small engines, driving one can be a great experience. The car provides good handling and it is easy to drive.

Extra space and comfort has been achieved by introducing an upright seating position. This has created more luggage space and legroom, something that the old Yaris didn't really have. Upright seats usually come with fatigue and backache, right? Not in the Yaris' case. The seats have a sporty profile and are easily adjustable to accommodate people of various body types.

For those who insist on driving a sporty Yaris, there's the SR modification with a slightly improved power output from the 1.3-litre engine coupled with a 6-speed gearbox. The sporty gearbox can be found on several Yaris' trims and it should be noted that the mechanical box is great fun to use. The auto 6-speed gearbox carrying the index MMT is a waste of time and better be avoided altogether.

Faults & Repairs

The old engines have been either dropped or upgraded, so there will be no major problems with the engines. What can cause problems, though, are the gearboxes, especially the sophisticated automatic ones. They have a pretty short lifespan. Overall, apart from small electrical faults, the Yaris is a reliable car.