Small cars are big business, and auto makers seem locked into a collective mission to turn out affordable models that are increasingly upscale and high-tech. It's about answering the demands of an increasingly savvy shopper, who want the latest in globally-leveraged small-car design and engineering.
The days of affordable cars designed to a mere price-point are numbered, and the 2016 Toyota Yaris Sedan is an example of the shift to a new generation of covet-able compact.
Priced and equipped to target a younger shopper than the Corolla, Yaris's new body puts big-car styling elements to work in a small-car package, with deep sculpting, a swept shape, and abundant character lines. It's a more sophisticated look than the norm in this segment, and Yaris might be the most detailed and striking-looking small Toyota to date.
The interior is executed with similar attention to detail. Even base model units feature a leatherette slash across the dash, accented with coloured stitching, for a premium touch. Others include two-tone seats, the use of a carbon-fibre accent pattern on select surfaces, and the subtle use of chrome accents. Round climate control vents and a futuristic-looking three-pod gauge cluster dial up the looks as well. Strangely, audio system controls are mounted high atop the dash, displayed on the multi-purpose pod which would house the navigation screen, if it were equipped. There's a bit of a reach for these questionably-placed controls, though ultimately, Yaris's on-board atmosphere is modern and high-tech.
But it's beneath the new sheet metal and plastic where Yaris's most compelling attribute takes up residence. A new high-strength body structure utilizes advanced, strong, and light high-tensile steel, commonly employed by engineers to increase the strength of structural components without increasing their size or weight. Impact safety, weight reduction and interior volume are commonly noted benefits, but there's another: a stronger structure forms a more precise attachment point for the suspension, which allows for more carefully-honed tuning of the ride and handling.
So, in addition to shedding traditional small-car looks and Fifty Shades of Grey plastic interior trim towards added substantiality, Yaris's latest suspension, and the structure to which it's bolted, work to similar effect.
It's less appealing for what you feel, and more appealing for what you don't: even on surfaces dotted with heaves, dips, potholes and washboards, Yaris's ride keeps its act together. There's no popping, clanking or excessive harshness from beneath the car. Ride quality degrades only slightly over the roughest surfaces, and the suspension feels like it's absorbing and neutralizing imperfections in the road, not crashing into them. The suspension and ride feel and sound thick, solid and substantial.
Passenger space is just adequate for four adults, with rear seat space proving snug, though not uncomfortably so. Yaris's trunk is delightfully deep and wide, with a squared-up opening and overall shape translating into plenty of usable space. Split-folding rear seats are standard.
All models run a 1.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder for 106 horsepower and nearly as much torque, and the standard six-speed manual has a dense, short-throw shift feel that enthusiast drivers will appreciate. Be prepared to work the gearbox though – the engine performs best at mid to high revs, and won't climb a steep hill in sixth without losing speed. The six-speed automatic makes logical choices at most times, and briefly cuts the revs during full-throttle upshifts to smooth things out. Power delivery is adequate, maybe even a little grin-worthy at times and, even pushed, the engine maintains smoothness and operates with an eager growl.
A tight turning circle and light-as-a-feather steering at low speeds makes parking a cinch, and an available backup camera adds confidence in tight quarters.
TECH SPECS
- Base price: $16,995
- Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder, direct injection
- Transmission/Drive: six-speed manual or six-speed automatic/front-wheel drive
- Fuel Economy (litres/100km): 7.2 city, 5.6 highway, 6.4 combined, using regular fuel
- Alternatives: Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Versa, Honda Fit
RATINGS
- Looks: Big-car styling elements applied to a compact package with plenty of detailing helps Yaris pack a satisfying visual punch.
- Interior: Modern, upscale and packed with details, Yaris’s new cabin hits harder than its price suggests, with a modern and sporty atmosphere on offer.
- Performance: Get the engine spinning a little, and it scoots along with urgency and an eager growl.
- Technology: Bluetooth, navigation, a backup-cam and a central command system for full multimedia connectivity will appeal to today’s always-connected, always-on shopper. Push-button start and steering-wheel mounted audio and cruise controls are standard.
- Cargo: Trunk space is more than adequate, with minimal wasted space.
The Verdict
9.0
A fresh and spirited new compact car with many strengths and few weaknesses.