A Closer Look At The All-New Toyota Yaris

Set to be launched later this month, UMW Toyota Motor is previewing the all-new Yaris at the ongoing Malaysia Auto Show, happening at MAEPS in Seri Kembangan until this weekend.

The model on display here is painted in Citrus Mica Metallic – the hero colour for the Yaris. Compared to the Honda Jazz, the Yaris expresses a much more youthful image than the Jazz, which is unusual for the typically stoic Toyota. It’s also better equipped than the Honda too, again not something that you will normally say about a Toyota.

Compared to the Thailand market 1.2-litre (3NR-FE) Yaris, our local specifications Yaris comes with a larger 1.5-litre 2NR-FE naturally aspirated petrol engine (107 PS/140 Nm) that’s shared with the Vios. The additional 21 PS and 32 Nm that our local Yaris has comes at the expense of projector LED headlamps and synthetic leather upholstery, which the smaller engine capacity Thai Yaris has.

There are three variants on offer – 1.5J, 1.5E, and 1.5G. Prices have yet to be confirmed but it is estimated to range from RM71,888 to RM84,888.

All variants are adequately equipped with the necessary active and passive safety features. Seven airbags, electronic stability and traction control, and hill start assist are standard. The higher E and G variants add blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, front digital video recorder (rear camera is also available - optional), 360 degree parking camera – all of which are not available in the Honda Jazz (ranges from RM70,242 to RM88,600, excluding insurance).

Of course, the Honda Jazz counters by having a more spacious and practical interior. The utility offered by the Ultra Seats is still something that only Honda offers. The Jazz also offers a hybrid variant (RM87,707), which has a combined output of 137 hp and 170 Nm, far more than the Yaris.

The entry-level Toyota Yaris 1.5J (estimated from RM 71,888) gets:

• 15-inch alloy wheels with 185/60 R15 tyres
• Halogen reflector headlights
• Bulb-type tail lights
• LED daytime running lights
• Power-adjustable side mirrors
• Shark fin antenna
• Rear fog lamps
• Fabric upholstery
• 4 speaker sound system
• 60:40 split folding rear seats
• Fabric centre console box
• Illuminated scuff plates
• Blue front footwell illumination
• 7 airbags
• ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
• Vehicle Stability Control with Traction Control
• Hill-Start Assist Control
• Speed-sensing door locks

The mid-range Toyota Yaris 1.5E (estimated from RM 77,888) adds:

• 16-inch alloy wheels with 195/50 R16 tyres
• Halogen projector headlights
• LED tail lights
• Acoustic windshield
• Front fog lights
• Auto folding and power-adjustable side mirrors with turn signals
• Multi-info display
• Drive mode switch
• Steering audio control
• 6.8-inch touchscreen head unit
• Panoramic View Monitor (PVM)
• Toyota Premium Security & Solar Tint Film
• Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Front Digital Video Recorder (DVR)

The range topping Toyota Yaris 1.5G (estimated from RM84,888) adds:

• Unique front grille with colour plating
• Optitron meter cluster
• 4.2-inch colour MID
• Leather steering wheel with MID controls
• Leather shift knob
• 6 speakers
• Auto air-conditioning
• Rear disc brakes

Between the Jazz and the Yaris, the former is better suited for buyers looking something more family friendly and practical, while the Yaris will appeal to younger buyers looking for something different and young.

As for the driving experience, we will share that next month, once we get some driving time with the car after its launch later this month.  

Find the best deals for the all-new Toyota Yaris here.