New Yaris benefits from improved efficiency and revised interior and exterior styling.
Toyota has been kind enough to announce the new Yaris will go on sale in the summer of 2014. We’ll have to wait for a UK specification and prices but we can at least jump into a plethora of details and images in the meantime.
A number of changes have gone on under the small bonnet. The three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol now boasts CO2 emissions of 99g/km (down from 110g/km), while the Yaris hybrid has seen CO2 emissions reduced from 79 to 75g/km. Fuel economy for the latter is now 85.6mpg.
The 1.33 VVT-i petrol and 1.4 D-4D make up the two remaining engine choices. Noise and vibration levels have been reduced in both cases.
Toyota has attempted to make the 2014 Yaris more stylish than its predecessor. It now features headlamps with projector technology and daytime running lights. The front end has two trapezoidal grilles that merge in a cross shape as seen on other Toyotas. At the back is a diffuser and new rear bumper design.
Inside, the Yaris has a thinner instrument panel to improve the aesthetics. Meanwhile the centre console sits 23mm higher so the gear lever can sit 30mm lower in an attempt to make gear changes more comfortable. Toyota’s Touch 2 multimedia system now has a 7-inch display, up from 6.1-inches.
Handling and ride comfort is said to be improved, thanks to a new torsion beam with softer coil springs, rebound springs within the shock absorbers, steering improvements and increased body stiffness and rigidity.
A greater level of customisation will be available, including a choice of interior and exterior colour schemes, such as either unpainted, metallic black or piano black for the lower grille. This works in conjunction with a new grade (trim level) system, which is said to be ‘more distinctive and clearly differentiated.
Standard extras include air conditioning, Toyota Touch 2 infotainment system and a leather steering wheel. Dual zone air conditioning, Toyota Touch 2 multimedia rear privacy glass, push button start, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, cruise control and auto-folding mirrors are optional.
Toyota said to expect UK grades, specifications and prices nearer the summer release. We’ll keep you posted.
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