Overview
The Toyota Yaris is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. It was first introduced in 1998 and has since become one of the most popular cars in its class globally.
Design and Features
The Yaris features a compact body with a length of around 3.9 meters, width of approximately 1.7 meters, and a height of about 1.5 meters. The car's design is characterized by a sloping hood, a curved roofline, and a flat tailgate. The interior is spacious, with ample legroom for passengers and cargo space behind the rear seats.
Engine and Performance
The Yaris comes equipped with various engine options, depending on the market and trim level. These include:
- 1.0-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 65 horsepower
- 1.3-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine generating 90 horsepower
- 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain delivering 80 horsepower from a combination of an electric motor and a gasoline engine
Safety Features
The Toyota Yaris has received high safety ratings in various countries, thanks to its robust build quality and advanced safety features. These include:
- Seven airbags, including front, side, and curtain bags
- Electronic stability control (ESC)
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Rearview camera (on higher trims)
Trim Levels and Variants
The Yaris is available in various trim levels, including base, mid-range, and high-end variants. These often come with features such as:
- 14-inch steel wheels on the base model
- 16-inch alloy wheels on the mid-range variant
- LED headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system, and keyless entry on the top-of-the-line trim
Dimensions and Capacity
- Length: 3,943 mm (154.9 in)
- Width: 1,695 mm (66.7 in)
- Height: 1,475 mm (58 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,460 mm (96.8 in)
- Curb weight: approximately 970 kg (2,140 lbs)
Colors and Options
The Toyota Yaris is available in a range of colors, including solid metallic shades like gray, silver, and white, as well as more vibrant options such as blue, red, and orange.
Market Positioning and Sales
The Yaris has been consistently one of the best-selling cars globally, with over 2.5 million units sold worldwide since its introduction in 1998. It competes directly with other subcompact models like the Honda Jazz, Hyundai i20, and Volkswagen Polo in various markets.
Reliability and Maintenance
Toyota is renowned for building reliable vehicles, and the Yaris is no exception. The car has received high reliability ratings from organizations such as J.D. Power and What Car?, making it an attractive choice for buyers looking for a low-maintenance vehicle.
