Weight: 2,220kg (Tare)
Wheels: Alloy 17 x 7.5-inch

The Yaris is Toyota’s attempt to stay ahead of the rest of the pack and in the center of the conversation, what with its interestingly-mounted gauge pod in the middle of the dash. It’s an acquired taste though, and will take a few glances and drives to see whether you would want to get behind the wheel.

Let’s start with the gauge cluster. While I enjoy the possibility of being able to stow things right in front of the wheel, like sunglasses and maps that commonly end up on the floor, I also like to see what’s going on. It’s hard to do that when I’m looking out onto the roadway, then left to the pod and then back. It sort of felt like my co-pilot was delivering the information via a dummy that required me to half turn each time.

Outside of that, the Yaris’ interior is decent for those looking for a commuter car. While there is seating for five, there really isn’t space for it. Consider asking your friends for a ride if the whole group is going out, although for extended shopping trips a couple could make do with the fold-down rear seats and the space proffered by the hatch.

On the YRX, the driver also has the ability to change the stereo from the steering wheel, and a variety of features such as a keyless remote and power windows and mirrors. Be warned though, the YRX will set you back a healthy $21,490.

The car’s engine does a little to boost the appeal, with 80kW and 141Nm on tap from the 1.5 litre four-cylinder. That manages to provide a decent amount of go in the compact Yaris, but it begins to sound more and more like an overworked chainsaw, which may or may not alert other motorists to your attempts to merge into traffic.

Steering suffers from Toyota’s belief that cars should provide as little feedback as possible. While the car turns in admirably and the body feels solid through corners, you’ll be taking advantage of the Yaris’ visibility to learn those facts, rather than from the steering wheel.

If things get a bit difficult, the Enhanced safety pack offers features that would be impressive on much larger models, including a raft of airbags and anti-lock brakes with force assist and distribution. All of the Yaris’ are equipped with specially-designed crumple zones that allow the small hatch to malform in parts, rather than the occupants.

New entries on the market like the Ford Fiesta and the Mazda2 have taken a lot of the luster out of what had been a very capable car. Expect the Yaris to be in the middle of the pack on fuel economy at about 9.1L/100km, and the driving won’t be as spirited as it would be on either the fiesta or the Mazda2.

If you like the look of the Yaris, both on the inside and the outside, it’s a worthwhile contender for your affections and chequebook. The problem is that there are cars that do more with less. Toyota’s Corolla used to provide the feeling of potential with the larger body size and the ability to fit more cargo or people. It’s moved on, and some of the reviewers here wonder if people won’t start doing the same with the Yaris.

Specifications:
Engine: 1.5-litre DOHC four-cylinder (16 valve)
Power: 80kW @ 6000rpm
Torque: 141Nm @ 4200rpm
Transmission: Four-speed automatic
Driven Wheels: Front
Brakes: Discs with ABS, EBA & EBD
Top Speed: Not tested
CO2 Emissions: 160g/km
Fuel Consumption: 6.7L/100km (Claimed)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 42L
Fuel Type: 91RON Unleaded Petrol
ANCAP Rating: Four-star
Airbags: Dual front
Safety: (Optional ESC & Traction Control)
Spare Wheel: Full size alloy
Tow Capacity: 700kg (Braked)
Turning Circle: 9.4m
Warranty: Three Year / 100,000km
Weight: 1045kg (Tare)
Wheels: Alloy 15 x 5.5-inch