Toyota has revealed the first all-new Yaris light hatch in nearly eight years, with a bold new look and dynamic underpinnings.
The fourth-generation Yaris (first-gen models were badged ‘Echo’ in Australia) rides on Toyota’s modular TNGA platform – namely the ‘GA-B’ derivative designed for B-segment vehicles – shared with the Corolla, RAV4, Camry and more. The new car promises to offer an improved driving experience, aided by its 50mm wider body, 60mm wider track, 40 per cent increase in structural rigidity and 50kg lower weight.
Despite being 5mm shorter in length and 40mm lower, Toyota claims the new model’s lower seating position and 50mm longer wheelbase translate to similar headroom and increased leg/knee room over the outgoing car. A best-in-class turning circle is also claimed.
The 2020 Yaris differs most over its predecessor in the visual department. It adopts a sportier, more dynamic look, with a large front grille, LED headlights and taillights, wide wheel arches and optional black contrast roof.
Considerable changes have also occured inside, with a large touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satellite navigation taking centre stage in the middle of the dashboard.
Drivers look into a digital instrument cluster and 10-inch head-up display, and benefit from other cabin features including a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging and ambient LED lighting.
Powertrain choices consist of a range of three-cylinder engines. Australian customers will have two options: an ~80kW 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol paired to a CVT transmission, or an efficient hybrid setup extracting ~85kW from a 1.5-litre three-cylinder and a 59kW electric motor. A smaller 1.0-litre engine will also be offered in Europe.
The list of available safety technology has also received an upgrade. The full Toyota Safety Sense suite is expected be offered as standard, which includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, speed sign recognition, lane centering assist and an airbag between the front passengers.
The 2020 Toyota Yaris is set to go on sale in Australia in mid-2020.
