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2014 Yaris sets new benchmark for small car segment
Small but mighty, the refreshed and redesigned Yaris range has arrived, showcasing specification, features and technology that will extend its appeal to new customers and delight existing Yaris drivers.
An all-new exterior design brings a fresh face to the three-model Yaris offering, but there’s substance behind the style with plenty of standard specification in every model.
Toyota New Zealand General Manager of Sales Steve Prangnell says that the combination of increased specification and lower price means the perennially popular Yaris will grow the small car segment.
“When stacked up against the rest of the market, the Yaris boasts an impressive level of specification right across the range.
“A comprehensive suite of safety equipment and increased convenience features in every model and we’ve kept recommended selling prices low, reflecting the broad audience for the Yaris. It’s a compact hatchback where convenience and quality go hand-in-hand. Like its bigger siblings in the Toyota range, Yaris has a level of quality and the premium build you won’t see in its rivals.
“As a result our smallest five-door hatchback really punches above its weight in a competitive segment.”
Product general manager Neeraj Lala says the decision was made to focus on features that were important to customers.
“For example, every model including the entry level $22,990 Yaris GX manual receive a reversing camera and Toyota’s 6.1” touchscreen, to ensure reversing manoeuvres can be completed safely and with confidence.”
Other convenience items making up an impressive list of features in every 2014 Yaris include Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for safely making and receiving phone calls, Bluetooth audio streaming and USB integration (including album cover art display), AUX (3.5mm) and cruise control. While all models feature air conditioning with clean air filter, SX and ZR grades also enjoy climate control air conditioning and auto on/off headlight control.
The all-new sporty ZR addition to the range (from $28,990) can also be optioned with a satellite navigation system, which incorporates Voice Recognition software and SUNA Traffic technology, providing real-time traffic data (where available) and helping the driver avoid delays with alternative route information for those customers specifically after such features.
Even underneath the Yaris’ newly restyled bodywork, the sort of attention-to-detail that sets Toyota’s compact cars apart abounds.
The engineering team has worked hard to provide a tranquil on-road experience in the cabin. Foam-based sound insulation and the use of a high-density insulator for the engine hood reduce noise from the engine compartment. Similar sound insulation and vibration suppressant measures have been adopted under the floor and dashboard.
In order to create passenger space in the cabin while preserving the impressive 710mm long x 1257mm wide boot accommodating 286 litres, slimmer seat backs and a thinner, more compact boot latch mechanism have been employed. Speaking of seats, the new Yaris ZR showcases unique sports-style seating up front with additional support, furthering the individual flavour of this new addition.
Every grade also boasts a comprehensive level of safety equipment: in addition to ABS (Anti-Lock Braking), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), BA (Brake Assist), VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and TRC (Traction Control), all Yaris’ receive an emergency brake signal system which flashes under heavy braking to warn following vehicles. Seven SRS airbags are on board every new Yaris, including driver’s front and front passenger airbags, drivers knee airbag, two front side airbags and front and rear curtain shield airbags.
The comprehensively equipped Yaris range is available at Toyota dealers nationwide, with recommended selling prices starting at $22,990.