Toyota has added standard
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) to all
2010 Toyota Yaris models. These features make all Yaris models standard
with Toyota Star Safety System, which also includes an Anti-lock
Braking System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake
Assist. Yaris is the only vehicle in its segment to offer this set of
safety features as standard equipment. A manual transmission with
standard tachometer is now available on the five-door model. Rear
window defroster is now standard on all Yaris models.
The Yaris line includes three distinct models, including a four-door sedan, three-door Liftback and a five-door Liftback.
Yaris remains the smart choice for consumers looking for
outstanding value, safety features and fuel economy in the entry
subcompact category. With the five-speed manual transmission, Yaris is
EPA-rated to achieve 29 MPG city / 36 MPG highway; the ratings are
29/35 with the smooth-shifting four-speed electronic automatic
transmission.
Performance and Efficiency
The Toyota Yaris
brings a high level of balanced value, safety and a fun-to-drive
experience to the entry subcompact segment. Its 1.5-liter four-cylinder
engine is equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i)
and produces 106 hp at 6,000 rpm and 103 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200
rpm. The optional four-speed automatic transmission features
uphill/downhill shift logic to reduce gear "hunting" for smooth
performance when driving in hills.
Handling and Ride
The Yaris is built around a
highly rigid structure incorporating strategic use of high-tensile
steel. Damping materials strategically located throughout the body
structure reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to help give
Yaris a comfortable, quiet ride. Suspension and steering are tuned to
deliver responsive handling, a smooth ride and excellent
maneuverability, including a remarkably tight 32.6-ft. turning circle
for the Sedan and just 30.8-ft. for the Liftback.
The L-arm MacPherson strut front suspension includes a
0.9-inch stabilizer bar. A hydroformed torsion beam axle for the rear
suspension provides efficient packaging. Both the Yaris Liftback and
Sedan ride on standard 175/65 R14 tires with steel wheels and full
wheel covers. Newly-styled 15-inch steel or aluminum-alloy wheels are
also available.
The sport-themed Liftback and Sedan S models feature color-keyed
front and rear under-bumper spoilers; amber illuminated tachometer;
sport seat fabric; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; rear
window defroster; rear window wiper; AM/FM/CD player with MP3/WMA
capability iPod® interface; auxiliary audio jack, satellite radio
capability, CD text display function; and "S" badging. Aluminum-alloy
wheels are available.
Safety and Security
Yaris helps protect its
occupants with a reinforced cabin that integrates front and rear
crumple zones and energy-absorbing materials on the roof and doors. All
five seating positions are equipped with height-adjustable headrests
and three-point seatbelts, and the front seatbelts integrate
pretensioners and force limiters. Standard driver and passenger
advanced dual-stage front airbags (SRS) inflate according to collision
severity. A front seat passenger sensor is designed to detect weight
capacity on the seat to determine whether the airbag should inflate and
the correct inflation power.
Front-seat-mounted side airbags with first and second row
roll-sensing side curtain airbags are standard in all Yaris models The
rear seat is equipped with the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children
(LATCH) uniform child restraint anchorage system.
Comfort and Convenience
The Yaris Liftback
interior provides roominess that belies its exterior dimensions. The
comfortable cabin provides rear seating for three with headrests in all
seating positions. A 60/40 split rear seatback is included in the
optional Convenience Package on Sedan and Power Package on Liftback.
Yaris models are designed for convenience, providing easy-to-reach
audio and climate controls, an array of storage spaces including a
center console with built-in storage, and cup holders in the front and
rear. The Liftback's rear seatback folds down to expand cargo capacity
from 9.3 cubic feet to 25.7 cubic feet. The Yaris Sedan's spacious
trunk offers nearly 12.9 cubic feet of capacity.
The instrument cluster is center-mounted and high on the dash to
enhance forward visibility. Generous standard convenience features on
Yaris Liftback and Sedan models include air conditioning; tilt steering
wheel; rear window deforster; tachometer on manual transmission models;
digital clock; a map light; intermittent windshield wipers with mist
control; and dual sunvisors with vanity mirrors.
Options
Yaris is available with a number of comfort and convenience
options, as well as a selection of accessories for individualization.
The convenience package is available on the Sedan and Liftback and adds
an AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability auxiliary audio
jack (AUX), satellite radio capability, and CD text display function;
upgraded 185/60R 15-inch tires on steel wheels with full wheel covers;
and 60/40 folding rear seatbacks. The Liftback includes a rear wiper
and a sliding and reclining feature in the rear seats. All audio
systems are satellite radio capable.
The optional Power Package further equips Yaris with power door
locks, windows, and side mirrors. New for 2010, all Yaris models
include a remote keyless entry system and engine immobilizer. The
Sedan Power Package also includes upgraded interior trim.
The Sport Package, available on Liftback and Sedan, features
color-keyed front and rear under-body spoilers; side rocker panels;
rear spoiler; integrated front fog lamps; amber illuminated tachometer;
driver and front passenger sport seats with sport fabric;
leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; AM/FM/CD player with
MP3/WMA capability iPod® interface; auxiliary audio jack, satellite
radio capability, CD text display function; and "S" badging.
By
selecting the Power or Sport Package, customers can individualize the
Yaris with stand alone options, which include 15-inch alloy wheels and
cruise control. Integrated fog lamps are available as an option on the
Power Package.
The Liftback is available in six colors and the Sedan is offered
in nine colors. Only two colors, Polar White and Black Sand Pearl, are
shared by both body styles for an array of 15 color choices over the
two body styles.
Exterior Design
The Yaris Sedan rides on a longer version of the platform, with a
100.4-inch wheelbase versus 96.9 inches for both Liftback models. The
Yaris Sedan has an overall length of 169.3 inches compared to 150.6
inches for the Liftback models, and the Sedan is 2.5 inches lower than
the Liftbacks, as well. The Yaris Sedan is distinguished by its own
styling, with the grille framed by sharp character lines integrated
into the aerodynamic hood and windshield.
Like the Liftback, the Sedan features a "T" face grille that
emphasizes the Toyota identity. Eliminating outer moldings from the
windshield and door glass helps to enhance aerodynamics and reduce wind
noise. In the rear, the tail lamps frame a wide trunk opening. The
trunk lid extends down to the bumper molding to provide a substantial
appearance as well as easy trunk access.
The distinctive rear styling features large taillights, and the
wide liftgate provides easy cargo area access. Styled at Toyota's
European design studio, ED², and Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Design
Division, the Yaris Liftback features a strong, modern mono-form shape
with short overhangs. Its arched beltline and wheels pushed outward at
each corner give Yaris Liftback an assertive stance, while integrated
bumpers, headlamps, and color-keyed door handles and mirrors lend
sophisticated appearance.