The Toyota Yaris, although brand-new in 2006 and much larger than the version it took over from, it continues as one of the most compact super minis you can buy. And in addition we're not very much convinced by the design. showcasing a new corporate nose, the second-gen vehicle does not have the same novel allure as the original. The collection follows Toyota's standard sense, in 3- and 5-door body shells; which means T2, T3, T Spirit and SR trims, plus various special editions. It competes with opponents for example the Nissan Micra, Ford Fiesta and Mazda 2; designs including the Renault Clio III and Vauxhall Corsa are all that bit bigger. Towards the top of the line-up sits a semi-sporty 1.8-litre version, but this isn’t a RenaultSport Clio 197 competitor.
The Yaris includes a very good cabin. It’s contemporary, classy and includes soft-touch plastics plus tactile switchgear. Storage is first-rate, notably the Yaris’ characteristic double dashtop cubbie spaces. A split-level floor improves luggage room within the boot, while the rear seats move independently in a 60:40 split-up; the already-considerable 272-litre capacity can also be raised to 363 litres. Inside the back, legroom is not huge but headroom is, and the Yaris does sensibly take three rear passengers. But up front, the driving position can be quite high, and also the seats lack side support.
