Upcoming Toyota Yaris: Features to look for

So here we are again, talking about the upcoming Toyota Yaris. This hatchback has gained so much attention even before its launch that, perhaps, most of Toyota’s marketing work has already been covered. Earlier in February, UMW Toyota Motor confirmed the arrival of the car in our country sometime in Q2 2019. Now, as the deadline is closing, people are getting more excited and impatient about the Yaris.

Toyota Malaysia also released a promotional video of the 2019 Yaris featuring the country’s popular actor and singer Janna Nick. This is another sign that the launch of the much-awaited hatchback is nearing. Apart from this, earlier we got to know some of the features that this car would get when it was showcased on Toyota Malaysia website. So what are those features that you should look for in this to-be-launched Toyota? Read on.

Sporty and dynamic design

Yes, the 2019 Toyota Yaris will look identical to its elder sibling, the Toyota Vios which is already on sale in our country. However, it’s to be noted that with the same look and features, the Yaris tends to look much more sporty and dynamic than the Vios. Maybe this has got something to do with the fact that it’s a hatchback and not a sedan.

We like the large headlamps that take up a significant portion of the front fascia. Also, the sporty bumper with the LED daytime running lights and fog lamps looks fantastic. The side profile of the Yaris is even better thanks to the blacked-out C-pillar and stylish alloy wheels. Even though the Yaris is a cut-down version of the Vios, things don’t look out of proportion from any angle.

The rear end of the upcoming Toyota Yaris gets a pair of slightly revised two-piece combination tail lights that are large enough to complement the headlamps at front. Also, the roof-mounted rear spoiler adds the missing sportiness.

Interesting interior features

The interior of the 2019 Yaris is expected to be similar to that of the 2019 Vios. Some of the interesting features to look for are a 4.3-inch Optitron instrument cluster which seems very attractive, electrochromic rearview mirror, automatic air conditioning, DVD-AVX head unit with USB mirroring that allows the buyers to cast smartphone’s screen on the infotainment display, 360-degree view camera, and much more. The cabin space should also be sufficient for accommodating five people.

Engine

2019 Toyota Yaris specs would be showing the same 2NR-FE 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine which has been given duties in the Toyota Vios. It would produce around 107 PS of max power and generate 140 Nm of torque. Most likely this will be the only engine option available in Malaysia. As far as transmission is concerned, again, there would be only a CVT option onboard.

Safety features

2019 Toyota Vios scored a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, and Toyota never fails to boast about that. Since the Yaris is based on the Vios, it should get similar safety features that would make it as safe as the sedan. Features like 7 airbags, blind spot monitoring, hill start assist control, ABS with EBD and brake assist, etc. should come as standard.

Toyota is going to use its new plant located in Bukit Raja, Klang to manufacture the upcoming Yaris. Although there’s no official launch date released by the company, the promotional events and activities clearly suggest that it’s going to happen pretty soon. The 2019 Toyota Yaris price is expected to start at RM 71,888 for the base model and would reach RM 84,888 for the range-topping model. We would be getting a total of 5 color options to pick from - Citrus Mica Metallic, Red Mica Metallic, Attitude Black, Silver Metallic, and Super White II.

The new 2019 Yaris has already made quite a buzz, and it hasn’t been launched yet. Chances are this might be troubling for its rival models. Let’s see how the Yaris would affect the hatchback segment once launched. We’ll be covering all the latest updates regarding this little car, so stay tuned for that.