US-spec 2020 Toyota Yaris hatchback will be based on the Mazda 2

KUALA LUMPUR: It is somewhat unusual when a model from a car manufacturer is entirely different based on the region it is available in. The Toyota Yaris is one such example, with three completely different models that have nothing in common except for the name.
Over in Europe/Japan, you have the 3rd generation Euro-centric Yaris model while the Vios-based equivalent does duty in the ASEAN region. Over in North America, the Yaris will be based on the Mazda 2. So, the 8-year-old Yaris is being laid to rest and is replaced by a car that made its debut in 2014. The Yaris Sedan also got updated in a similar manner.

The Yaris hatch is pretty much identical to the Mazda 2 it is based on. The front end design is the differentiating factor. Here, the Mazda design makes way for a big trapezoidal grille which is further emphasised by the lines emanating from it. Standard across the range are 16-inch alloy wheels while the top of the line XLE variants gets automatic LED headlights.

Move to the inside, and you will think that it is a Mazda, the Toyota logo on the steering wheel being the only giveaway. You get the full-width air vent design with the ‘floating’ 7-inch touchscreen unit. The touchscreen unit is powered by Mazda’s MZD Connect infotainment system (now with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard) and is controlled by a rotary knob positioned between the front seats.
Some of the standard features on the US-spec Yaris include fog lights, tilt/telescopic steering, navigation system, keyless entry, push-start button, heated outside mirrors and Low-speed Pre-collision Safety System with autonomous emergency braking. Stepping up to the XLE trim gives you faux leather seats along with automatic wipers/climate control.

Mazda is also going to be the engine donor for the US-spec Yaris. What you get is a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated SkyActiv-G petrol motor which puts out 106 PS and 140 Nm of torque. Standard across the range will be the 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission.

Well, the Yaris is undoubtedly an interesting model with specific regions having entirely different cars. However, in the future, all Yaris models will be based on the Mazda 2, with the US being the first market.