android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance

Competition in the eco car market is stronger than ever, and market leader Toyota has made sure of maintaining its lead with the all-new Yaris ATIV sedan that comes with attractive packaging as well as improved performance.

android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance

The new Yaris is result of a 5 billion baht investment at the Gateway plant in Chachoengsao province, where it is produced for both the domestic and export markets. Toyota says that it will export the Yaris ATIV to over 35 markets around the world.

This is the second-generation Yaris ATIV — the first gen was the best-selling eco car in Thailand with accumulated sales of 133,000 units since it was launched in 2017.

The ATIV is offered in four grades with prices ranging from 539,000 baht for the baseline Sport to 689,000 baht for the Premium Luxury featured in this review.

It will also be offered as a five-door hatchback, and according to a Toyota insider, there are future plans for hybrid and turbocharged 1.2-litre engines.

Design

The new Yaris ATIV is larger than its predecessor as it also replaces the 1.5-litre Vios in Toyota’s passenger car line-up. The wheelbase has been extended from 2,550mm to 2,620mm, with the wheels being pushed out to the corners as the body length remains the same at 4,425mm. Meanwhile, the width has grown by 10mm and the car is 5mm taller.

The front-end design is accentuated by the muscular bonnet, sleek LED headlights and large glossy black front grille. The glossy black garnish on both corners of the spoiler (Toyota calls it the vortex generator) looks super stylish and actually serves as air vents leading to the front wheels.

The ATIV takes on a fastback body style that’s popular among European brands. Apart from an elegant appearance, there are also other benefits such as a low Cd value of 0.284. There are 16in two-tone alloy wheels with 195/60 tyres fitted as standard across the range.

The fastback deign gives the rear end an elegant look, enhanced by LED guiding tail lights. The glossy black garnish is also present, along with a small diffusor offering a touch of sportiness. The luggage compartment is wide and deep, providing decent storage space for a car in this class.

android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance
android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance

The interior is pretty impressive, particularly the red leather upholstery that lights up the cabin. The diamond-cut seat stitching adds to the luxury, although the front seats do not come with power adjustment. The front console, lower console and armrest also get the red leather treatment, which is a great improvement over the fake stitching design concept used by Toyota in previous models.

For the new Yaris, Toyota has thrown in a 7-inch digital instrument cluster (top three trim levels) with four display choices. The multi-function steering wheel (adjustable for reach and rake) not only has controls for the audio system but also for drive modes (sport or eco) as well as various other functions such as panoramic camera and adaptive cruise control.

There’s a 9-inch centre touchscreen (8-inch for the lowest trim) with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (via cable) that works fine, although the graphics looks pretty outdated. The picture quality from the 360-degree camera is acceptable and there are also guiding lines for reverse parking.

Below the air-conditioner controls are two USB ports up front plus a 12V outlet, as well as seatbelt reminders. Unfortunately there’s not much storage space in this area and the cupholders have been relocated to below the side air vents. This allow drinks to be cooled, which is great unless you’re having hot drinks.

The gearshift gets more leather and the housing comes in piano black trim. Space between the front seats is increased thanks to the use of an electronic parking brake, and there are also controls for auto brake hold as well as interior lighting (there’s as many as 64 colours to choose from).

In terms of interior space, the Yaris ATIV is just average. While front passengers have enough legroom and headroom, the rear passengers don’t get much of either, and it’s a pity Toyota has not thrown in a rear armrest at the back. Nevertheless rear passengers do get air vents and two USB ports.

android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance
android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance

Safety

The Yaris ATIV comes with a long list of safety features that are usually offered in more expensive cars, with the Premium Luxury trim coming with the main package.

The intelligent safety package includes a pre-collision system, land departure alert, front departure alert, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitor, automatic high beam, all-speed adaptive cruise control, panoramic view camera and even a front video camera. There are also hill start assist, vehicle stability control and six airbags.

Performance

The only component not new in the all-new Yaris ATIV is its powerplant, which has been carried over from the previous generation. The re-tuned engine now produces 94hp (up from 92hp) and 110Nm (up from 109Nm) and gets the car around smoothly, being partnered with a new CVT.

While the output may seem reasonable for an eco car, this is no match against the 1.5-litre engine offered in the Vios (108hp, 140Nm), so you’ll have to be content with less performance.

Nevertheless the transmission does bring out the most out of the 1.2-litre engine, with the sport mode giving satisfactory highway performance. Manual mode is also available with upshift and downshift being done via the gear lever (no shift paddles).

The strong point of the smaller engine is in fact the fuel economy and emission levels. At 23.3kpl the Yaris ATIV is economical to use, and it’s able to meet stringent Eco Car emission requirements the 1.5-litre engine would find difficult to pass.

android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance
android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance

While the engine didn’t really stand out, the steering and suspension setup was above expectations.

The electric steering feels super beefy which is unusual for a car in this class, and it’s just a pity that there’s some slack in the middle, taking out much of the sharpness.

Meanwhile, the front strut and rear torsion beam with coil spring suspension (stabiliser front and rear) has been nicely tuned, offering surprisingly good comfort levels. Cracks and bumps on the road are absorbed effectively, which isn’t something you’d expect from an eco car costing this much.

At higher speeds the Yaris ATIV offers a pleasant ride and doesn’t get rattled easily, even when driving through strong crosswinds. This is one eco car that can be driven fast confidently thanks to a solid suspension setup, while disc brakes front and rear offer good stopping power as well.

Verdict

Toyota has actually done a great job with the new Yaris ATIV which comes with super-attractive packaging while maintaining highly competitive pricing.

Pros: Attractive design, intelligent safety, great suspension Cons: Old engine, average interior space

TOYOTA YARIS ATIV PREMIUM LUXURY

Price: 689,000 baht

Engine: 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve

Displacement: 1,197cc

Max power: 94hp@6,000rpm

Max torque: 110Nm@4,400rpm

Transmission: CVT

android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance
android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance
android, toyota eyes top thai spot  expectations are high for the new yaris ativ, with upgrades in comfort and performance

Keyword: Toyota eyes top Thai spot Expectations are high for the new Yaris ATIV, with upgrades in comfort and performance

CAR'S NEWS RELATED

Here’s Everything You Get In The Base 2024 Toyota Tacoma

The steel wheels say “work truck,” but adaptive cruise and push-button start were the stuff of luxury cars only a few years ago.

View more: Here’s Everything You Get In The Base 2024 Toyota Tacoma

Toyota to sell massive $4.7B stake in top supplier as it looks to catch up in EV race

Toyota is securing substantial funding as it looks to catch up in the EV race. Sources close to the matter say Toyota and its affiliates will sell a stake of around $4.7B in Denso, the second-largest global auto supplier. Toyota plans to sell around 10% (roughly $4.7 billion) of ...

View more: Toyota to sell massive $4.7B stake in top supplier as it looks to catch up in EV race

The Crown Signia Is A Wagon Regardless Of What Toyota Says

Image: Toyota American car buyers, for the most part, are not fans of wagons. The long roof body style has almost disappeared from the U.S. car market with only a few models remaining. There is the ever-popular Subaru Outback, and some more expensive options from Audi, Mercedes, and Volvo. ...

View more: The Crown Signia Is A Wagon Regardless Of What Toyota Says

Five most affordable automatic cars in South Africa

Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL Auto – R188,900 Renault Kwid 1.0 Zen Auto – R212,999 Proton Saga 1.3 Standard Auto – R224,900 Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GL Auto – R225,900 Toyota Vitz 1.0 XR Auto – R239,900 When it comes to city driving, an automatic gearbox is one of the best ...

View more: Five most affordable automatic cars in South Africa

2024 Toyota Tacoma First Drive: A Sure Bet Remains So

•    Auto123 gets in a first drive of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. Toronto, ON – This past May, Toyota unveiled the new generation of its Tacoma pickup truck. That happened in Hawaii, an exotic locale to be sure, but it happens to be where the model has been the best-selling ...

View more: 2024 Toyota Tacoma First Drive: A Sure Bet Remains So

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Starts At $32,995

It’s still one of the most affordable trucks in the segment.

View more: The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Starts At $32,995

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Adds Some Polish But Keeps The Fun

Thanks to a torquey, 270-hp four-cylinder and an available six-speed manual, the new Taco is a charmer.

View more: The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Adds Some Polish But Keeps The Fun

Toyota Selling Shorty Land Cruiser 70 For $46,000 But There’s A Catch

The Land Cruiser 70 Series will turn 40 next year but it's still going strong.

View more: Toyota Selling Shorty Land Cruiser 70 For $46,000 But There’s A Catch

Exclusive: Toyota group companies plan $4.7 billion sale of Denso stake

2024 Toyota Camry NASCAR Cup Series Contender Gets The Road Car's New Looks

The Only New Toyota Camry That Won't Be A Hybrid Is Racing In NASCAR

New Toyota Hilux Champ – Engines and interior revealed

You Can Buy Toyota's Tiny $13,000 Work Truck But Not In The US

Kia Sonet Vs Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder Price, Engine Specs & Dimensions Comparison

The Toyota Corolla GR Sport - Unassuming, Uncompromising Thrills

Affordable hatchbacks with the best warranties in South Africa

Next-gen Ford Mustang – The competitors at R1.5 million

5 car brands South Africa’s middle class loves

Toyota and Solid-State Batteries for EVs: Patience Is In Order

Toyota is still greenwashing after change in leadership

OTHER CAR NEWS

; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel