There was so much new metal at this year's
Paris Motor Show that we nearly missed the launch of a new flagship for the Toyota Yaris range, the new TS model.
Like many of the latest junior hot hatches, the new Yaris TS eschews the
Max Power image in exchange for a more subtly sporting image. The most obvious change at the front is the fitment of a deeper bumper with circular fog lights, though the black mesh grille is unique to the TS and the headlights feature darkened surrounds. The side view shows off the standard 17-inch alloys, side skirts and restrained rear spoiler, while the rear gains a new design of bumper that incorporates large fog lights and the sports exhaust. The rear lights also feature a new style.
Changes to the interior marking the Yaris TS out from the rest of the range include sports seats, a leather-rimmed steering wheel, aluminium-look trim and amber lighting for the instruments.
So that's the aesthetic side of things covered; you're probably wondering what's happening underneath. The Yaris TS is powered by what Toyota calls an "all-new" 1.8-litre engine. The VVT-i variable valve timing system has been extended to cover both inlet and exhaust valves, which should enhance the engine's flexibility, as well as improve fuel economy. Claims include 37.7mpg on the Combined Cycle and CO
2 emissions of 178g/km.
On the performance side of things, this engine pushes out 130bhp and 128lb.ft of torque, which results in a 0-62mph time of 9.3 seconds and 120mph flat-out. It remains to be seen where the Yaris TS will fit into the market in terms of price, but likely rivals include the new
Suzuki Swift Sport and
Ford's Fiesta ST. The price will be announced closer to the car's launch in the UK in February. Watch out for our review on the
Toyota Road Tests page early in 2007.
Shane O' Donoghue - 7 Oct 2006