Toyota Australia has released details of its new-look five-door only Yaris range, announcing greater specification and only minimal price rises.

TOYOTA HAS LAUNCHED its new-look five-door only Yaris which promises improved ride and handling thanks to a stiffer body and retuned suspension. Key changes across the range include standard-fitment of: reversing camera, cruise control, new design 15-inch wheels and a 6.1-inch display audio screen that responds to touch, drag and flick operation.

According to Toyota, every Yaris now includes telescopic steering-column adjustment and automatic flashing of the hazard lights under emergency braking.
Revised grades for the 2015 Yaris kick off with the Ascent, now fitted with 15-inch steel wheels instead of 14-inch. Toyota claims the additional standard features add up to more than $2000 in extra value, yet the price stays at the current model’s $15,690 (+ORC).

Mid-level SX and range-topping ZR, both powered by 1.5-litre engines, have seen a slight price rise of $400 over their predecessors; the SX gets around $1000-worth of new features, including reversing camera, fog lights, rear and side privacy glass and new wheel covers (priced from $17,790+ORC).

The top-of-the-range Yaris ZR (pictured) gets auto-levelling LED head-lights, rear spoiler and diffuser, side skirts and Toyota Link. The price is up by $1300 to $22,690 (+ORC).

Toyota Australia executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the Japanese-built and European-styled Yaris hatch is pitched at customers wanting a flexible, spacious interior with the convenience of a compact exterior.

“The latest update to Yaris hatch will broaden its appeal, making it even more compelling as a stylish, affordable and economical car that promises to deliver a lot of fun to its owners,” Mr Cramb said.

“Standard reversing camera, cruise control and seven airbags emphasise the car’s inherent safety. Clever features such as innovative storage spaces, a large touch-screen audio display and available connected mobility make the new-look Yaris an even smarter choice for customers.”

While previous models had been criticised for poor noise and vibration handling, Toyota claims the 2015 Yaris is more rigid than its predecessor thanks to additional spot welds which helps reduce vibration “the use of improved seals and the increased surface area and thickness of sound-absorbing materials reduce the amount of noise entering the cabin, as does a new cowl louvre that cuts air turbulence at the base of the windscreen”.

In terms of safety, Yaris receives seven airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag), as well as vehicle stability and traction control, and ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.

The upgraded Yaris hatch range is covered by capped-price servicing, at a maximum of $130 per service.