Yaris gets Sport-T (Toyota Yaris in general)

Member Name: nlingwood

Product:	Toyota Yaris in general
Date:	28/07/00 (1949 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Thrilling drive, Great looks, Affordable to run

Disadvantages: Small boot

Since I first wrote about the Yaris last year, the range has been changed, most dramatically by the addition of a 'warm hatch' model. So its time to update that op.

To cash in on their motor-sport activities, including entering Formula 1 in 2002, Toyota are creating a new T-sport range. Starting with the Yaris, they plan to create a faster, more dramatic model of each of their cars.

The Yaris T-sport was announced in autumn 2000, and I was fortunate enough to see it at the Motorshow in Birmingham NEC. The stylish ultra-modern looks of the standard Yaris are enhanced by side skirts and larger bumpers from and rear. Together with a black grille, rear spoiler and six-spoke 15" wheels they sport up the little hatchback.
Inside, the trim has also been changed, with black cloth sports seats. White dials replace the futuristic digital display of other models, although the odometer looks tacked on as an afterthought. There is also a black/gray leather steering wheel and some carbon-fibre effect panels in the doors. I prefer the exterior to interior styling, but everything works and is comfortable. What could be a concern is that the (manual) sunroof steals some headroom. The drivers seat does adjust vertically, but it you're over six foot things might be tight.
Rear space is surprisingly generous for a car just twelve feet long, although the T-sport is only available as a 3-door. There is definitely enough room for two rear passengers of medium size - unless you need much bootspace. The sliding bench means you get to choose between kneecaps and luggage, but at least there is a choice.

Right, enough about practicality and all the boring stuff. After all, the basic model has the same space for 5 grand less. What makes the T-sport special - even more than the looks - is what Toyota's engineers have been up to. By squeezing a 1.5 litre engine under the bonnet they've created a 'pocket rocket' that is a thrill t
o drive.
One hundred and five horsepower isn't much nowadays, but the T-sport makes the most of them. The sports gearing gives impressive acceleration, although at the price of engine noise cruising at motorway speeds. But hearing the revy engine work, just like the firmed-up sports suspension is integral to the experience. This car turns, accelerates or stops just as, and when, you demand. Maybe some of the softness and comfort of models like the CDX is lost, but the reward (for me) is pure enjoyment.

So what kind of sacrifices do you make for choosing the T-sport? Its is the most expensive Yaris, but its also the best equipped. The body-kit looks great, while it is the only version so far to boast 4 airbags and all-round disc brakes. The sunroof and air-conditioning are welcome little luxuries (especially in the brief warm spell recently). And the standard alarm is also reassuring.
Twelve thousand pounds is a lot for a small car, but trade guides suggest the Yaris is best among the small cars at holding its value. An insurance group of 7 (lower than rivals like the 206 and Fiesta), plus 40+ miles to the gallon keep running costs down. I have a long way to go before any servicing is required (every 20000 miles, with oil-changes every 10000), but as a Toyota reliability should be strong. After all, the Yaris came second in this year's JD power customer satisfaction survey.

So do I have any criticisms? Not much so far. Even on poor country roads the suspension isn't intolerable, and the only rattles come from items rolling in the many cubbyholes. High demand, especially when they are so new, means discounts are small (most dealers were willing to include the metallic paint, worth 275, for free which I was happy with). The stereo is adequate, but could really do with more than 4 speakers (I'm already making plans in that direction). But none of these can detract from a car that combines 'fun' and 'sensible' eff
ortlessly.

Summary: