"This new addition to the Toyota range also demonstrates the company’s support towards the government’s aspiration for better localisation in vehicle production", said UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K.
From left: UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Akio Takeyama, Jana and Ravindran K during the launch of the new Yaris.
With the company targeting to sell 75,000 units this year, choices start with the entry-level 1.5J that's been priced at RM70,888 (on-the-road without insurance) and is followed by the mid-range 1.5E priced similarly at RM76,888 before ending with the range-topping 1.5G at RM83,888.
For peace of mind, a five-year unlimited mileage warranty covers this B-segment hatchback and can be had in five colour choices of Super White II, Red Mica Metallic, Attitude Black, Silver Metallic and of course signature Citrus Mica Metallic.
The engine is a 1.5-litre (1,496cc) 2NR-FE engine with an integrated control unit to smoothen out power delivery as well as an enhanced Flex Lock-Up Control to help save fuel when decelerating, while stopping power comes from a pair of front ventilated disc brakes and rear drum brakes.
Power for the front wheels is rated at 107PS at 6,000rpm and 140Nm at 4,200rpm and is managed by a continuously variable transmission with seven virtual gear shift-points.
According to the Japanese carmaker, the Yaris has been fitted with more sound insulation materials around the engine compartment and floor as well as expansion foam in the structures and sponges at the seals to help reduce noise, vibrations and harshness levels.
The suspension system consists of front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam that works with the usual front and rear stabilizer bars found in all modern-day cars.
In terms of standard fixtures and fittings, the 1.5J variant features 15-inch wheels with 185/60 series tyres, shark-fin antenna, halogen headlamps with Follow-Me-Home function, LED daytime running lights, rear drum brakes and power-adjustable door mirrors with integrated turn signals.
Inside, the cabin gets keyless-entry (button on driver's door handle) with push-start button, fabric upholstered seats, two USB charging ports, large cup-holders, 60:40-split rear backrests, tonneau cover and a four-speaker 2DIN audio system with CD/radio/AUX/USB and Bluetooth connectivity.
For safety, the new Yaris has been awarded a full five-star rating from Asean NCAP and has been equipped with seven airbags, vehicle stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, antilock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, ISOFIX tether points, speed-sensitive auto-lock doors and impact-sensing auto-unlock doors.
The 1.5E variant gets larger 16-inch wheels with 195/50 series tyres, LED rear light clusters, three drive modes (Eco, Normal and Sport), automatic fold and unfold door mirrors as well as a front digital video recorder with front collision warning and lane departure warning.
Also, it has a 6.8-inch DVD-AVX display system with Bluetooth connectivity, reverse camera, panoramic view monitor and a "mirror" function for Android and iOS devices which connect via USB.
In the 1.5G variant, it gets rear disc brakes, six speakers instead of four, leather and wood combination steering wheel (with controls), a 4.2-inch full-colour multi-information display, instrument-cluster staging, automatic climate controls, blind spot monitoring system, rear cross-traffic alert and an automatic electrochromic rear-view mirror.
During the launch, it was announced that local actress and singer Jana Nick who has been involved in the Toyota Gazoo Racing racer for two seasons now is the new brand ambassador for the new Yaris.
"I urge you to get behind the wheel of the all-new Toyota Yaris and feel the excitement and thrill for yourself! I assure you that you will not be disappointed," added Ravindran.
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