The MPV-like forward placement of the windscreen pillars and dashboard gives an even more commanding driving position than before. Initially it seems overly upright, but because the instrument pack isn’t viewed through the steering wheel, the angle and reach of the steering column and the backrest can be adjusted to give a slightly more laid-back position.
Two six-footers can comfortably sit in tandem with ample elbow-, knee- and footroom. Thoughtfully, the 60/40 split rear seats can slide independently back and forth through 150mm, so if you’ve got kids rather than a couple of half-backs in the rear, you can maximise the boot space.
The head restraints are also part of the design that allows the rear seats to fold perfectly flat, giving what Toyota claims is the roomiest and most practical cargo space in the class. There is also additional storage space under the boot floor. Despite being taller than the old Yaris, headroom in the rear is only just adequate for a six-footer with the backrest upright; taller passengers will probably have to recline the seat a few degrees to stop their heads brushing the roof lining. At least they can: each rear backrest can be reclined through 10 degrees.
Standard equipment includes remote central locking, electrically adjustable door mirrors, CD player, driver and passenger airbags, electric front windows and rear seats that individually adjust. Additional features on T3 models include side, curtain and driver’s knee airbags, leather-trimmed steering wheel with auxiliary audio controls, air-con and an upgraded sound system that can play MP3 files stored on disc.
Passive safety is top notch. Despite a short front overhang, the Yaris gained a maximum five-star rating for occupant protection in Euro NCAP crash testing. Up to seven airbags can be specified, including the sector’s first driver’s knee airbag – standard on all but the entry-level T2.
