Toyota claims to have improved visibility by setting the instrument panel lower and pulling the A-pillars further back relative to the driver. We feel the overall efficacy of these measures is marginal where the view forward is concerned, but the new Yaris certainly does feel spacious and mature from within – at least for front-seat occupants, who are now set 21mm lower than before.
The driver also benefits from adjustment for reach as well as rake in the steering column, so it is easy to find a comfortable and supportive position. The leather-trimmed steering wheel is particularly nice to hold, too, and wouldn’t even feel out of place in, say, the GR Toyota Supra.
In design terms, Toyota has partly reinstated the playful atmosphere the Yaris was once known for – the ‘binocular’ dial arrangement within the instrument binnacle and curvaceous dashboard moulding are two obvious examples – but it has also injected some class into the cabin. It isn’t difficult to find hard plastics (not least on the cheap-feeling door handles) but interesting new fabrics, softer plastics and rubberised surfaces have been deployed among the various surfaces and storage cubbies.
The general curvature of the dashboard and door panels is also pleasing and is a departure from more staid European rivals – the recently rejuvenated French brands notwithstanding. Broadly speaking, perceived quality has also improved, in line with the new generation of Toyota’s larger hatchback, the Toyota Corolla.
