Toyota officially presented the all-new Yaris hatchback at the 2019 New York Auto Show. While several automakers have abandoned subcompact cars as consumers are more inclined towards SUVs and crossovers, Toyota continues to show its confidence. However in order to reduce costs, the company is relying more heavily on its partnership with Mazda.
Related: Toyota to Premiere Mazda-based Yaris Hatchback at NYAS 2019
The all-new Yaris is apparently based on Mazda-2, which is also known as Mazda Demio in certain markets. Toyota’s version however, has a massive grille upfront differentiating itself from the signature rotary grille of its Mazda sibling. The interior, apart from steering wheel off course, is exactly the same as Mazda-2.
The new Mazda-based Yaris Hatchback utilize a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine under its hood creating 106 hp sending power to the front wheels through a standard-issue 6-speed automatic gearbox.
Related: New Toyota Corolla GR Sport & Trek Revealed
The new Yaris features an array of standard equipment including 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, fog lights, body-colored power outside mirrors, and a chrome exhaust tip. Inside there will be a 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and voice recognition built into the infotainment system. Safety systems including ABS, airbags, automatic emergency braking and a rear backup camera will also be offered as standard equipment.
Meanwhile the Mazda-2 was also on display at the recently held 2019 Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) and one could easily spot the similarities between the two. It will however be interesting to see how the next generation Vitz will look like, since for the last two generations the Yaris and Vitz are more or less the same vehicles, the latter being offered in Japanese domestic market and end up in Pakistan as used-import.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
