Not as 'cute' as the Yaris we've known before this, but somewhat more 'masculine' in its design approach, Toyota is taking aim at a wider audience with its all-new Yaris.
The new hatchback is being launched in South Africa as we write this and while our full driving impressions will be available on Monday, take a glance at the local pricing and some basic information in the meantime.
As before, the new Yaris is available in three-door and five-door body styles, although the former is available in a far wider range of models this time around. Once again, engine choices are limited to 1-litre and 1.3-litre petrol units, although the 1.3 is somewhat perkier than before, with 73kW and 125Nm on tap while the 1.0 still puts out 51kW and 93Nm.
The bigger engine also moves up a notch on the gearbox front, with a six-speed manual as standard and a new CVT continuously variable transmission being available on certain models.
There are three trim levels to choose from. The Xi, the most basic of these, seems well endowed with items like a six-speaker audio system, central locking and trip computer as standard, but shamefully you still have to pay extra for air conditioning. Mid-range XS adds that essential aircon, as well as alloy wheels and front electric windows among other additions and XR really lays on the good stuff, with a touchscreen sound system, climate control, auto lights and wipers being among these.
However the prices get rather steep once you've ticked a comfortable specification and the bigger engine that you're surely going to need at Reef altitudes. They do include a four-year/60 000km service plan, however.
THE BILL:
1.0 Xi 3-dr - R124 000
1.0 Xi 5-dr - R130 000
1.0 XS 3-dr - R141 000
1.0 XS 5-dr - R147 400
1.0 XR 3-dr - R151 100
1.0 XR 5-dr - R157 900
1.3 Xi 3-dr - R157 000
1.3 Xi 5-dr - R163 000
1.3 XS 3-dr - R171 600
1.3 XS 5-dr - R177 600
1.3 XS 5-dr CVT - R189 000
1.3 XR 3-dr - R203 700
1.3 XR 5-dr - R200 600