Talking about the Toyota ZR Yaris five-door hatchback – a striking, six model range with two models gaining Toyota’s latest generation Hybrid technology. All feature new 1.5-litre three-cylinder engines – I tested the ZR hybrid with the 67kW petrol three-cylinder engine supplemented by a 59kW electric motor generator and a compact lithium-ion battery. The price, $32,100 or over $35,000 drive-away. A healthy amount for a small five-door hatch. Toyota claim new engine and safety technology, it has 8 airbags alone, plus a completely new body structure to meet stringent new criteria in meeting a five-star ANCAP safety rating has pushed the Yaris’s price into new territory. This alone has seen sales considerably diminish this year.

How did I find it however – brilliant in one word – I like the style, the ride and handling, so good you would think you are in a bigger car, the economy impressive , I managed 3.9L/100km while the passive and active safety features are without peer in the light car class. But sadly, the price negates all of the benefits and there’s small omissions.

No seat height adjustment on the passenger seat and the lack of air vents for the rear passengers should be a feature on a $32,000 small car. But not long after the initial price shock the Toyota Yaris ZR hybrid hatch will still put a smile on your face.

I’m David Berthon

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