Under the hood of a 2012 Yaris

[CTScott]

This morning I was coming out of Home Depot and noticed that the Toyota dealer across the street had an Absolutely Red 2012 Yaris sitting out front, so I had to pop in and kick the tires (and take some pics).

I test drove it and it really feels and sounds just like the 2nd gen. I personally don't like having the cluster back under the steering wheel, but that's one of those changes that is completely a matter of personal preference.

With the base L package, the car had manual widows, but it was interesting to see that it had power door locks.


Here are some pics from the outside:

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012FrontLeft.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012Front.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012Rear.jpg


Here's a close-up of the new giant front wiper. It looks huge from the outside, but driving it with the wiper going I didn't find any more distracting than with the 2 wipers:

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012Wiper.jpg

Here's the new antenna. I like it better than the mount and whip on the 2nd gen and might just have to order one:

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012Antenna.jpg


Here are some pics of the interior (this was a totally base L model with the light gray seats and a non-split rear seat):

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012FrontSeat.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012RearSeat.jpg


Here's the cluster and radio. Note that the Aux Jack is now located in the upper right corner of the inside of the glove box:

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012Cluster.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012Radio.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012AuxJack.jpg


And, here are some under the hood shots. Basically it seems pretty well identical under here, with the exception of a new ECM (with different connectors), and a larger right side secondary fuse/relay box. The air intake and manifold are identical, so aftermarket intakes that fit the 2nd gen should fit the 3rd gen. Also, it looks like there is still plenty of room to bolt a Blitz Supercharger on, in place of the intake manifold.


http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012UnderHoodFull.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012UnderHoodCenter.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012UnderHoodLeft.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012UnderHoodRight.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/2012UnderHoodECM.jpg


After I test drove the red one and spoke with the sales person for a bit, he mentioned that two more had come in on a truck this morning, so I took a ride around back and found a Super White L and a Wave Line Pearl L sitting there:

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/WaveLinePearlandSuperWhite-Front.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/WaveLinePearlandSuperWhite-FrontRight.jpg

http://i372.photobucket.com/albums/oo163/ctscott329/2012%20Yaris/WaveLinePearl-FrontLeft.jpg

[mr9865]

You are the bomb Scott!

[Chuck G]

Way cool!!

[yaris 2sz]

may i?

http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac248/taratsa/PA080016.jpg
http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac248/taratsa/PA080014.jpg
http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac248/taratsa/PA080013.jpg
http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac248/taratsa/PA080012.jpg
http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac248/taratsa/PA080011.jpg
http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac248/taratsa/PA080010.jpg
http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac248/taratsa/PA080006.jpg

[A-Dingo-Ate-My-Baby]

WHY CAN'T USA HAVE NICE THINGS?:cry:

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

WHY CAN'T USA HAVE NICE THINGS?:cry:

Because of politicians.

Waveline pearl actually doesn't look like a woman's color in those pics. I'll have to see it in person, but it appears that I now have four colors to chose from for my '12 Yaris when I buy it.

Thanks for the photos all!

[CTScott]

Because of politicians.

Waveline pearl actually doesn't look like a woman's color in those pics. I'll have to see it in person, but it appears that I now have four colors to chose from for my '12 Yaris when I buy it.

Thanks for the photos all!

I'm on the fence on Wave Line, after seeing it in person. It kind of reminds me of the light blue color of my '78 Buick Skylark, that I inherited from my grandmother (which looked like a grandma car).

[roxy1]

i took a good long test drive in a base model L with stick. yes, the acceleration and stick in the mud long rubbery shifter is identical to the previous yaris...as expected. (worst looking shifter in any car manufactured today)

i much prefer the dash layout. now, as cheap looking as the previous interior was, i think the plastic used for that dash should have been used here. i dont know where they got this plastic...it has a look like a cat lightly scratched it from the winshield and backward. it just doesnt look like something that belongs in a car....ultra chincy looking. in fact, of all the sub $20k cars ive test driven in the past 20 years the plastic used here is the most awful looking thing ive ever seen. maybe the le and se have a different looking plastic. at least the previous gen plastic had a texture of plastic that looked like it belonged in an automobile.

the old yaris has much better fold flat rear seats. these rear seats dont fold as flat or as flush. rpm's at 70 mph the same as previously..right at 3k. according to the avg mpg readout, this yaris will be even better on gas....27 mile test drive (and i was moderately gentle with half light suburban and half hwy returned 43.6 mpg's).

it didnt seem any quieter than the previous gen...same amount of engine and road noise, but still not as bad as a honda fit (yes even the 12 fit).

i could never get comfortable as the seats have little bolstering and the steering wheel does not telescope (same problem with my previous yaris. legs comfortable, wheel to far away. wheel just right, legs squished too much.)

cup holder position..quite awful...in front of the shifter is not where you want to keep reaching for your drink. they could have made room in the center of the seats for at least one cupholder.

for any 07-11 owners, i really dont see anything that will make you want to change unless you really dig the dash layout or exterior changes.

this car was $15,050. i think it should be priced around $13k and compete with the versa. for $15,500 one could get a subcompact with a fair amount more interior room, a way nicer interior, power windows, satellite radio, higher mileage, a noticeably quieter ride, alot more power.

if i had my 07 yaris hatch, no chance in h3ll this new one would tempt me at all....and i do think the dash layout and exterior looks are better, but the rest is either the same or worse than the previous gen.

[Chuck G]

I'm even happier with my sedan after checking out the 2012's

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

I'm on the fence on Wave Line, after seeing it in person. It kind of reminds me of the light blue color of my '78 Buick Skylark, that I inherited from my grandmother (which looked like a grandma car).

I will have to see it in person, of course. I really also dig the magnetic grey metallic, lagoon blue mica, and blazing blue pearl.

Nice to have so many cool colors, instead of just red, blue, white, black and silver. Different can indeed be good, vive la différence, and all that.


i took a good long test drive in a base model L with stick. yes, the acceleration and stick in the mud long rubbery shifter is identical to the previous yaris...as expected. (worst looking shifter in any car manufactured today)

i much prefer the dash layout. now, as cheap looking as the previous interior was, i think the plastic used for that dash should have been used here. i dont know where they got this plastic...it has a look like a cat lightly scratched it from the winshield and backward. it just doesnt look like something that belongs in a car....ultra chincy looking. in fact, of all the sub $20k cars ive test driven in the past 20 years the plastic used here is the most awful looking thing ive ever seen. maybe the le and se have a different looking plastic. at least the previous gen plastic had a texture of plastic that looked like it belonged in an automobile.

the old yaris has much better fold flat rear seats. these rear seats dont fold as flat or as flush. rpm's at 70 mph the same as previously..right at 3k. according to the avg mpg readout, this yaris will be even better on gas....27 mile test drive (and i was moderately gentle with half light suburban and half hwy returned 43.6 mpg's).

it didnt seem any quieter than the previous gen...same amount of engine and road noise, but still not as bad as a honda fit (yes even the 12 fit).

i could never get comfortable as the seats have little bolstering and the steering wheel does not telescope (same problem with my previous yaris. legs comfortable, wheel to far away. wheel just right, legs squished too much.)

cup holder position..quite awful...in front of the shifter is not where you want to keep reaching for your drink. they could have made room in the center of the seats for at least one cupholder.

for any 07-11 owners, i really dont see anything that will make you want to change unless you really dig the dash layout or exterior changes.

this car was $15,050. i think it should be priced around $13k and compete with the versa. for $15,500 one could get a subcompact with a fair amount more interior room, a way nicer interior, power windows, satellite radio, higher mileage, a noticeably quieter ride, alot more power.

if i had my 07 yaris hatch, no chance in h3ll this new one would tempt me at all....and i do think the dash layout and exterior looks are better, but the rest is either the same or worse than the previous gen.

I respectfully see it differently than you do. I find it amazing that with the strong yen, weak dollar, etc...that Toyota can even sell this car for this price, especially when the $100 million or so it no doubt cost to heavily refresh this subcompact.

Is the '12 Yaris going to be the most advanced with direct injection, 40mpg highway, 6-speed transmissions, etc.? No, more in the middle of the pack, compared to most of the other new cars in it's class, such as the new Accent, Fiesta, Rio/Picanto, etc.

I recognize the obvious, but still...there is just something special about this little car, which is why I am here...and why I cannot wait to buy one in a few months.

The only thing I didn't like during my test drive was the heavy, vague steering, but no car is perfect, not even a Toyota.

[roxy1]

I will have to see it in person, of course. I really also dig the magnetic grey metallic, lagoon blue mica, and blazing blue pearl.

Nice to have so many cool colors, instead of just red, blue, white, black and silver. Different can indeed be good, vive la différence, and all that.




I respectfully see it differently than you do. I find it amazing that with the strong yen, weak dollar, etc...that Toyota can even sell this car for this price, especially when the $100 million or so it no doubt cost to heavily refresh this subcompact.

Is the '12 Yaris going to be the most advanced with direct injection, 40mpg highway, 6-speed transmissions, etc.? No, more in the middle of the pack, compared to most of the other new cars in it's class, such as the new Accent, Fiesta, Rio/Picanto, etc.

I.


heavily refreshed?? theres the rub. nothing about it feels that way except the change in interior/exterior look.

thing is, compared to the cars now in this class, i just cant say it in the middle of the pack. it falls short in most every way....maybe a little cheaper than some of those, but not by enough. if you go drive a base model accent hatch, you's be absolutely stunned that the yaris competes in the same class (and ive always been a toyota junkie, so i really dont like saying that).

the only car that feels and looks as cheap is the new versa.

what shocked me was the super cheap looking dash material.

if you look at pic #9 above you can see the what im talking about a little bit (look just above the dash vent).....in person it is really sad looking.

as hard as it is to believe, they actually cheapened the interior from the previous gen. it may appeal to more people because of the more conventional layout.

i dont mind toyota offering a cheap looking product. we know it will get good mileage and be dependable. however, the interior screams at you that you bought a really cheap car, and to me it screams about $13k.

i could see the SE being priced at $15,500, but not the base model stick.

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

heavily refreshed?? theres the rub. nothing about it feels that way except the change in interior/exterior look.

thing is, compared to the cars now in this class, i just cant say it in the middle of the pack. it falls short in most every way....maybe a little cheaper than some of those, but not by enough. if you go drive a base model accent hatch, you's be absolutely stunned that the yaris competes in the same class (and ive always been a toyota junkie, so i really dont like saying that).

the only car that feels and looks as cheap is the new versa.

what shocked me was the super cheap looking dash material.

if you look at pic #9 above you can see the what im talking about a little bit (look just above the dash vent).....in person it is really sad looking.

as hard as it is to believe, they actually cheapened the interior from the previous gen. it may appeal to more people because of the more conventional layout.

i dont mind toyota offering a cheap looking product. we know it will get good mileage and be dependable. however, the interior screams at you that you bought a really cheap car, and to me it screams about $13k.

i could see the SE being priced at $15,500, but not the base model stick.

This is going to be long, so I apologize to all of you. Let me make my case for the new Yaris, as apparently few in the auto media or auto message boards even care to try.

I respectfully feel differently. I think you are forgetting that this is a B-class car. It isn't going to have the interior of an Audi A8. If this were a Lexus LS you were reviewing, I would agree, but it isn't. What part of "B-segment car" do you not understand?

It has ABS, ESC, 9 freaking airbags, etc...cost has to be cut somewhere, and I am frankly surprised Toyota can build (and import) it at this price. This car has "red ink" all over it, unlike, say a Fiesta built in Mexico. But, if you dare to select "automatic" on the options list, your PowerShift tranny goes south well before the warranty runs out. Such nonsense is highly unlikely with the proven "old" drivetrain in the Yaris.

Having driven both the 2nd gen and now 3rd gen Yarii (?), I can say the interior gives off a sportier impression, which I like. Also, the interior panels have very even panel gaps, unlike the '09 base hatch I test drove a while ago.

Is the car going to have "hard plastic" interior pieces? Um, yes...it's a $15,000 car. Why do so many people complain that the dash of a subcompact car doesn't feel like silk and feather pillows? :bellyroll:

Here's a hint: the interior is designed to be hard-wearing.

I like simple. I like roll-up windows. There are fewer things to break, and the car is more affordable, and lighter. I don't want a "premium" compact (see Fiat 500). Where I live, the "cheap" Fiat 500 Pop model) is stickered at $18,000, and has an interior comparable to the Yaris when you look past all the shiny plastic bits pretending they are chrome. I'm not knocking the 500, but does anyone think it will last 100,000 miles before falling apart? Please. Just like VWs, fun to drive, nice-looking, but they don't last for the long haul, historically.

We enthusiasts forget that this is the cheapest car Toyota has on offer in my country (the U.S.). I'll take you one step further: If Toyota offered the 3-cylinder Aygo in the U.S. (as a 3-door 5-speed, natch), I would gladly give one a go, but that will never happen. Americans hardly accept 1.5 four-bangers, much less 1.0 three-lungers. Just ask my '94 Geo Metro about that last part...

With the currency issues, I can assure you that Toyota is probably breaking even on this car, perhaps even losing a couple hundred per unit (especially on the stripper L models that must have next to zero profit built-in). They are still building the Yaris for their CAFE fleet numbers, and to have something in this segment until the 4th gen Yaris is launched in a few years. Keep in mind, the Yaris is still built in Japan, not Mexico, like the aforementioned Versa. As I understand, Toyota has no factory there, so cannot lower costs through cheaper labor.

Could the '12 Yaris be more competitive? Oh, certainly.

I don't know about you, but the 1NZ-FE is a pretty solid little engine, smooth and still somewhat efficient, if a bit long-in-the-tooth.

I have no illusions that the '12 Yaris is going to be the hugest hit in it's class. In fact, I am pretty sure it will have a lukewarm reception, and demand will cool and they will collect dust on dealer lots. I can't control that.

What I can control is the decisions that I, as a consumer make about which car will be my first new car. For this choice, I will chose the '12 Yaris.

Why do I chose the Yaris? I wanted Ford to bring the 3-door Fiesta to the U.S., and instead they brought the 5-door and a stupid little sedan. They lost my sale, as I loved the interior and test-drive of this car. I fell in love with the 3-door's elegant looks and it was my screen saver for the longest time. I wanted to buy American for once, but the marketing idiots threw away my sale with the body styles on offer.

Exact story with Mazda and their awesome and "mechanically dated" 2 hatch. No 3-door, no sale Mazda. I also loved the "cheap", but simple and intuitive interior of the 2.

Toyota offers a 3-door that has reliability, high resale value in it's class, "good enough" economy, is comfortable, has no stupid infotainment gimmicks, a proper manual gearbox, and is on offer as a 3-door (why is it only Toyota and Fiat that offer 3-doors here?! We want 3-door hatches!) that no longer looks like a puking guppy...guess what? They will have my money.

It could be worse: I could get the Versa instead. Now that is a depressing car! I could also start listening to Lady Gaga and watching Jersey Shore. :laugh:

The Yaris isn't steak by any means, but it is Subway, and that's much better than McDonald's! :biggrin:

[daf62757]

I will have to see it in person, of course. I really also dig the magnetic grey metallic, lagoon blue mica, and blazing blue pearl.

Nice to have so many cool colors, instead of just red, blue, white, black and silver. Different can indeed be good, vive la différence, and all that.




I respectfully see it differently than you do. I find it amazing that with the strong yen, weak dollar, etc...that Toyota can even sell this car for this price, especially when the $100 million or so it no doubt cost to heavily refresh this subcompact.

Is the '12 Yaris going to be the most advanced with direct injection, 40mpg highway, 6-speed transmissions, etc.? No, more in the middle of the pack, compared to most of the other new cars in it's class, such as the new Accent, Fiesta, Rio/Picanto, etc.

I recognize the obvious, but still...there is just something special about this little car, which is why I am here...and why I cannot wait to buy one in a few months.

The only thing I didn't like during my test drive was the heavy, vague steering, but no car is perfect, not even a Toyota.

I don't believe it cost $100M to refresh the Yaris. The changes are not that great and the car is basically the same as the previous generation.

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

I don't believe it cost $100M to refresh the Yaris. The changes are not that great and the car is basically the same as the previous generation.

Federalizing is quite expensive for the US, EU, and Asia/Japan. Any major exterior changes require a whole battery of tests. You might be surprised how expensive it can be, even on such a cheap offering such as the Yaris.

Perhaps not $100 million, but at least $50 million. New tooling for factories, all the new interior bits need to be re-engineered for NVH, etc.

All that is carried over from the 2nd gen is the drivetrain and basic chassis/suspension/brake system. The exterior shell (including new glass), and interior are all new (with a few parts raided from the Scion parts bin, admittedly :biggrin:).

[roxy1]

im not complaining about the use of hard plastics in this class. they all have to do this. im talking about the bizarre texture of th plastic used (in the base model) and the awful looking rubbery shifter.

i like the exterior look better and the interior layout better on the new yaris...just not that awful paper mache looking plastic.

arguing that this is a b class car doesnt work because the fiesta, fit, and accent are all b class as well and those interior are WAY less cheap looking.

i could even live with the interior if toyota would have done some aero mods and gearing changes and just owned the segment in mpg's.

believe me, i get the whole minimalistic thing..its why i bought my 07 manual, roll up windows yaris in the first place. just dont try to price it in the same range of cars that offer more.

[anthpace]

I've been in the new Yaris, and test driven it. I still love my tiny 1Litre Vitz after driving it. - I do not like the fact that they removed almost all of the cubby holes that the 2nd Gen had, and also, to be honest, The sporty looks have ruined it's interior space in the rear. I'm 6" 1 and I fit with plenty of room in the back of my own Vitz. but in the new one, I always hit my head when entering, and my head touches the ceiling.

I'm a fan of the new seats though, Mine are great, but the New one's are slightly better feeling.

I feel that Toyota went with sporty looks and less practicality when it came to this model.

If I had to choose, I'd pick the 2nd Gen everytime. - it just looks much smarter on the inside, and if given a little Aftermarket love, or TRD Accessories, it looks good too.
- I Like the standard look of the car too, so I'm not being biased.

Toyota had to make up ground because of the PR damage that it had earlier this year, but they could have been a little more practical in terms of design.

The new dashboard texture is coming out all over the European range, it started in the iQ, then the Avensis. it works best in the Avensis, as it has a huge swooping dash, but on the new yaris, it just looks like it can get easily damaged with time. and one more thing, the grey insert in the European model feels like a REALLY thin layer of Vinyl, which can get torn very easily.

I'll be keeping my blue speedster for a long time to come.

[daf62757]

I've been in the new Yaris, and test driven it. I still love my tiny 1Litre Vitz after driving it. - I do not like the fact that they removed almost all of the cubby holes that the 2nd Gen had, and also, to be honest, The sporty looks have ruined it's interior space in the rear. I'm 6" 1 and I fit with plenty of room in the back of my own Vitz. but in the new one, I always hit my head when entering, and my head touches the ceiling.

I'm a fan of the new seats though, Mine are great, but the New one's are slightly better feeling.

I feel that Toyota went with sporty looks and less practicality when it came to this model.

If I had to choose, I'd pick the 2nd Gen everytime. - it just looks much smarter on the inside, and if given a little Aftermarket love, or TRD Accessories, it looks good too.
- I Like the standard look of the car too, so I'm not being biased.

Toyota had to make up ground because of the PR damage that it had earlier this year, but they could have been a little more practical in terms of design.

The new dashboard texture is coming out all over the European range, it started in the iQ, then the Avensis. it works best in the Avensis, as it has a huge swooping dash, but on the new yaris, it just looks like it can get easily damaged with time. and one more thing, the grey insert in the European model feels like a REALLY thin layer of Vinyl, which can get torn very easily.

I'll be keeping my blue speedster for a long time to come.

In your country, does Toyota offer any larger engines for the Yaris or are you limited to the 1L?

I wish the would offer the smaller engines here so we could get better gas mileage.

[Kal-El]

This is going to be long, so I apologize to all of you. Let me make my case for the new Yaris, as apparently few in the auto media or auto message boards even care to try.

I respectfully feel differently. I think you are forgetting that this is a B-class car. It isn't going to have the interior of an Audi A8. If this were a Lexus LS you were reviewing, I would agree, but it isn't. What part of "B-segment car" do you not understand?

It has ABS, ESC, 9 freaking airbags, etc...cost has to be cut somewhere, and I am frankly surprised Toyota can build (and import) it at this price. This car has "red ink" all over it, unlike, say a Fiesta built in Mexico. But, if you dare to select "automatic" on the options list, your PowerShift tranny goes south well before the warranty runs out. Such nonsense is highly unlikely with the proven "old" drivetrain in the Yaris.

Having driven both the 2nd gen and now 3rd gen Yarii (?), I can say the interior gives off a sportier impression, which I like. Also, the interior panels have very even panel gaps, unlike the '09 base hatch I test drove a while ago.

Is the car going to have "hard plastic" interior pieces? Um, yes...it's a $15,000 car. Why do so many people complain that the dash of a subcompact car doesn't feel like silk and feather pillows? :bellyroll:

Here's a hint: the interior is designed to be hard-wearing.

I like simple. I like roll-up windows. There are fewer things to break, and the car is more affordable, and lighter. I don't want a "premium" compact (see Fiat 500). Where I live, the "cheap" Fiat 500 Pop model) is stickered at $18,000, and has an interior comparable to the Yaris when you look past all the shiny plastic bits pretending they are chrome. I'm not knocking the 500, but does anyone think it will last 100,000 miles before falling apart? Please. Just like VWs, fun to drive, nice-looking, but they don't last for the long haul, historically.

We enthusiasts forget that this is the cheapest car Toyota has on offer in my country (the U.S.). I'll take you one step further: If Toyota offered the 3-cylinder Aygo in the U.S. (as a 3-door 5-speed, natch), I would gladly give one a go, but that will never happen. Americans hardly accept 1.5 four-bangers, much less 1.0 three-lungers. Just ask my '94 Geo Metro about that last part...

With the currency issues, I can assure you that Toyota is probably breaking even on this car, perhaps even losing a couple hundred per unit (especially on the stripper L models that must have next to zero profit built-in). They are still building the Yaris for their CAFE fleet numbers, and to have something in this segment until the 4th gen Yaris is launched in a few years. Keep in mind, the Yaris is still built in Japan, not Mexico, like the aforementioned Versa. As I understand, Toyota has no factory there, so cannot lower costs through cheaper labor.

Could the '12 Yaris be more competitive? Oh, certainly.

I don't know about you, but the 1NZ-FE is a pretty solid little engine, smooth and still somewhat efficient, if a bit long-in-the-tooth.

I have no illusions that the '12 Yaris is going to be the hugest hit in it's class. In fact, I am pretty sure it will have a lukewarm reception, and demand will cool and they will collect dust on dealer lots. I can't control that.

What I can control is the decisions that I, as a consumer make about which car will be my first new car. For this choice, I will chose the '12 Yaris.

Why do I chose the Yaris? I wanted Ford to bring the 3-door Fiesta to the U.S., and instead they brought the 5-door and a stupid little sedan. They lost my sale, as I loved the interior and test-drive of this car. I fell in love with the 3-door's elegant looks and it was my screen saver for the longest time. I wanted to buy American for once, but the marketing idiots threw away my sale with the body styles on offer.

Exact story with Mazda and their awesome and "mechanically dated" 2 hatch. No 3-door, no sale Mazda. I also loved the "cheap", but simple and intuitive interior of the 2.

Toyota offers a 3-door that has reliability, high resale value in it's class, "good enough" economy, is comfortable, has no stupid infotainment gimmicks, a proper manual gearbox, and is on offer as a 3-door (why is it only Toyota and Fiat that offer 3-doors here?! We want 3-door hatches!) that no longer looks like a puking guppy...guess what? They will have my money.

It could be worse: I could get the Versa instead. Now that is a depressing car! I could also start listening to Lady Gaga and watching Jersey Shore. :laugh:

The Yaris isn't steak by any means, but it is Subway, and that's much better than McDonald's! :biggrin:

Good post. :thumbsup:

I don't believe it cost $100M to refresh the Yaris. The changes are not that great and the car is basically the same as the previous generation.

It cost a lot more than a $100M to redesign the Yaris. Only the powertrain and a few other components carry over. Otherwise, it's a completely new car including a different wheelbase (which changes everything). This isn't just a facelift. Developing a new car costs $1-$6 BILLION! The 2012 Yaris probably close to a billion.

Check out this article...http://translogic.aolautos.com/2010/07/27/why-does-it-cost-so-much-for-automakers-to-develop-new-models/

im not complaining about the use of hard plastics in this class. they all have to do this. im talking about the bizarre texture of th plastic used (in the base model) and the awful looking rubbery shifter.

i like the exterior look better and the interior layout better on the new yaris...just not that awful paper mache looking plastic.

arguing that this is a b class car doesnt work because the fiesta, fit, and accent are all b class as well and those interior are WAY less cheap looking.

i could even live with the interior if toyota would have done some aero mods and gearing changes and just owned the segment in mpg's.

believe me, i get the whole minimalistic thing..its why i bought my 07 manual, roll up windows yaris in the first place. just dont try to price it in the same range of cars that offer more.

Just remember that as long as the Yaris is built in Japan, it will never compete on content and price simultaneously. Notice that the only other sub-compact car built in Japan and sold in the US is the Fit and it's the most expensive model. A sport starts at $17K. A plain looking stripped model is over $15K. The only way to effectively load up a sub-compact and sell it at a bargain price is to build it in Korea or Mexico. Even building it in America is more doable than importing a Japan built one (as GM is doing with the new Spark).

The primary advantage of the Japanese built Yaris and Fit? Unmatched reliability/dependability. Pretty good reason for me.

[Chuck G]

Good post. :thumbsup:



It cost a lot more than a $100M to redesign the Yaris. Only the powertrain and a few other components carry over. Otherwise, it's a completely new car including a different wheelbase (which changes everything). This isn't just a facelift. Developing a new car costs $1-$6 BILLION! The 2012 Yaris probably close to a billion.

Check out this article...http://translogic.aolautos.com/2010/07/27/why-does-it-cost-so-much-for-automakers-to-develop-new-models/



Just remember that as long as the Yaris is built in Japan, it will never compete on content and price simultaneously. Notice that the only other sub-compact car built in Japan and sold in the US is the Fit and it's the most expensive model. A sport starts at $17K. A plain looking stripped model is over $15K. The only way to effectively load up a sub-compact and sell it at a bargain price is to build it in Korea or Mexico. Even building it in America is more doable than importing a Japan built one (as GM is doing with the new Spark).

The primary advantage of the Japanese built Yaris and Fit? Unmatched reliability/dependability. Pretty good reason for me.

Good post. :thumbsup:

[roxy1]

).

The primary advantage of the Japanese built Yaris and Fit? Unmatched reliability/dependability. Pretty good reason for me.

that is what toyota and honda lovers could always bank on, and 10 yrs ago, that was a good argument. today the differences between honda/toyota and the rest just isnt that significant. just look at the most recent long term dependability studies. honda is behind hyundai. toyota is still high. most notable, however, is how much less of a difference there is between the top and the middle of the pack compared to 10 yrs ago...heck even 5 yrs ago.

id take anything built at the Ulsan plant in s korea as soon as a car built anywhere else.

you write that the yaris cant compete on content and price simultaneously. i would argue that it does not compete on either one individually either.

the sad thing is they spent all that money on a new gen yaris and very few changes, if any, make the car any better.....it feels and drives like a facelift. they could have saved a boatload of money and just changed the front fascia a little bit and accomplished the same thing, as the new model offer no tangible benefits (except the small mpg upgrade, which could have been achievable without major changes).

[daf62757]

Good post. :thumbsup:



It cost a lot more than a $100M to redesign the Yaris. Only the powertrain and a few other components carry over. Otherwise, it's a completely new car including a different wheelbase (which changes everything). This isn't just a facelift. Developing a new car costs $1-$6 BILLION! The 2012 Yaris probably close to a billion.

Check out this article...http://translogic.aolautos.com/2010/07/27/why-does-it-cost-so-much-for-automakers-to-develop-new-models/



Just remember that as long as the Yaris is built in Japan, it will never compete on content and price simultaneously. Notice that the only other sub-compact car built in Japan and sold in the US is the Fit and it's the most expensive model. A sport starts at $17K. A plain looking stripped model is over $15K. The only way to effectively load up a sub-compact and sell it at a bargain price is to build it in Korea or Mexico. Even building it in America is more doable than importing a Japan built one (as GM is doing with the new Spark).

The primary advantage of the Japanese built Yaris and Fit? Unmatched reliability/dependability. Pretty good reason for me.

I just don't buy the story that it is a complete redesign. 1 billion to redesign a car that isn't a money maker doesn't make any sense.

[daf62757]

that is what toyota and honda lovers could always bank on, and 10 yrs ago, that was a good argument. today the differences between honda/toyota and the rest just isnt that significant. just look at the most recent long term dependability studies. honda is behind hyundai. toyota is still high. most notable, however, is how much less of a difference there is between the top and the middle of the pack compared to 10 yrs ago...heck even 5 yrs ago.

id take anything built at the Ulsan plant in s korea as soon as a car built anywhere else.

you write that the yaris cant compete on content and price simultaneously. i would argue that it does not compete on either one individually either.

the sad thing is they spent all that money on a new gen yaris and very few changes, if any, make the car any better.....it feels and drives like a facelift. they could have saved a boatload of money and just changed the front fascia a little bit and accomplished the same thing, as the new model offer no tangible benefits (except the small mpg upgrade, which could have been achievable without major changes).

In 5 to 10 years, see how well these other cars hold up. Past performance is a good indicator of future performance!

[anthpace]

In your country, does Toyota offer any larger engines for the Yaris or are you limited to the 1L?

I wish the would offer the smaller engines here so we could get better gas mileage.


We have the 1 liter, the 1.33 Petrol, and a 1.4 Diesel.
We've always had those options. and the Yaris in Europe is built in Valciennes, France.

Mine is a Japanese Market Vitz built in Aichi, Japan with the 1Liter JDM only Super-CVTi Transmission, which they just introduced in Europe.

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

In 5 to 10 years, see how well these other cars hold up. Past performance is a good indicator of future performance!

This is correct. Because Toyota is using the same "old" 1NZ-FE, which, historically has been very stout, I have no doubt this engine in the '12-onward Yaris will offer the same reliable and trouble-free service.

No stupid timing belt to worry about, and very smooth operation sounds great to me.

I prefer my vehicles made in Japan, as, in my experience, they are the most drama-free. I'll stick to what works.

[roxy1]

In 5 to 10 years, see how well these other cars hold up. Past performance is a good indicator of future performance!

there are now plenty of hyundais an even domestics on the road that are quite fine after 10 yrs and 200K miles.

going by what you are saying, nobody should have ever bought japanese makes because in the 70's and early 80's their dependability and durability was abysmal.

honda and toyota are counting on peple just buying off their reputation. look at the quality of the interiors of their latest bread and butter cars as of late...the newest corolla and the newest civic. some of the cheapest interiors in the class, both of which have had some fit and finish issues, something you used to rarely see in japanese makes.

believe me, i felt the same way as you about toyota for a long time. i just eventaully came to the realization that toyota and honda still make good dependable cars, but that their competition has changed so dramatically that their monopoly on reliability is a thing of the past. once i opened my eyes to that there were so many choices out there.

i know some peple will cling to the past and brand X is all they wil ever buy. but, when the only argument in favor of a car like this new yaris is that its worth the cost of other cars in this class because its a toyota, i cant swallow that anymore.

does anyone believe toyota stuck that old engine in the yaris because it was depoendable? they just couldnt afford a more refined advanced engine in that car at this time. im not saying its not dependable. it is a very good engine, just past its prime compare to some of the competition offering larger, more powerful and yet more fuel efficient engine.

i understand the problems japan has with the value of the yen, earthqualke, etc...but as a consumer those cannot be my problems.

now, would i buy a 2012 yaris as a second car. yes, but not at the same price as an accent, which has proven reliable in its previous generation and is now dramatically better.

if you are going to build the cheapest subcompact out there, just price it as such. thats really the gripe for me. at $13k i would not have any issues about the awful interior quality of this yaris because that is what you can reasonably expect at that prce point.

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

there are now plenty of hyundais an even domestics on the road that are quite fine after 10 yrs and 200K miles.

going by what you are saying, nobody should have ever bought japanese makes because in the 70's and early 80's their dependability and durability was abysmal.

honda and toyota are counting on peple just buying off their reputation. look at the quality of the interiors of their latest bread and butter cars as of late...the newest corolla and the newest civic. some of the cheapest interiors in the class, both of which have had some fit and finish issues, something you used to rarely see in japanese makes.

believe me, i felt the same way as you about toyota for a long time. i just eventaully came to the realization that toyota and honda still make good dependable cars, but that their competition has changed so dramatically that their monopoly on reliability is a thing of the past. once i opened my eyes to that there were so many choices out there.

i know some peple will cling to the past and brand X is all they wil ever buy. but, when the only argument in favor of a car like this new yaris is that its worth the cost of other cars in this class because its a toyota, i cant swallow that anymore.

does anyone believe toyota stuck that old engine in the yaris because it was depoendable? they just couldnt afford a more refined advanced engine in that car at this time. im not saying its not dependable. it is a very good engine, just past its prime compare to some of the competition offering larger, more powerful and yet more fuel efficient engine.

i understand the problems japan has with the value of the yen, earthqualke, etc...but as a consumer those cannot be my problems.

now, would i buy a 2012 yaris as a second car. yes, but not at the same price as an accent, which has proven reliable in its previous generation and is now dramatically better.

if you are going to build the cheapest subcompact out there, just price it as such. thats really the gripe for me. at $13k i would not have any issues about the awful interior quality of this yaris because that is what you can reasonably expect at that prce point.

You make many logical and valid points in this post, Roxy.

Of course Toyota didn't do a complete re-design of their engine! Designing a new engine (even a humble four-banger like in the Yaris) costs hundreds of millions of dollars and takes years. I can assure you at Toyota, at this moment, they are developing the "new" or "refreshed" engine for the 4th gen Yaris due in 2014 (I read this somewhere).

Someone commented earlier that "Why doesn't Toyota give the Yaris 45+mpg?"

Well, if they did, it would cannibalize Prius sales, a sub-brand they are trying to grow at the moment. Also, the Prius, although at first not, is now VERY profitable for Toyota per-unit. The Yaris is not. It is supposed to be basic, reliable transportation that doesn't hinder people's lives.

I fully acknowledge that Honda and Toyota especially, have dropped the ball as of late. They have chosen to be "comfortable", which I call lazy, and just play it safe. Well, as they have been stretching out on their respective couches, the competition has started to catch up, and in many cases, surpassed them. Hyundai, especially.

That said, I have seen the new Accent, and it is hard as hell to see out of from the mailbox slit-like rear window, and it doesn't look very good, either. I also hate the interior design. It also no-longer comes in my beloved 3-door configuration. I am sure it will find many happy buyers, and will be very reliable.

Toyota chose to take a middle-of-the-road approach with the '12 Yaris. Not super decontented like the Versa (USB port, power door locks, even on the base model), or (in my view) overcontented like the Fiesta (a "decent one" is around $17k and can easily hit $20k).

There will be buyers for the stripper-special Versas, lots of them if previous sales figures are any indication. Good for Nissan.

There will be buyers for the excellent Fiesta, though few due to the higher cost of entry. Good for Ford.

But there will also be buyers (fewer than the Versa) for the '12-onward Yaris. It's a simple, honest, and "old" refreshed car. But you know what? Some of us like that, and hate excuses about DI engines getting clogged with carbon for 2 more MPG highway. In this economy, parting with our very hard-earned cash, we don't want to gamble on something unproven, or as I call it "too new". That's one reason why I won't buy the Fiat 500. It looks snazzy, comes in a 3-door, and was fun as a bag full of frogs during my test-drive several months ago. But let someone else be the beta-tester, I'll pass. Sales numbers for the A-class 500 back up my suspicions on Americans not wanting to take a "chance" on an unknown.

For this class, balancing simplicity and imagined luxury is very tricky. However, though not setting the world or it's class on fire, I think the Yaris has a place, a home. Those that test-drive it will at least come away with a high view of it's road manners, refinement (for it's class, again), and high build-quality. This is a reliable, simple economy car in the same vein as the Tercel, itself a very reliable, if very unpopular car in it's class at the time.

I kind of like that, but that's just me. Call me an old codger. :smoking:

[roxy1]

You make many logical and valid points in this post, Roxy.

Of course Toyota didn't do a complete re-design of their engine! Designing a new engine (even a humble four-banger like in the Yaris) costs hundreds of millions of dollars and takes years. I can assure you at Toyota, at this moment, they are developing the "new" or "refreshed" engine for the 4th gen Yaris due in 2014 (I read this somewhere).

Someone commented earlier that "Why doesn't Toyota give the Yaris 45+mpg?"

Well, if they did, it would cannibalize Prius sales, a sub-brand they are trying to grow at the moment. Also, the Prius, although at first not, is now VERY profitable for Toyota per-unit. The Yaris is not. It is supposed to be basic, reliable transportation that doesn't hinder people's lives.

I fully acknowledge that Honda and Toyota especially, have dropped the ball as of late. They have chosen to be "comfortable", which I call lazy, and just play it safe. Well, as they have been stretching out on their respective couches, the competition has started to catch up, and in many cases, surpassed them. Hyundai, especially.

That said, I have seen the new Accent, and it is hard as hell to see out of from the mailbox slit-like rear window, and it doesn't look very good, either. I also hate the interior design. It also no-longer comes in my beloved 3-door configuration. I am sure it will find many happy buyers, and will be very reliable.

Toyota chose to take a middle-of-the-road approach with the '12 Yaris. Not super decontented like the Versa (USB port, power door locks, even on the base model), or (in my view) overcontented like the Fiesta (a "decent one" is around $17k and can easily hit $20k).

There will be buyers for the stripper-special Versas, lots of them if previous sales figures are any indication. Good for Nissan.

There will be buyers for the excellent Fiesta, though few due to the higher cost of entry. Good for Ford.

But there will also be buyers (fewer than the Versa) for the '12-onward Yaris. It's a simple, honest, and "old" refreshed car. But you know what? Some of us like that, and hate excuses about DI engines getting clogged with carbon for 2 more MPG highway. In this economy, parting with our very hard-earned cash, we don't want to gamble on something unproven, or as I call it "too new". That's one reason why I won't buy the Fiat 500. It looks snazzy, comes in a 3-door, and was fun as a bag full of frogs during my test-drive several months ago. But let someone else be the beta-tester, I'll pass. Sales numbers for the A-class 500 back up my suspicions on Americans not wanting to take a "chance" on an unknown.

For this class, balancing simplicity and imagined luxury is very tricky. However, though not setting the world or it's class on fire, I think the Yaris has a place, a home. Those that test-drive it will at least come away with a high view of it's road manners, refinement (for it's class, again), and high build-quality. This is a reliable, simple economy car in the same vein as the Tercel, itself a very reliable, if very unpopular car in it's class at the time.

I kind of like that, but that's just me. Call me an old codger. :smoking:

i share alot of your sentiment. i just think the price point is just off a bit. a '12 yaris base model may make it into my driveway yet, but only if i can get one at under $14k.

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

i share alot of your sentiment. i just think the price point is just off a bit. a '12 yaris base model may make it into my driveway yet, but only if i can get one at under $14k.

That is dangerously close to the invoice of $13,551 for the base L w/no options.

Um, good luck, Roxy.

If I can get mine for $15,500 w/all taxes, fees, etc. included, out the door, I will be happy.

[roxy1]

That is dangerously close to the invoice of $13,551 for the base L w/no options.

Um, good luck, Roxy.

If I can get mine for $15,500 w/all taxes, fees, etc. included, out the door, I will be happy.

yep. a stereo and ac are my only real requirements.

i already have a car with more technology than i will ever use.

[mr9865]

That is dangerously close to the invoice of $13,551 for the base L w/no options.

Um, good luck, Roxy.

If I can get mine for $15,500 w/all taxes, fees, etc. included, out the door, I will be happy.

I'm shooting for 14k out the door. In my area we get a turecar price of 14,035. Then I get the 1000 college grad rebate.

[roxy1]

I'm shooting for 14k out the door. In my area we get a turecar price of 14,035. Then I get the 1000 college grad rebate.

i noticed there are currently very few base model manuals in the midwest.

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

i noticed there are currently very few base model manuals in the midwest.

Very few in Texas also...:mad:

But I will have my Yaris, oh yes! I can, and I will haz Yaris hatch! :thumbsup:

[Hershey]

Don't forget . You get knee airbag and side airbags in the seats along with the active head rests . A few other additions as well . So , not such a bad price at under $14,500 .

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

Don't forget . You get knee airbag and side airbags in the seats along with the active head rests . A few other additions as well . So , not such a bad price at under $14,500 .

When it comes to airbags, the new Yaris is 5lbs. of airbags in a 1lb....erm, bag.

[eTiMaGo]

You make many logical and valid points in this post, Roxy.

Of course Toyota didn't do a complete re-design of their engine! Designing a new engine (even a humble four-banger like in the Yaris) costs hundreds of millions of dollars and takes years. I can assure you at Toyota, at this moment, they are developing the "new" or "refreshed" engine for the 4th gen Yaris due in 2014 (I read this somewhere).


Yes, Toyota does not come out with new engines so often, and when they do, they tend to be a variation of the same one. Their latest 4-cylinder would be the ZR series, available from 1.6 to 2.0L, as found in the xD, Corolla, and others. I guess only Europe and Japan get a lot of different engine choices!

Someone commented earlier that "Why doesn't Toyota give the Yaris 45+mpg?"

Well, if they did, it would cannibalize Prius sales, a sub-brand they are trying to grow at the moment. Also, the Prius, although at first not, is now VERY profitable for Toyota per-unit. The Yaris is not. It is supposed to be basic, reliable transportation that doesn't hinder people's lives.


Yep, when the 2nd gen yaris was introduced in the US, it seemed kinda weird as it was more or less the same car as the xA... Of course back then we didn't know Toyota was planning to supersize the small Scions...


I fully acknowledge that Honda and Toyota especially, have dropped the ball as of late. They have chosen to be "comfortable", which I call lazy, and just play it safe. Well, as they have been stretching out on their respective couches, the competition has started to catch up, and in many cases, surpassed them. Hyundai, especially.


What was the last "hot" car Toyota sold? The MR-S, though it certainly is a decent car, is driven by a Corolla engine... Whatever happened to the factory turbocharged models? At least Honda kept up with production of Type R Civics...

Gotta thank Hyundai for putting a fire to the ass of Toyota to finish off the FT86 project... I'm surprised the Genesis Coupe has not made bigger wave, it is a lot of car for the money!


That said, I have seen the new Accent, and it is hard as hell to see out of from the mailbox slit-like rear window, and it doesn't look very good, either. I also hate the interior design. It also no-longer comes in my beloved 3-door configuration. I am sure it will find many happy buyers, and will be very reliable.

Toyota chose to take a middle-of-the-road approach with the '12 Yaris. Not super decontented like the Versa (USB port, power door locks, even on the base model), or (in my view) overcontented like the Fiesta (a "decent one" is around $17k and can easily hit $20k).

There will be buyers for the stripper-special Versas, lots of them if previous sales figures are any indication. Good for Nissan.

There will be buyers for the excellent Fiesta, though few due to the higher cost of entry. Good for Ford.

But there will also be buyers (fewer than the Versa) for the '12-onward Yaris. It's a simple, honest, and "old" refreshed car. But you know what? Some of us like that, and hate excuses about DI engines getting clogged with carbon for 2 more MPG highway. In this economy, parting with our very hard-earned cash, we don't want to gamble on something unproven, or as I call it "too new". That's one reason why I won't buy the Fiat 500. It looks snazzy, comes in a 3-door, and was fun as a bag full of frogs during my test-drive several months ago. But let someone else be the beta-tester, I'll pass. Sales numbers for the A-class 500 back up my suspicions on Americans not wanting to take a "chance" on an unknown.

For this class, balancing simplicity and imagined luxury is very tricky. However, though not setting the world or it's class on fire, I think the Yaris has a place, a home. Those that test-drive it will at least come away with a high view of it's road manners, refinement (for it's class, again), and high build-quality. This is a reliable, simple economy car in the same vein as the Tercel, itself a very reliable, if very unpopular car in it's class at the time.

I kind of like that, but that's just me. Call me an old codger. :smoking:

+1 to all of the above :)

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

Yes, Toyota does not come out with new engines so often, and when they do, they tend to be a variation of the same one. Their latest 4-cylinder would be the ZR series, available from 1.6 to 2.0L, as found in the xD, Corolla, and others. I guess only Europe and Japan get a lot of different engine choices!


Yep, when the 2nd gen yaris was introduced in the US, it seemed kinda weird as it was more or less the same car as the xA... Of course back then we didn't know Toyota was planning to supersize the small Scions...



What was the last "hot" car Toyota sold? The MR-S, though it certainly is a decent car, is driven by a Corolla engine... Whatever happened to the factory turbocharged models? At least Honda kept up with production of Type R Civics...

Gotta thank Hyundai for putting a fire to the ass of Toyota to finish off the FT86 project... I'm surprised the Genesis Coupe has not made bigger wave, it is a lot of car for the money!



+1 to all of the above :)

The only complaint I can honestly level at Toyota is the killing of the Celica years ago. For without it, there is no chance of an MR2 revival. Having owned one while in Japan ('94 Turbo coupe w/5-speed), I can honestly say Toyota can do "sport", when they so desire.

I just wish they would do more than the FT-86.

The Genesis coupe is an excellent first effort for Hyundai. I have seen spy shots of the 2013 Genesis coupe, and it appears much more dramatic, and I suspect will be an even better driver's car.

Now that Akio Toyoda has full control of the Company, don't be surprised if this enthusiast starts getting the Big T to return to cars with a little more "sport", and I don't mean Corollas with bodykits and little red "S" badging.

Turbos are always good, Toyoda-san. :evil:

[eTiMaGo]

Toyota can do sport... they got into NASCAR to sell... more Camrys? :laugh:

Actually it's not really fair to say all of this without mentioning the Lexus IS-F and LF-A (as if any of us here could afford the latter), there is always hope for something in between those and the FT86...

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

Toyota can do sport... they got into NASCAR to sell... more Camrys? :laugh:

Actually it's not really fair to say all of this without mentioning the Lexus IS-F and LF-A (as if any of us here could afford the latter), there is always hope for something in between those and the FT86...

Yes. I'm hoping for a new Celica, and based off it's drivetrain, a new MR2. The MR2 Turbo is the most fun car I have ever driven, yet still it is reliable.

I hope Toyota returns to their awesome roots during the late 80's early 90's when several of their cars offered reliable, yet still fun performance.

I shouldn't be forced to buy a Miata to get reliable and fun in the same vehicle. I'm not a Miata kind of guy.

[eTiMaGo]

yeah hairdressing school can be pretty expensive :D

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

yeah hairdressing school can be pretty expensive :D

I admit it...I LOL'd.

The Miata is still a great driver's car, but it has an "image" problem I'd rather not associate myself with.

[Vinsanity]

sold my yaris about a year ago! First time logging back on since, I think I'm going to purchase a new yaris as soon as I can!!!!

[CanIHazYarisHatch?]

sold my yaris about a year ago! First time logging back on since, I think I'm going to purchase a new yaris as soon as I can!!!!

Sounds great! The 2012s are sweeeeeeeeet!