TOYOTA Yaris 3 Doors 1999-2003

Toyota didn’t have much success in the European supermini segment, but things changed when the Yaris came to life.

The Toyota Yaris was revealed to the public in 1999 as a 3-door or a 5-door hatchback.

To make sure that the small car would appeal to the Europeans, they had the Yaris designed in Europe.

The Yaris featured a high roof and a low floor that ensured easy access, as well as great headroom for all its occupants.

Aesthetically, the small Yaris didn’t really look high-fashioned but had a rather happy exterior design with the oversized headlamps and the chromed grille integrated into the hood.

Inside, the traditional dashboard was replaced by a center pod with a digital information display. The carmaker considered that it was safer since the driver could keep an eye on the screen and still be able to see the road ahead. Nissan tried the same layout with the Primera and it didn't work well. The drivers had a different habit and they didn't want to change it.

The interior felt solid and looked well-built, however, the grey plastics used gave the cabin a dull look.

Space-wise, the Yaris’ cabin could fit 4 adults in great comfort.

When Toyota built the Yaris, they did it with three words in mind: affordable, economical, and practical. Thus, regardless of the engine choice,1.0-liter or 1.3-liter, the Yaris came with low fuel consumption and enough power for city driving.

Depending on the trim level, the Yaris could come equipped with air-conditioning, alloy wheels and a CD radio, power steering, and others.

Toyota's Yaris won the European Car of the Year in 2000, to the detriment of Fiat Multipla and Opel Zafira.