2012 Toyota Yaris Design Details Explained

As the third generation Yaris rolls of production lines at the Japanese manufacturer’s facilities, Toyota took the time off to tell us more details about the vehicle’s styling. Specifically, the automaker says the designers produced a look that is bolder, sharper and more dynamic, while remaining true to the principle of “compact outside, spacious inside” that has characterized the car since the original model broke cover in 1999.

The car is mainly characterized by an all-new front end with slim, horizontal headlights and prominent, deep lower air intake. Detail touches include a larger front quarterlight, with the A-pillar moved further forward, giving a more steeply raked windscreen. The rear side windows have lost the vertical bar that previously divided the glazing.

The look is completed by new 15 and 16-inch alloy wheel designs and a choice of 10 colours for the body, including two completely new shades – Deep Aqua and Burning Red.

Inside we find gun metal trims around the driver’s instruments, the multimedia touchscreen and air vents, and chrome detailing on the controls and switchgear.

The strong horizontal lines of the new dashboard emphasize the generous width of the cabin – 30mm greater than before – with a new soft-padded dash section with matching upper door panel pads. The color of these padded sections co-ordinates with inserts in the seat upholstery, reinforcing the general high quality feel of the interior.

The front seats are new, with increased vertical adjustment and, on some models, an arm rest for the driver. Their design gives both better body holding and comfort, with wider, higher sided cushions that have a raised front edge which can help combat tiredness on long journeys.

A panoramic glass roof is available (standard on the top-of-the-range model) that increases the spacious feel of the cabin.