You might not know that the Toyota Yaris is a rebadged Mazda 2 Hatchback. This interesting collaboration stems from a partnership between Toyota and Mazda, combining the strengths of both automakers. When the Yaris hatch comes back in 2020, it will again be a Mazda under the Toyota clothing, continuing this unique blend of engineering and design.
Engine and Performance
The Yaris hatchback is expected to use the same 1.5L inline-four engine that the sedan gets, offering a choice between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine is known for its reliability and efficiency, making it a solid choice for urban commuting and light highway driving. The 1.5L engine produces around 106 horsepower, which is adequate for a car of this size and weight. This setup promises a balanced mix of performance and fuel economy, which is crucial for the subcompact car segment.
Expectations are that the Yaris hatch will get the same front revisions as the sedan has received. These revisions include a more aggressive front grille, updated headlights, and possibly some tweaks to the bumper design. These changes aim to give the Yaris a more modern and appealing look, aligning it with Toyota’s current design language.
Design and Features
A refreshed Yaris hatchback has been a long time coming. The car has been around for many years now with no major updates and still uses a very old 4-speed automatic. This outdated transmission has been one of the major drawbacks of the current model, affecting both performance and fuel efficiency. The new 6-speed options will undoubtedly be a significant improvement, offering smoother shifts and better overall driving dynamics.
The sedan is the much more popular Yaris, selling over 25,000 units compared to the 1,940 hatchback units sold. This disparity in sales figures can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the sedan offers more trunk space, making it a more practical choice for families and individuals who need extra storage. Secondly, the sedan’s design has generally been better received, with many finding the hatchback’s styling less appealing.
That is probably because the hatchback Yaris is incredibly ugly. However, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and some may appreciate the quirky design of the hatchback. The new model aims to address these aesthetic concerns with a more streamlined and modern look. Interior updates are also expected, including a more intuitive infotainment system, higher-quality materials, and additional safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Additional Features and Market Position
The Yaris hatchback will likely come equipped with a range of standard features to make it competitive in the subcompact segment. Expect to see amenities such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims may offer additional luxuries like heated seats, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
In terms of market positioning, the Yaris hatchback will compete with other subcompact cars like the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai Accent. Each of these competitors has its strengths, but the Yaris aims to stand out with its blend of Toyota reliability and Mazda’s engaging driving dynamics. The collaboration between these two automotive giants allows the Yaris to offer a unique proposition in a crowded market.
The return of the Toyota Yaris hatchback as a rebadged Mazda 2 is an exciting development for fans of subcompact cars. With its updated engine, improved transmission options, and refreshed design, the new Yaris hatchback promises to be a significant improvement over its predecessor. While it faces stiff competition, its unique blend of features and the backing of two reputable automakers make it a compelling choice for those in the market for a small, efficient, and reliable vehicle.
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