Toyota Motor Philippines closed 2017 by introducing a midcycle refresh of its Yaris subcompact hatchback. The Vios-based 5-door hatchback projects a sportier and fresher aesthetics along with additional convenience and safety features.
As far as refreshes go, the 2018 Yaris goes very far. The most prominent design feature, the handle bar moustache grille is now gone. Replacing it is a more rounded front end with large lower grille reminiscent of a smiling face. Its “eyes” are also new—rounded halogen headlights while the “dimples” house the front fog lights, which are now standard across the range. And while the blacked-out C-pillar remains, the rear tailgate, bumpers, and taillamps are all new. A shark’s fin antenna and new alloy wheel designs complete the changes.
For 2018, the G variant bids goodbye and replacing it is the new S variant. The 1.5 S is differentiated from the lesser 1.3 E variant thanks to its projector-type headlights, red accents in its grille, LED daytime running lights, side mirror-mounted turn indicators, and rear LED taillights.
Under the hood, the Yaris continues to offer a choice between two engines, both of which remain unchanged. Offering a 4-cylinder double overhead cam with Dual VVT-i layout, the 1NR-FE engine in the 1.3 E generates 98 horsepower and 121 Nm of torque while the 2NR-FE in the 1.5 S does 107 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. The 1.3 E is available in both manual (5-speed) and automatic (CVT) flavors, while the 1.5 S is available solely with an automatic with changeable drive modes: ECO and SPORT, and paddle shifters.
The rest of the mechanical package remains unchanged for 2018 as well. The Yaris continues to rides on front Independent MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam axle suspension. The 1.5 S has disc brakes (ventilated in the front) on all four corners, while the 1.3 E has rear drums. The tire size also remains unchanged at 185/60R15.
Like its exterior, the 2018 Yaris gets a substantial upgrade inside. Apart from the new dashboard design, it gets new gauges (with controllable illumination) and a 7-inch touchscreen display audio system with Bluetooth, Voice Control, and Weblink. It’s also said to be compatible with Apple CarPlay. The 1.5 S impresses with standard features that include a smart keyless entry with push-start system, automatic climate control, additional speakers (a total of six), and power folding mirrors.
The 2018 Yaris is equipped with a wide array of safety features. Standard on both the 1.3 E and 1.5 S are seven airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and vehicle stability control (VSC). The stability control system also incorporates a Hill Start Assist function as well.
The 2018 Yaris is now available at all 60 Toyota dealerships with the following prices: 1.3 E M/T – P 825,000; 1.3 E A/T – P 877,000; and 1.5 S – P 1,006,000. Available colors are Freedom White, Attitude Black, Orange Metallic (all variants), Thermalyte, Red Mica Metallic (1.3 E), Gray Metallic, and Citrus Mica Metallic (1.5 S).
