Toyota has unveiled the all-new fourth-generation Yaris Ativ in Thailand, an affordable small sedan sold under the Vios nameplate in other markets. Styling-wise, the new Toyota Yaris Ativ / Vios, basically looks like a baby Corolla sedan. At the front, a large opening is covering most of the bumper, flanked by two aggressive headlights that are connected through the trim piece. The profile is more muscular and upscale-looking than ever before, benefiting from the improved proportions and the larger 16-inch wheels. Finally, the rear end adopts a sportier stance with angular taillights and a more aerodynamic silhouette that is closer to the fastback bodystyle.

Toyota is also offering a series of sportier add-ons as part of the optional Presto package, including bumper and side sill extensions, plus a flamboyant rear wing. More importantly, the new Toyota Yaris Ativ / Vios is based on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) unlike the EU-spec Yaris hatchback which sits on the TNGA-B platform. Thus, it is slightly larger than the previous generation, measuring 4,425 mm long, 1,740 mm wide, and 1,480 mm tall. The biggest difference is the wheelbase of 2,620 mm, which is longer by 70 mm compared to the previous generation.

 

Under the bonnet, there is a naturally-aspirated 1.2-liter Dual VVT-iE four-cylinder engine producing 93 hp and 110 Nm of torque. The engine is exclusively combined with a Super CVT-i automatic gearbox, sending power to the front axle. There are three driving modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport. The subcompact model has disc brakes on all four wheels, McPherson struts at the front, and coil springs at the back.

Inside the cabin, the design looks quite modern for a vehicle of this segment, thanks to the simple layout of the dashboard and premium-looking materials for the upholstery like the pictured red synthetic leather. The free-standing 9-inch infotainment touchscreen is compatible with all modern connectivity features, alongside a 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster behind the new steering wheel with plenty of integrated buttons.

 

There are four USB ports, automatic air conditioning with vents for all passengers (front and rear), 64-colour ambient lighting, a six-speaker Pioneer sound system, and luggage space dividers on the boot. The equipment also includes the Toyota Safety Sense suite with plenty of ADAS like adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring.

The Toyota Yaris Ativ is already available in Thailand with prices ranging between 539,000 baht (US$ 15,232) and 689,000 baht (US$ 19,472) depending on the trim. For a good measure, the larger Toyota Corolla starts from 1,059,000 baht (US$ 29,932) in Thailand. The roll-out in other Asian markets where it will adopt the Vios nameplate will most likely follow sometime in the coming months.