2007 Toyota Yaris Arrives in U.S. in All-New Liftback and Sedan Versions
The 2007 Toyota Yaris will make its U.S. debut when it arrives in showrooms this spring in four-door Sedan and three-door Liftback configurations.
First launched in Europe in 1999, the Yaris was named the 2000 European "Car of the Year" and has become Toyota's best-selling model in the European market. In fact, Yaris was also named "Japan Car of the Year," marking the first time the same vehicle captured both honors in the same year. For the U.S., the Yaris will replace the ECHO in the subcompact passenger-car segment.
"As Toyota's most affordable passenger car, the Yaris will feature contemporary exterior styling and a surprising upscale interior," said Jim Lentz, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. "It will be one of the most economic and youthful passenger cars Toyota has built in the subcompact category."
Toyota Yaris Liftback will be offered in one grade, while the Sedan will offer two grades, adding a sport-themed Toyota Yaris S.
Contemporary Styling
Yaris Liftback was styled at Toyota's European design studio, ED² and Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Design Division. Both the Sedan and Liftback feature class-up styling, and a new level of refinement, sophistication, and fun-to-drive experience to the entry subcompact segment. Both Yaris configurations ride on an all-new platform that is longer and wider than its European predecessor, and will be the basis for a wide variety of future vehicles.
Yaris construction includes high-tensile steel, creating a lightweight yet rigid body to help enhance driving control and responsive steering. Reduced NVH is made possible with the application of damping materials in strategic locations throughout the vehicle.
The Liftback features a strong, modern mono-form shape made possible by its short overhangs and a low center of gravity exuding a youthful and proud stance. Color-keyed door handles and rear view mirrors contribute to the Liftback's consistent profile from front to rear. The front features a chrome-trimmed front grille centered between sharp character lines, which are integrated into its aerodynamic hood and windshield. Outer molding has been eliminated from the windshield and door glass to help enhance aerodynamics and reduce wind noise. The rear portrays a more substantial appearance with large taillights and a wide rear door for easy and ample cargo area access.
The Yaris Sedan has a long stretched cabin with an arched beltline and its tires pushed outward at each corner. Integrated bumpers and headlamps as well as a low center of gravity give Toyota Yaris Sedan a modern and sophisticated look. Like the Liftback, it features a "T" face grille, which emphasizes the Toyota identity. In the rear, the taillights are bookends to a wide trunk that extends down to the bumper molding, which provides a more substantial appearance and allows for easy trunk access. Both the Liftback and Sedan will ride on P175/65 R14 tires with steel wheels and full wheel covers and offer available 15-inch steel or aluminum alloy wheels.
Toyota Yaris S Sedan is designed to appeal to buyers looking for sporty styling. Side rocker panels, front and rear under bumper spoilers, 15-inch steel wheels and available aluminum alloy wheels give Toyota Yaris S a more aggressive appearance.
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