Toyota Yaris ZR 2012 review

We're spoiled for choice in the tiddler class with perhaps 15 different vehicle brands represented. Better yet, they are striving really hard to attract us to their lair.

Value

Just because we might be shopping sub-$20,000 doesn't mean we have to miss out. Take the new $18,990 Toyota Yaris ZR for example -- a cute little number with decent performance, plenty of kit and a cheeky face.

This is generation three of Yaris and it comes with Toyota's fixed price servicing -- a big plus if you're on a budget. Yaris also gains a five star ANCAP crash rating and plenty more to attract attention.

Explore the 2012 Toyota Yaris range

• Toyota Yaris 2012 review
• Toyota Yaris ZR 2012 review

It shares equipment levels with the five door YRX meaning excellent SUNA satnav is standard along with Bluetooth audio and phone, climate control air, decent audio, multi wheel controls, cruise, automatic headlights and other useful stuff.

Engine

The ZR is the “sports” Yaris though it's the same under the skin as other 1.5-litre models except you can only have it with a five speed manual -- no auto is offered.

The engine is a twin cam unit with variable valve timing but out-dated port injection instead of the newer direct system. Still, it's capable of delivering respectable performance rated at 80kW/141Nm using regular 91 RON unleaded petrol. We saw 6.0-litres/100km and it would do better trying harder.

Design

ZR differs from the five door YRX by having only three doors and a funky looking body aero kit, 15-inch sporty alloys, driving lights, sports seats and a roof spoiler. The effect is chunky and purposeful though some criticism was directed ZR's way as being too much like a mini-people mover. That's a bit harsh.

The shape is necessary to deliver above average interior room making the car more practical. Folding 60/40 rear seats creates a large load space almost like a small van.

Driving

Ride is sporty/comfortable offering up flat cornering and adequate ride comfort with relatively quick steering from what are fairly simple underpinnings. The rear drum brakes look out of place but work OK and there's a space saver spare.

It has a strut front and torsion beam suspension calibrated locally, thankfully meaning ZR is well screwed down and fun to drive. We like the interior despite the hard plastic dash whose reflective surface is a real issue when driving into the sun. The sports seats are good and there's an airy feel to the ZR created by large glass areas.

Verdict

We had a good old punt in the Yaris ZR and would definitely consider it. Trouble is there are some really hot items in this territory - in looks, performance, value and equipment. And that's how it should be.