Toyota Yaris

Well built, spacious and comfortable, the new Yaris will keep Toyota right at the top of the supermini class. Keen drivers will be disappointed by the lack of performance this entry-level variant offers, but few will argue with its economy or emissions. Residual values are also expected to be strong, making the Yaris a very tempting proposition.

The Toyota Yaris has always been one of the few cars to offer the best of both worlds, by being small on the outside and big on the inside.

Since the original was launched in 1999, rivals have copied the Japanese model's convincing package - so much so that it's now outclassed by more modern opponents. This is why an all-new Yaris has been built. But can it carry on where its predecessor left off?

We have already been impressed by Toyota's newcomer in Japan (issue 845), but only now that it has arrived here can we really rate the car. The outgoing Yaris was always an attractive design, and while its replacement is hardly distinctive, it has a unique grille and well proportioned rising waistline.

Where the original really stole a march on the competition, however, was inside. Climb into the new model, and the first thing that draws your attention is the vast dashboard. Stretching out before the driver, its size is emphasised by the enormous instrument pod. This makes room for a number of useful cubbies either side of the console.

In the back, there's lots of legroom, but a tapered roofline means taller occupants will have to slide the adjustable bench forward to sit up straight. But whatever the position of the back seat, boot space is tight. However, the seats will fold in one easy motion to leave a roomy load area, and there's a neat under-floor stowage box, too.

Under the bonnet of our test model was the 68bhp, 1.0-litre three-cylinder powerplant that's found in the Aygo city car, but how does it fare in the heavier Yaris? With all three cylinders providing a satisfying rasp, the engine sounds eager to work hard, but still has to be pushed to keep up with traffic.

Once up to speed, the Yaris is quite involving. The steering is well weighted, and the firm ride helps to give plenty of feel in fast corners - unfortunately at the expense of some ride comfort. And while the chassis offers bags of grip, initial body roll discourages the driver from pushing hard when cornering.

However, with prices starting from £8,995, few buyers will be disappointed. The T3 model tested here comes with all the essential standard equipment - CD player, air-conditioning, ABS and EBD - and weighs in at £10,495. Anyone wanting stronger performance will be better off choosing the 1.3-litre petrol or 1.4-litre diesel variants.

The new Yaris is not quite as revolutionary as its predecessor, but Toyota has built a convincing supermini.