Toyota Yaris review - Interior, design and technology

Toyota has tended to forge its own path when it comes to styling, and while earlier versions of the Yaris didn’t set the world alight with their rounded shapes, the current car has some sharp angles in its design to keep it interesting. The facelift in 2017 has arguably made it even more distinctive, with a fresher exterior look than before.

A subtle ‘X’ cuts from the lights through the Toyota badge and into the bumpers. It’s a distinctive styling cue, and certainly looks more dramatic than the upright nose on the Volkswagen Polo, for example.

The GRMN hot hatch has its own inidividual look inside and out, and is available only with a white and red paint scheme. It also stands out from other versions of the Yaris, thanks to its central rear exhaust, more aggressive splitters front and rear and a big roof spoiler at the back. In the flesh it looks subtly purposeful, as does the interior. This features a pair of big bucket front seats and various unique flashes of aluminium on the console, as well as a bespoke set of instruments and a GR Racing-badged starter button.

The GR Sport model recieves a very similar visual makeover, but is based on a five-door Yaris. 

12

Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment

Dominating the dashboard of the Yaris is the seven-inch touchscreen that’s central to the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system. The navigation system is relatively simple to operate and shows 3D images of key features on your route, but the screen looks old fashioned now and isn't very responsive.

In addition, owners can access features like Google Street View and social media apps through the Touch 2 display, while the options list includes features like a mobile hotspot.