The five-door Toyota Yaris is a new model for 2009, helping satisfy demand as more consumers not only want fuel efficient compacts, but also are interested in versatile hatchbacks. Previously, the Yaris was offered only as a two-door hatchback or a sedan. Now the four-door hatchback variant can help Toyota compete with a broader range of compacts.
Powering the 2009 Yaris is a 1.5-liter four cylinder engine that produces 106 horsepower and 104 lb ft of torque, which is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. While a five-speed manual can be had with the two-door hatchback or the sedan, the five-door only has the automatic. While it may not sound like much, Santa Barbara Auto Loans specialists say the Yaris deliver ample power for the price.
Of course many potential Toyota Yaris buyers will be attracted to the efficiency of this little compact says Used Cars Kingston NY. With 29 miles per gallon in city driving and 35 miles per gallon on the highway, Albuquerque Auto Financing points out that the Yaris has competitive fuel economy without the added cost associated with hybrid vehicles.
Despite its small engine and high fuel economy, the Toyota Yaris is surprisingly fun to drive, and offers plenty of peppiness for around town driving. For those who crave just a little more power, this can be easily achieved with the help of a Toyota Racing Development turbocharger available through Toyota Parts City of Industry. The suspension for the Yaris is well tuned, and provides the Yaris with spirited and nimble handling, but without a harsh ride.
The interior of the Yaris S provides a comfortable and sporty environment. According to Toyota Car Loans Tacoma, the S package includes auxiliary audio, rear spoiler, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and unique cloth on the bucket seats up front. Other features include power windows and locks and a 60/40 splint rear bench seat that makes it easy to stow larger cargo.
Despite its small size, customers at Ogden Toyota dealers have found that the Toyota Yaris offers plenty of room up front and in the rear. With the rear seats folded down, there’s even a commendable 25.7 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear compartment.
Volvo Dives into Plug-in Hybrid Technology
Volvo has been struggling amid slumping global sales, but that hasn’t stopped the automaker from diving into research and development. One such as product of its R&D efforts is a new plug-in hybrid that will be due by 2012. Volvo has committed itself to producing a high mileage diesel-electric plug-in hybrid, but it has yet to confirm its plans to sell the vehicle in the U.S.
Lexus ES Still Critical to Luxury Brand Lineup
As one Lexus’ most popular models, there will be plenty of drivers that will be happy to see a revamped Lexus ES 350 coming to showrooms later this month. While it may not be a full redesign, the updating certainly brings needed enhancements.
Could GM Utilize Toyota Hybrid Technology?
Toyota and General Motors have had a strong partnership via NUMMI. This seemingly odd relationship was responsible for the Pontiac Vibe, which was build alongside the similar Toyota Matrix in a joint manufacturing venture based in California. With the Pontiac Vibe now discontinued, the question now is what will come of the NUMMI partnership.
