The little Toyota Yaris 1.5 Pulse is a strong competitor in its class, offering style matched to good interior comfort and spec. The naturally aspirated 1 500 cc petrol engine delivers decent urge, and it’s quite refined, too - even if there is the occasional need for a downshift when tackling more challenging inclines. The Yaris is not quite as much fun as some of its competition, but it’s comparable in every other way.

VITAL STATS

Make and model: Toyota Yaris 1.5 Pulse Manual
Engine: In-line four-cylinder, 1 496 cc
Power : 82 kW @ 6 000 rpm
Torque: 136 Nm @ 4 400 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio: 76,99 kW/ton
Gearbox: Six-speed manual, FWD
Wheels/tyres: 16-inch alloy, 185/60 R16 tyres

0-100 km/h: 11,0 sec
Top speed: 175 km/h
Fuel tank capacity: 42 litres
Fuel consumption (claimed): 5.0 litres/100km
Operating range (claimed): 840 km
CO2 emissions: 112 g/km

PROS
Stylish, comfortable and easy to live with.
CONS
Not as much fun as some of its rivals.

PRICING AND RIVALS
Retail price / as tested: R228 700 / R228 700

Key rivals
Ford Fiesta 1.0T Ambiente: R225 300
Mazda 2 1.5 Individual: R243 300

*Prices in ZAR and correct on upload date