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The Toyota Yaris that replaces the Echo nameplate, brings with it a high class of refinement, sophisticated exterior styling, upscale interior cabin and a silky smooth driving experience. This car is manufactured by Toyota Motors Company to make a distinct mark in the subcompact passenger car segment. For 2008, it is available in two body styles- four-door Sedan and three-door Liftback. The Liftback comes in six exciting colors, while the Sedan is available in nine colors.

Exterior Styling

For the current year, the Yaris is given a new look at Toyota's European design studio, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Design Division. The Liftback models feature a strong, modern mono-form shape with short overhangs. With its arched beltline and outward pushed wheels, the Yaris Liftback has a very sophisticated appeal. To add to this are the integrated bumpers, headlamps, color-keyed door handles and mirrors. The rear side is highlighted with large taillights and a wide liftgate for easy cargo area access. Even though the Sedan resembles the Liftback to some extent yet it has its own distinctive styling. It can be noticed from the front side “T” shaped grille that is framed by sharp character lines integrated into the aerodynamic hood and windshield. In the rear, the tail lamps frame a wide trunk opening. With a 100.4-inch wheelbase, the Yaris Sedan is bit longer as compared to the 96.9-inch wheelbase for the Liftback.

Powerful Engine

Both the body styles- Liftback and Sedan share the same engine- 1,496 cc 1.5 liters in-line 4 front engine with 74.9 mm bore, 84.6 mm stroke, 10.5 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder 1SZ-FE. The Yaris in all versions offers superb fuel economy. It gives a fuel economy of 29-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. The engine is equipped with 5-speed manual overdrive transmission. This transmission is standard on all models. A 4-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive (ECT) transmission is also available but as an optional package.

Spacious Interior

Both the models have enough space in the interior cabin to comfortably accommodate five passengers, along with small cargoes. The upscale cabin of the Liftback provides rear seating for three with headrests in all seating positions. The rear seat is foldable for expanding the cargo capacity from 9.3 cubic feet to 25.7 cubic feet. For clear forward visibility, the instrument cluster is center-mounted and placed high on the dashboard. For both the models, there are easy-to-reach audio and climate controls, an array of storage spaces including a center console with built-in storage, and cup holders in the front and rear.

Safety Equipments

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has given this car their highest rating of Good in every aspect, except for head or neck safety. Here it received the second highest acceptable rating. On a five star scale, the frontal impact has earned four stars by most tests. As for side impact, there are optional side airbags to make it a most reliable car. Its safety related attributes are also tested thoroughly by the reputed National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). There are many standard safety features in the 2008 Toyota Yaris line-up.