2009 Toyota Yaris updated for European Market

In the latest example Toyota has updated the 2009 Yaris for the Euro market. The update includes the availability of a new 1.3-liter engine with a six-speed manual, a minor facelift, and Toyota's Optimal Drive.

The new 1.3-liter inline-four (Toyota calls it a 1.33-liter) is borrowed from the iQ mini car. It produces 100 hp and is attached to a six-speed manual transmission. It also boasts start/stop technology that shuts off the engine at idle to save gas. Toyota's Optimal Drive is included as well. This improvement enhances combustion, saves weight and reduces friction all in the name of higher efficiency.

Toyota says the combination achieves 55.4 mpg on the Euro combined cycle. The other two engines available are the gas-powered 1.0-liter three-cylinder, and a 1.4-liter diesel. Just to compare, in the U.S. we're stuck with the lone 1.5-liter four-banger with either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. It's just not fair.

Pricing in the UK starts at £8,585 on the road. With the possibility of the iQ coming to the States, perhaps Toyota will consider offering the 1.3-liter as option in the U.S. Until then we'll just have to be jealous.

© Source: automobilemag
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