Small car heaven!

Spritely new Yaris enters small car market
Toyota 's latest small car incarnation replaces the Echo and adds a few distinct improvements to raise the bar in the ultra-competitive small hatch market.

It goes head to head with the likes of Holden Viva, Honda Jazz and Mazda 2.

The manufacturer has great confidence for the success of Yaris in Australia , particularly in light of its tremendous sales in Europe . It is heading toward 240,000 units sold per annum over there and, indeed, global sales are predicted to climb to 500,000 during 2006. That's serious popularity.

The base model YR has a 60kW 1.3-litre engine while the 80kW 1.5-litre YRS has both a three-door and five-door version. A four-speed auto costs an extra $1500.

Importantly, anti-lock brakes and two front airbags are standard while the lowered bonnet adheres to Euro concerns (and design) over pedestrian safety.

Given its size, the Yaris delivers excellent fuel economy and is relatively quick off the mark. It won't set any records but with urban street speeds increasingly set to 40k/ph and 50k/ph, this is hardly a concern.

Although rear storage is limited, the interior layout is smart, with multiple storing options and good space for four adults. The dash is wonderfully efficient to boot. Handling is vastly improved compared to the predecessor Echo, with impressive cornering, light clutch engagement and sufficient dampening on bumpy surfaces.

Toyota Yaris YRS (mid-range model)

Engine 1.5 litre V4, 80kW of power

Economy 6.1 litres per 100km (ave)

Acceleration 0-100kph in 10.7 seconds

Transmission 5-speed manual

Price from $17,990 plus on-roads

Features air-con, MP3 compatible CD player, ABS, multiple air-bags, leather bound sports wheel, power windows, etc.

Hyundai Getz even cheaper

Hyundai has very recently released a lower priced five-door Getz. The entry price for the five-door model has been cut by $1000 to $14,490 with the arrival of the smaller 1.4-litre version.

It features the same twin-cam 16-valve engine already offered in the three-door and an auto transmission is available for $1,890 more. It adds real spice to the battle for the hearts and minds of the small hatch, entry level market.

Hyundai has been strongly focusing on providing safety options for its typically younger, less experienced and, therefore, more vulnerable drivers. The Getz includes dual front airbags, front seatbelt load-limiters, anti-submarining front seat steel pans, two side-impact beams in each front door and one each in rear door and a full-size spare wheel.

The interior is smart and efficient and storage space is surprisingly roomy. That said, the Getz is predominantly designed for single or couples' driving and the ergonomics very much tilt in favour of those in the front. We are impressed by its zippy style and the 5-year warranty is a wonderful feature for this price.

Hyundai Getz 5-door

Engine 1.5 litre V4, 74kW of power

Economy 6.2 litres per 100km (ave)

Acceleration 0-100kph in 10.7 seconds

Transmission 5-speed manual

Price from $14,990 plus on-roads

Features air-con, MP3 compatible CD player, ABS, multiple air-bags, power windows, alarm, immobiliser.

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