The all-new Yaris Ativ sedan was recently unveiled in Thailand, and we’ll be comparing Toyota’s latest subcompact sedan to the current Vios sold here. What’s the significance of this new Thai-market Toyota model? It’s the Japanese carmaker’s first all-new subcompact sedan in ages, and it’s basically a preview of the next-gen Philippine-spec Vios.
The all-new Yaris Ativ measures 4,425mm x 1,740mm x 1,480mm. This makes it 10mm wider and 5mm taller than the current Vios. Interestingly enough, both cars have identical overall lengths. The new Ativ rides on a 2,620mm wheelbase—this is a 70mm increase over the current Vios.
The new Ativ is equipped with large-for-its-segment 195/60 R16 tires. This upgrade is a 1.5-inch increase in tire diameter over the current Vios. From a design perspective, the combination of larger diameter tires, a longer wheelbase, and shorter overhangs help improve the stance and proportions of Toyota’s latest subcompact sedan.
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The new Ativ’s fastback roofline stretches further back, and this is emphasized by its six-window greenhouse—a design seen in large Toyotas like the Avalon. The new Ativ’s smaller headlights don’t extend too far into its fenders, this helps visually lengthen its hood. While we don’t have data on its interior dimensions, Toyota says it will keep its predecessor’s “roomy interior and luggage space.”
The new Thai-market Yaris Ativ only comes with a 1.2-liter Dual VVT-i mill, but it would most likely gain larger engine options if offered as the next-gen Vios in other markets. What could possibly power the next-gen Vios? Our guess is it could keep the 1.3- and 1.5-liter Dual VVT-i powerplants found in the current Vios and the new Avanza.
The first Yaris Ativ made its debut in Thailand back in 2017. It was the 1.2-liter eco-car sibling of the third-gen Vios, which soldiered on alongside it with cosmetic changes. The Ativ featured a stylish, youthful design with swooping lines and expressive styling details. For markets outside Thailand, the first Ativ became the new-for-2018 Vios. The primary difference between that and the Vios-badged version is its engine options. It’s highly probable that the next-gen Vios will once again be paired with the new Yaris Ativ.
What do you think of the new Yaris Ativ? Would you like to see it here as the next-gen Vios? Let us know in the comments.
