Small is beautiful and fast, too

On the streets of Metro Manila, sometimes it is better to be behind the wheel of a small yet powerful car. And that is exactly how I felt when I recently got to test-drive the Toyota Yaris.

I can’t remember the last time I drove the Toyota Yaris — it must have been a few years back. But one thing I do know is that Japanese automaker Toyota is never one to rest on its achievements; it is always looking for ways to make our rides better, more fun and more efficient.

This explains why a few months back Toyota introduced the new upgraded versions of the popular Vios and the stylish hatchback Yaris. The new Yaris was made with a sportier look, while the new Vios became sleeker. 

It is the sportier look of the Yaris that got me all revved up to go and conquer the traffic-laden streets of the metro. Thus, I set out for the first day in the cockpit of the Yaris.

Let me just add that Toyota’s Yaris is its best version to date. With its all-new Dual VVT-I engine and Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) transmission, it makes sitting behind the wheel of this sporty cutie so much more fun because of better mileage, more fuel economy, higher engine output, and decreased fuel emissions. Added to these features, the Yaris has been fitted with a 7-speed-like sequential shift mode transmission.

Let’s Go

As I sat in the cockpit and before I set the pedal to the metal, I got a feel of the sportier seats as well as a good look at the new face display of the audio head unit.

At the launch of the all-new Yaris a few months back, Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP) president Satoru Suzuki shared how TMP’s sales have grown to 26 percent compared to the same period last year. 

“All these accomplishments are propelled by none other than our desire of continuously serving the needs of the increasing number of customers and our role and responsibility in economic growth,” he explained. “Toyota has long been working under the framework of passion, the philosophy of customer first, and our commitment of delivering great products and services.”

The Toyota commitment to make vehicles that are better and wiser for our driver-comfort is what keeps this Japanese brand on top of its game.

It was time to get going if I wanted to see how the Yaris would do on relatively traffic-free streets of Metro Manila at 5:30 a.m.

The right stuff: The all-new Dual VVT-I engine and Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) transmission of the Yaris

The drive to The STAR office from my home in Pasig was fun. One, because I was able to overtake quite a few slow-moving 10-wheeler trucks trying to beat truck ban hours on C5.

I give credit to the small size of the Yaris and of course its ever-efficient engine, which kept me on top of my driving game all throughout the drive.  The 1.5 L engine, four-speed automatic that I was driving was quick — more so in situations where I need a little more push, like overtaking.

I appreciated the good visibility I had from the cockpit, which kept me on top of my driving game all throughout that 25-minute drive to Port Area.

Let me add that I was able to channel the Evil Knievel I had in me as I drove the oh-so sporty Yaris. But rest assured that I did not take unnecessary risks, and neither did I violate any traffic rules as I sat in the cockpit.

At the red light before I hit EDSA from McKinley Road, I noticed just how comfy the Yaris seats are. I looked at the cabin behind and was impressed that such a small car seemed to have such roomy interiors, an aspect that is part of the DNA of the Yaris.

Green and Go

It was fun driving down EDSA as the Yaris responded to my every command — whether that was to accelerate or slow down at a moment’s notice. I appreciate these features when I am driving because (as any Metro Manila driver knows) cutting jeeps, swerving motorbikes, and the daring pedestrains that love to run across EDSA can be a major headache — and what we must watch out for.  A large windshield and low beltline offer excellent visibility, so attentive drivers will not be surprised by any swerving vehicle or crossing pedestrian hiding in the blind spots.

I made it to The STAR office with a smile on my face, and a desire to get my work done as soon as I could so I could get back in the cockpit.

And drive back home.