Experiencing the Evolution in Car Manufacturing: Test Drive Review of Shimoyama Development Model Yaris

Toyota's New Yaris Challenges Perceptions and Elevates Compact Car Experience

In a bold move, Akio Toyoda, Master Driver and President of Toyota, has expressed his satisfaction with the company's new compact car, the Yaris. The all-new Yaris, produced at the Iwate Plant of Toyota Motor East Japan, marks the first outing of the TNGA platform for compact cars and the first new model from the Toyota Compact Car Company.

Toyota announced the world premiere of the all-new Yaris in the fall of 2019, aiming to challenge the perception that small cars cannot be cool, appealing, and worthy of pride. Akio Toyoda, who often drives a compact car, such as the iQ or Vitz, in his everyday life, believes that a compact car is the starting point of making ever-better cars.

The Yaris is designed to offer comfort, safety, and affordability despite its small engine displacement volume. Akio Toyoda expressed his delight, stating that the Yaris felt like it had moved up a class or two. He also test-drove the Yaris alongside the Corolla Touring on the same day.

The production of the new Yaris at the Iwate Plant is symbolic of Toyota's entry into a new, revitalized stage of car manufacturing. The company intends to help contribute to the post-disaster recovery and revitalization of the Tohoku region following the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami in 2011.

The Yaris's predecessor, the Vitz, was often perceived as a second car, an entry-level car, or a company car. However, Akio Toyoda's goal for the Yaris was to challenge the "vehicle hierarchy." The new Yaris is aimed at challenging the perception that a big car represents luxury and a small car represents cheapness.

The precise production start date of the new Toyota Yaris in Japan is not explicitly stated in the available search results. Nevertheless, the all-new Yaris went on sale in Japan from mid-February 2020. Akio Toyoda's deliberate choice to drive small cars reflects his commitment to staying tuned to the foundations of Toyota's car manufacturing.

In conclusion, the new Yaris represents a significant step forward for Toyota in the compact car market. With its emphasis on comfort, safety, affordability, and a challenge to traditional perceptions, the Yaris is poised to redefine what a compact car can be.