Toyota will unveil a new flagship for the Yaris range at the Paris Motor Show, the Yaris TS. With an emphasis on sporting performance and style, the TS will add an extra dimension to the appeal of the latest generation Yaris, which was only launched at the beginning of this year.
ALL-NEW 1.8-LITRE ENGINE
Key to the TS’s character is an all-new 1.8-litre petrol engine with Dual VVT-i (dual variable valve timing), producing 130bhp (132 DIN hp) at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 173Nm at 4,400rpm. Working with a five-speed manual gearbox, it gives nought to 62mph acceleration in 9.3 seconds and a top speed of 120mph (194km/h).
The Dual VVT-i is an evolution of Toyota’s intelligent valve timing technology. By varying the timing on both the inlet and exhaust valves, it gives greater engine flexibility, more power and torque and improved fuel efficiency. The TS has a combined cycle consumption figure of 37.7mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 178g/km.
SPORTS CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION
The strong Yaris platform has been further adapted to give the TS handling to match its increased power and performance. Modifications to the suspension and steering increase driving pleasure, without compromising refinement.
To improve body and suspension rigidity, the front suspension members have been reinforced and a linking rod has been introduced between the rear members. Lowering the suspension by 8mm gives the TS a more sporting appearance and retuning the springs and shock absorbers increases stability at speed. Adjustments to the front springs and the use of a thicker anti-roll bar reduce body roll and improve high speed cornering performance.
The electric power steering has also been sharpened to a 13.2:1 ratio, giving lock-to-lock in 2.3 turns, compared with14.2:1 and 3.0 turns for the standard Yaris.
SPORTS STYLING
The TS benefits from a number of exclusive styling features that mark out its sporting character. At the front it has a black mesh grille with a clear TS badge, darkened headlamp surrounds and a deeper bumper with integrated fog lights.
The rear bumper has also been redesigned, with an integrated chrome-finished sports exhaust tailpipe and fog lights. The rear lamp clusters adopt an LED-style design.
Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard and the body gains deep side skirts and a roof spoiler. The choice of paint finishes will include a shade exclusive to the TS, Alsace Granite. Inside, the car is fitted with sports seats, with alloy trim detailing, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and exclusive amber backlighting for the main controls.
Following its Paris premiere on 28 September, the new TS is scheduled to reach UK showrooms in February 2007, available in both three and five-door versions.
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