Japan
Toyota has scored a huge success with its new Yaris supermini, which is the winner of this year's European Car of the Year award. Replacing the long-running Starlet, the Yaris is a stylish small hatchback with a clever high-roof design that maximes interior space. The front of the Yaris is exceptionally spacious for such a small car, while rear seat space can be altered via a sliding rear bench. Other interesting features include an all-digital facial display which does away with traditional dials and clocks. There are only two engines currently on offer; 1.0 and 1.3 petrol engines, both of which have impressively powerful "VVTi" (variable valve timing intelligence) 16-valve engines that also offer a good level of fuel economy. A sporty 1.5 version and an economical diesel will go on sale at a later date, as will the quirky Yaris Verso compact MPV.
Also new to the Toyota range is the latest version of the long-running Celica sporting coupe. With its sharp looks and even sharper handling, the new Celica is a swift four-seater coupe powered by a 1.8 VVTi engine that produces 140 bhp and can touch 130 mph. Equipment levels are also good. It is all-round improvement over its questionably-styled, expensive predecessor in terms of visual appeal, value for money, refinement and desirability.
Read more about this topic: 1999 In Motoring
Famous quotes containing the word japan:
“I do not know that the United States can save civilization but at least by our example we can make people think and give them the opportunity of saving themselves. The trouble is that the people of Germany, Italy and Japan are not given the privilege of thinking.”
—Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882–1945)