Yaris Becomes A Motability Contender
Toyota’s smallest star, the Yaris, is now available in GS and GLS form for customers who obtain their cars under the Motability scheme. Toyota says that there has been pent-up demand among those with special mobility requirements for the Yaris, named European Car of the Year 2000.
The three or five-door hatchback is noted for the large amount of interior space which belies its compact exterior, so easy access and comfort are assured in a car that is also outstandingly frugal on petrol. Lively 1.0-litre or 1.3-litre VVT-i 16-valve engines with manual transmission return 50.4mpg and 47.1mpg respectively on the combined circuit, and a four-speed automatic version is also available.
The Toyota Yaris has been recognised as the safest car in its class, boasting a four-star rating in the European New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP). Intelligent energy-absorbing crumple zones are built in to protect the occupants, who also benefit from twin airbags and a high-mounted rear stop lamp.
Other standard features such as tilt-adjustable wheel, power-assisted steering and mirrors, electric front windows and central 3D projected dashboard display help to make the Yaris easy to control with minimum effort. In addition, its ride and handling characteristics ensure a level of driveability and comfort more usually associated with larger cars.
“The Yaris projects a modern and strongly independent image that’s well-suited to the lifestyle of our Motability customers,” says Neal Standen, Fleet Business Development Manager for Toyota GB.
“It’s an attractive car with the sort of performance and generous specification levels that represent outstanding value for money.
“Advance payments for the Yaris under the Motability contract hire scheme are extremely competitive – and the car’s fuel economy is hard to beat.”
Motability is the charitable body designed to help the eighth of the UK population that have mobility problems. People who receive Higher Rate Disabled Living or War Pensioners’ Mobility allowances qualify for assistance in obtaining new vehicles on contract hire, while some 10 per cent opt to buy new or used vehicles on hire purchase under the scheme.
“Toyota is here to provide solutions for people who, for whatever reason, require assistance to stay mobile,” says Neal Standen. “Motability customers require access to independent transport and look for the same things as everyone else in a car – economy, driveability, safety and security. The Yaris is an excellent example of a vehicle that more than meets those needs.”
Most of the UK’s 230 Toyota dealerships have a Motability specialist trained to advise customers on suitable vehicles and, where necessary, adaptations to controls. Motability sales account for some 150,000 transactions a year and registrations under the scheme make up around four per cent of Toyota’s annual sales, with small cars in the Yaris class taking the lion’s share.
“In view of demand, we would expect to make a significant impact on that sector now that the Yaris GS and GLS are contenders,” says Neal Standen. The even roomier Yaris Verso is already available under the Motability scheme, along with larger vehicles including the Avensis, Previa MPV and RAV4 and Land Cruiser Colorado 4x4s.
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