T Spirit 1.33 VVT-i Multidrive S 5dr Hatchback

A small car with a big car feel

We bought this to replace an old model yaris and although early days are very impressed with it. Interestingly, we test drove a manual version first and found that less impressive as it felt less responsive during acceleration and was not as refined when cruising.

It is the CVT gearbox (multidrive) which really makes this car. During gentle acceleration around town it is possible to not exceed 1500 revs and when cruising at 40mph for example the car sits happily at just 1000 revs. Even when cruising on the motorway at 70mph the car is only doing 2000 revs making the car relaxing to drive and very refined. The gearbox is beautifully smooth, and makes the car more economical and responsive than the manual version. We are currently averaging over 50mpg in normal use and around 55mpg during gentle motorway cruising.

The ride is firmer than the old model but the car feels more solid on the road as a result and corners very well indeed. My only criticism handling wise is that the steering is quite light and lacking a little in feel.

Build quality is excellent - the interior feels as if it has been machined from one solid piece with no squeaks or rattles at all - although I guess time will tell if this remains the case.

Specification is also a highlight - we love the glass panoramic roof which floods the interior with light and really adds to a feeling of well being. Keyless entry and go is superb - you can walk up to the boot, drivers or passenger door and simply put your hand on the handle and the car unlocks. Once inside, simply press the start button and you are ready to go. Touch and go system is superb with a rear view camera, sat nav and media centre which allows you to plug in an ipod or bluetooth music from a mobile phone whilst accessing all track information from the touch screen. Dual zone climate control, auto headlights, auto wipers and auto dimming rear view mirror are also highlights and genuinely useful.

Passenger space is excellent - genuinely room for 5 adults, and whilst the boot is slightly bigger than before the car has unfortunately lost the sliding rear seats which was a great feature on the previous version.

Avoid the 1ltr version - it is just too slow, and also avoid the SR model - this has bigger alloy wheels and sports suspension which give it the ride comfort of a go cart on solid wheels instead of rubber. And, if you can afford it, go for the auto - I've driven a lot of automatic cars and this has to be one of the best gearbox's I've ever used. It makes the car genuinely feel like it's come from a couple of classes above.

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