Yaris Wins Car of the Year 2021 in Europe Award

Toyota's All-New Yaris Wins Car of the Year 2021 in Europe

Yaris Wins Car of the Year 2021 in Europe Award

Toyota's latest offering, the all-new Yaris, has been named the Car of the Year 2021 in Europe. This prestigious award, hosted by nine automotive magazines from nine countries, recognises the Yaris for its exceptional combination of advanced safety features, impressive environmental performance, and overall value.

Akio, who was deeply involved in the Yaris development, expressed his gratitude for the award. He was particularly happy that the normal Yaris, not the sporty GR Yaris, was recognised. Akio also thanked every customer who drives a Yaris from the bottom of his heart.

The Yaris's success can be attributed to the significant improvements made to its full-hybrid system. Toyota has managed to make the system more efficient, and the delayed Yaris was equipped with this new hybrid system on a much lighter body (50 kilograms less). This improvement has made the Yaris's hybrid system easier to use, enhancing the driving experience for customers.

The European Car of the Year jury highlighted the Yaris's top-of-class safety features as one of its key attributes. The Yaris offers a range of advanced safety features designed to protect its occupants and other road users. The jury also praised the Yaris for its fun-to-drive characteristics.

Seven other models were named in the shortlist for the award. Interestingly, the majority of the shortlisted cars were BEVs and PHEVs by European automakers, reflecting a growing focus on electric vehicles in the continent. However, the Yaris stood out as the only hybrid vehicle in the list.

Akio expressed encouragement that a hybrid received the Car of the Year in Europe. He promised to continue making ever-better cars that will make customers happy, while maintaining Toyota's commitment to lowering emissions without compromising the car's quality. Toyota currently has a full lineup of HEVs, PHEVs, FCEVs, and BEVs, demonstrating its commitment to a sustainable future.

The launch of the Yaris was delayed one year from the original target of 2019. Despite this setback, Toyota Motor East Japan in Tohoku plants, Toyota Motor Manufacturing France, GR Factory, and everyone involved in the development and launch of Yaris, GR Yaris, and Yaris Cross, should be commended for their hard work and dedication. Akio thanked all of them, expressing his appreciation for their efforts in bringing the Yaris to market.

In conclusion, the all-new Toyota Yaris's win in the Car of the Year 2021 in Europe is a testament to Toyota's commitment to innovation and practicality. The Yaris offers a safe, fun, and environmentally friendly driving experience, making it a worthy winner of this prestigious award.