The latest Toyota Yaris—built on the impressive TNGA GA‑B platform—looks and feels like a typical supermini, but it’s hiding some clever extras.
Beyond the obvious safety tech and improved economy lies a suite of features you might’ve missed… until now.
Let’s dive into five brilliant, lesser‑known tricks designed to enhance your comfort, convenience and confidence behind the wheel.
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1. Smart Digital Key & “Hey Toyota” Voice Agent
First up: the Smart Digital Key, standard on Premiere Edition and optional on other trims.
Once paired via the MyT app, it lets up to five users lock, unlock or start the car using their smartphone—never hunting for keys again.
Pair that with the advanced “Hey Toyota” voice agent, and you’ve got natural‑language control for more than just navigation.
You can say phrases like “Hey Toyota, I’m cold” and the climate system responds—no menus, no touch needed.
It’s like your car actually listens.
If you’re curious about what insurance group this model falls into, check out our page on insurance group for a Toyota Yaris hybrid.
2. Multi‑Information Display with Personalised Layouts
Peek at the driver’s instrument cluster and you’ll find a 7‑inch multi‑info display that supports widgets, three layout styles, and four colour themes—Casual, Smart, Tough and Sporty.
Customisation means you control what shows: from hybrid system info to audio tracks or navigation alerts.
Located right in front of your eyes, this functionality subtly enhances your driving experience with an intuitive, intelligent interface that you only fully appreciate once you’ve personalised it.
If you’re wondering about the origins of your car, check out our page on where the Toyota Yaris is made.
3. Roof‑Mounted Rear Vents with Comfort Lighting
Hidden inside the cabin at the rear are roof‑mounted AC vents paired with adjustable flaps and soothing ambience LEDs.
Unlike typical footwell outlets in other B‑segment cars, these vents circulate air more effectively to back‑seat passengers and add a calming glow.
On warm summer mornings or evening drives, this design detail makes each journey just a little more pleasant.
4. Centre Airbag & Advanced TSS Suite
Hidden in plain sight?
The centre‑seat airbag and full Toyota Safety Sense package under the skin.
The fourth‑generation Yaris was the first B‑segment car to introduce this centre airbag, safeguarding front‑seat occupants in side‑impacts.
Standard TSS includes Pre‑Collision System with pedestrian/cyclist detection, Lane Departure Assist, Automatic High Beam, Intersection Turn Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind‑Spot Monitor, Rear Cross‑Traffic Alert, Emergency Steering Assist, and Intelligent Clearance Sonar with auto‑braking.
These aren’t flashy extras—they’re lifesaving hidden features.
Not sure what to do if your car has a safety issue out of the blue? Check out our page on what to do if a dealership sells you a faulty car.
5. CVT “Direct Shift” Launch Gear + Drive Modes
The Yaris may appear ordinary under the bonnet, but its K120 “Direct Shift” CVT hides a physical first gear—a launch gear that bridges standstill and belt drive, improving fuel efficiency and performance by approximately 6%.
On top of that, select trims offer Normal, Eco and Sport drive modes, allowing you to tailor the car’s throttle response and steering feel to match your mood or conditions.
Want crisp acceleration when overtaking?
Or maximised economy on a motorway cruise?
Dial it in with ease.
If you’re budgeting or negotiating for a new car, take a look at our guide on how much a dealership may come down on price.
Bonus: Ecological Score & Connected Vehicle Reminders
Though not tucked away physically, Toyota’s MyT app adds hidden value by offering eco‑driving scores and journey logs.
These insights—fuel consumption, acceleration habits—help you drive smarter and greener.
Furthermore, the app (and in‑car alerts) lets you set reminders for service intervals, geofence boundaries, seat‑belt chimes, and even rear‑seat occupant alerts—aimed at preventing that nightmare “did I leave anything behind?” scenario.
Need help planning ahead? Check out our page on how long a car service takes at a dealership.
Final Thoughts
The Yaris may look like a humble city run‑about, but beneath the modest exterior lies a thoughtful, tech‑rich package.
Between intuitive voice control, bespoke displays, clever cabin ventilation, hidden safety aids, efficient engineering and handy smart‑app features, even seasoned drivers can discover something new.
Next time you’re behind the wheel—or on a quick test drive—take a moment to explore these gems.
Chances are, you’ll find yourself enjoying the Yaris more than you ever expected.
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Your Next Ride Awaits at Car Knights
Explore our wide range of high-quality vehicles, from Audi’s, Toyota’s, Tesla’s, and Honda’s. Let us help you find the perfect car to fit your lifestyle and budget.
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