The key interior design goal for the new yaris was to create a more driver-focused cockpit with a symmetrical layout. the driver's and front passenger's spaces are clearly divided, emphasising a new f

• More driver-focused cockpit with a new emphasis on ergonomic excellence
• Improved driving position with new, steering wheel-centred instrument binnacle
• Roominess maximised throughout to give class-leading rear seat knee room and loadspace length
• Large, all-glass panoramic sunroof with front and rear roller shades

Incorporating strong horizontal lines to create a feeling of width, the dashboard is dominated by a sculpted, soft-padded section which flows away from the driver's space into matching, upper door panel pads, heightening the sense of interior spaciousness.

Dashboard and door pad colour is matched to seat upholstery inserts according to the grade structure, reinforcing the high-quality feel of the interior.

Perceptions of sensory quality are further enhanced through highly tactile, premium quality detailing. The driver's instruments, Multimedia touch screen and air vents are trimmed with gun metal finish, concave cross-sectioned rings. And all controls and switchgear feature chrome plated convex cross-sections.

Unlike previous Yaris generations, the instrument binnacle is now positioned central to the steering wheel, with all driver-focused controls and switchgear ergonomically located for high visibility and ease of use. A new, easy-to-read, amber/red backlit combination meter features a large diameter central speedometer.

Further enhancing driver comfort, the three-spoke, stitched leather steering wheel has a new, more comfortable grip cross-section, the steering column rake has been lowered by 3 degrees to deliver a more engaging driver position, and driver's seat vertical adjustability has been increased by 15 mm to a maximum 60 mm. A driver's seat armrest is also available for greater comfort.

The front seats themselves feature an entirely new framework offering improved body-holding performance and excellent ride comfort. The width of the seat cushion has been increased and the side sections raised for improved holding. And the seating surface area has been increased and the front edge of the seat cushion raised to help reduce long-distance fatigue.

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, passenger accommodation aboard the new Yaris has not been compromised. Wheelbase length has been increased by 50 mm and interior width by 30 mm. This, allied to the incremental saving of space through careful detailing throughout the interior, makes the new Yaris one of the roomiest vehicles in its segment.

Without compromise to either comfort or safety, both front and rear seatbacks, as well as the tailgate, have been thinned to maximise roominess throughout. This increases rear passenger knee clearance by 35 mm to a class-leading 645 mm, and loadspace depth by 145 mm to a class-leading 710 mm.

Overall luggage capacity within the two-tier loadspace has been raised to 286 litres, rising to 12 litres with the 60:40 split rear seats folded flat at 768 litres. And the tailgate opening has been widened by 20 mm for greater convenience.

The spaciousness and high sensory quality of the new interior is further reinforced through the Yaris' large, all-glass panoramic sunroof. The structure is separated into front and rear sections allowing more flexibility for front and rear occupant to open or close, each fitted with a 20% light transmittance roller shade.