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31/10/2008 15:07.  Looking for a Yaris with a punch? Toyota's sporty Yaris TS was unveiled at the Johannesburg International Motor Show.

Typically Toyota, styling of the range-topping Yaris TS model is subtle rather than aggressive and the manufacturer hopes this will help make it a success with both male and female drivers.

This Yaris TS's front bumper, headlight cluster and grille have been revised and at the rear this popular car has a roof spoiler with an new bumper that makes the car appear wider with a lower centre of gravity.

A monster 100-mm diameter exhaust adds to the drama.

This Yaris's cabin features sports seats and the level of specification is said to be high, something to be expected on a car sources reveal will cost around R180 000



But most of the fun will be sourced from the new 1.8-litre dual VVT-i engine producing 98 kW at 6 000 r/min and torque of 173 Nm at 4 400 r/min. With 90% of this peak torque on offer between 2 000 and 6 000 r/min, the TS promises good mid-range performance.

In this new engine, Toyotas VVT-i system has been transformed into a dual VVT-i system that simultaneously varies the timing of both the intake and exhaust valves.

Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, top speed, according to Toyota, is "close to 200 km/h" and the Yaris TS sprints to 100 km/h from a standing start in just over nine seconds.

Fuel consumption is quoted at 7 l/100 km.

While the suspension has been left largely untouched, the standard electric power steering's higher ratio allows for more control when required.

Yaris TS rides on 17-inch wheels and large diameter brakes (ventilated at the front and solid at the rear) ensure ample stopping power.

Wheels24 is at the Johannesburg International Motor Show . Check back regularly for updates and video footage straight from the show floor. The show opens to the public from Saturday November 1.

Dont miss IGNITION TVs exclusive coverage of the Johannesburg International Motor Show. Youll get front row seats  to  every new car launch, plus all the glitz, the glam ... and the girls.  For all the highlights from Africas greatest motoring event, tune in to DStv 412 at 7am , 1pm or 5pm every weekday, and throughout the weekends. // Wheels24.co.za