Plenty of interior storage spaces are available in the Belta, including storage bins on the upper and lower dash, a massive
glove box and a roomy centre console that doubles as an arm rest. No word on the cupholder count, though.
While our version of the Belta would most likely be identical in trim and equipment level to the Yaris, while an entry-level sedan Toyota is pitching it as a premium subcompact in Japan. Aside from the regulars, such as power windows, power locks and mirrors, the options list includes Smart Entry & Keyless Start System for automatic door unlocking and one-touch engine starting, plus a digital climate control with Plasmacluster Ion particle filtration - both of which are unique to the subcompact segment.
While Toyota's North American-bound Belta is expected to be more no-nonsense and simple, the car makes a surprising amount of sense. It's got plenty
of space inside and in the trunk to happily accommodate four full adults and their gear, therefore offering the comfort and amenities that large car buyers desire, all while taking up less space and using less fuel than a regular compact.
The price sounds about right too, starting at the Japanese equivalent of approximately $13,100. It sounds like just the vehicle Toyota needs to maintain its grip on the subcompact segment, now ripe with new four-door sedans from Hyundai and Kia, and keep forthcoming rivals from Nissan and Honda less competitive.
While Toyota has not confirmed any information about the Belta, it is expected that Japan's number-one carmaker will unveil the four-door version alongside the three-door Yaris at January's North American International Auto Show in Detroit, as it will make up an integral part of the U.S.-market Yaris range for 2007.
 |
| Our version of the Belta would most likely be identical in trim and equipment level to the Yaris, unlike the luxuriously equipped Japanese version. (Photo: Toyota Canada) |
While our version of the Belta would most likely be identical in trim and equipment level to the Yaris, while an entry-level sedan Toyota is pitching it as a premium subcompact in Japan. Aside from the regulars, such as power windows, power locks and mirrors, the options list includes Smart Entry & Keyless Start System for automatic door unlocking and one-touch engine starting, plus a digital climate control with Plasmacluster Ion particle filtration - both of which are unique to the subcompact segment.
While Toyota's North American-bound Belta is expected to be more no-nonsense and simple, the car makes a surprising amount of sense. It's got plenty
 |
| It is expected that Japan's number-one carmaker will unveil the four-door version alongside the three-door Yaris at January's North American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Photo: Toyota Canada) |
The price sounds about right too, starting at the Japanese equivalent of approximately $13,100. It sounds like just the vehicle Toyota needs to maintain its grip on the subcompact segment, now ripe with new four-door sedans from Hyundai and Kia, and keep forthcoming rivals from Nissan and Honda less competitive.
While Toyota has not confirmed any information about the Belta, it is expected that Japan's number-one carmaker will unveil the four-door version alongside the three-door Yaris at January's North American International Auto Show in Detroit, as it will make up an integral part of the U.S.-market Yaris range for 2007.
Article Gallery