In the driveway: 2012 Toyota Yaris SE

We've got the 2012 Toyota Yaris SE for review this week. Seen here next to the Yaris that Mercedes and I actually own, you can see there's quite a bit of difference in the rear end treatment. In fact, the two are quite different both exterior and interior wise. They do, however, have the same 1NZ-FE 1.5-liter DOHC engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

I've only driven the new Yaris about 10 miles, but so far I can tell you the seats are probably the best in the subcompact class, with great bolstering—very sporty. Gone is the center-mounted gauge cluster, and the interior feels and looks a lot better than my 2007's.

In the driving department, the '12 Yaris SE feels like it has a very quick steering ratio. I know it truly is quicker than the standard Yaris, and it's noticeable. Unsurprisingly, the new Yaris' engine/transmission feels very similar to the previous generation's powertrain. It is, of course, nearly identical. Stay tuned.