Ever think about what you experience when you move up through the model hierarchy of any mainstream car brand? Well, besides the obvious factor of size, you also get more comfort and refinement.

Whether you're an enthusiast or someone who doesn't care much about cars, everyone values superior comfort. People often upgrade to higher models because of this.

But here's the thing: you don't have to go all the way to the most expensive models to indulge in absolute comfort. Starting at just RM 88,000, you can relish what we regard as the most comfortable hatchback presently available in Malaysia – the 2023 Toyota Yaris.

So, what exactly makes a car comfortable? Well, it boils down to three main things: how smooth the suspension is, the level of noise inside the car, and the comfort of the seats.

Also read: 2023 Toyota Yaris receives second update for Malaysia - Larger 9-inch screen and up to RM 5k pricier

When we talk about a car's refinement, we often use the term NVH, which stands for Noise, Vibration, Harshness. Simply put, the lower the NVH, the more refined and comfortable the car feels. 

NVH is usually assessed subjectively, meaning we feel it through our senses, particularly our bums and ears. While we use a sound level meter to measure noise objectively, it doesn't account for the frequency of the sound.

Our perception of noise is influenced by its frequency. Higher frequencies may seem louder, while lower frequencies are less irritating and less fatiguing over time. This means there's a subjective element in how we perceive a car's quietness.

Apart from NVH, another critical comfort factor is the seats. Good seats can make a car, while uncomfortable ones can break it. A seat that offers proper thigh, side, lumbar support, and more is the ultimate icing on the cake.

In the case of the 2023 Toyota Yaris, it excels in all three key comfort factors. Cabin insulation is a strong point – our tests measured an average noise level that puts the Yaris on par with cars in a higher segment. Subjectively, the general frequency of noise while in motion is in the lower range, making long-distance journeys less tiring.

The Yaris' suspension is finely tuned to effortlessly smooth out the worst our Malaysian roads have to offer. The damping in the Yaris is just spot on, providing a wafting sensation usually reserved for premium/luxury cars.

The Yaris doesn't compromise on seating either. The seats are not only comfortable but also supportive. The side bolsters keep you snug without being overly aggressive, and the seat design avoids creating pressure points that could lead to backaches on long journeys.

But the Yaris isn’t just about comfort – it’s a statement on your sense of style, evident in the two-tone colour options and sharp-looking aero kit on the lower apron of the car. The addition of paddle shifters give more control when you're feeling enthusiastic.

The Yaris doesn't just stop at comfort and style, it's packed with up-to-date tech features. The newly introduced 9-inch display with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay ensures seamless smartphone connectivity.

The 3D PVM (Satellite Birds Eye View) gives anyone the ability to park like a pro, while the Vehicle Telematic System allows you to track your Yaris with your smartphone. It also includes an RFID tag and a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) that’s pretty much compulsory these days.

Further highlighting Toyota's commitment to keeping you connected and secure on the road are 7 airbags and the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) ADAS suite as standard across the two variants. TSS comprises a pre-collision system (PCS), lane departure alert (LDA), and blind-spot monitors (BSM) with rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA).

Beyond the car itself, the Yaris reflects Toyota's core values - bulletproof reliability, an extensive sales and after-sales network, and a 5-year warranty. Owning a Yaris isn't just about having a car; it's a symbol of your style and success.

To sweeten the deal, Toyota Malaysia is currently offering a limited-time promotion worth RM 7,500. Coupled with a low installment plan starting from RM 658, the Yaris becomes not just a choice of comfort and style but an incredible value proposition.

Take a moment to personally explore the Yaris, and chances are, you'll arrive at the same conclusion we did: an unbeatable hatchback under RM 100k that combines comfort, style, and a plethora of features.