This month, new cars will be serving up the number 12 on their registration plates, and at John Roe Toyota, they are celebrating the plate change with the Big 12 promotion, which makes the AYGO, Yaris, Auris, Auris Hybrid and Verso models even more attractive propositions.

John Roe's Big 12 Promotion means if you order a new car now John Roe Toyota will throw in free servicing for two years and 0 per cent finance for three years, providing you with worry-free motoring.

The Yaris name is a familiar one in the Toyota range, but the car itself is brand new. Having adopted Toyota's latest "look" the little Yaris now bears a much closer resemblance to its big sister, the Auris.

I've been testing the mid-range TR model, which comes with a lively 1.33-litre VVTi engine.

The Japanese manufacturer has done an excellent job with the new Yaris.

It's compact, practical, easy to live with, well built and with the 1.33-litre engine this test car came with, surprisingly good to drive.

It will accelerate from rest to 0-62mph in 11.7 seconds and has a top speed of 109mph, and once on the move is entertainingly nippy.

The six-speed gearbox slots accurately and the car cruises quietly at speed, with the engine revs low to maximise economy.

The car feels nicely poised on the road too, thanks to well chosen suspension settings which provide a nice combination of a comfortable ride and agile handling. There is plenty of "feel" through the steering and the Yaris handles very competently, even on less than perfect road surfaces.

Toyota's Optimal Drive is standard across the range and gear shift indicators help the driver squeeze every last mile out of each gallon of fuel.

Overall, during my test, this Yaris averaged around 43mpg in mixed road and driving conditions.

With five doors, comfortable seats and a spacious boot, the new Yaris has plenty of space. The rear seatbacks will fold down, but sit proud of the boot floor which means the load area has a step in it.

The Yaris feels very well built inside and out, and although there is plenty of black plastic adorning the interior, it all feels securely put together and in the car I tested, there were no squeaks or rattles in evidence.

The new Yaris may look more grown up, but it is still easy to live with and fun to drive. I'm a fan and I think you will be too. Why not visit the John Roe dealership and try one for yourself?