I'm no mechanic, but i suspect there is a problem with the clutch as it shouldn't be too heavy. My dad used to have a 1.0 Yaris, i think it was a 2007, and it was absolutely fine. The Yaris is a car which appeals to folk who want something reliable and easy to drive so i very much doubt a heavy clutch would be the norm.

The Jazz is aimed at a very similar type of buyer, so i would expect very similar clutch and gearchange characteristics. As for the seats, that is a very personal thing, so while i like the seats in our current shape Jazz (CVT auto), you might not, you'd have to try it.

Can only say that my wife is now on her third consecutive Yaris...currently a 1.33 TR..and having driven them all I can say none have had a heavy clutch..

The Jazz is an equally fine, reliable car however...we simply prefer our Toyotas.

Is there any creaking or other noise associated with depressing the clutch pedal? My old mid 90s Micra had this issue, including a heavier clutch, and it was diagnosed as a worn (frayed) clutch cable and replaced relatively cheaply. No problems after.

As others have said, it's worth you looking at a) testing out other similar cars to see if the issue is you personally finding clutches hard work, possibly indicating a health issue, and b) having the car then checked to see if there's an issue - it could be something relatively minor and easy/cheap to fix like mine was.

Best of luck getting to the bottom of this issue.

Will need a new clutch, it's actually the cover that causes the clutch pedal to be heavy, but obviously it would be foolish not to replace the plate and bearing at the same time.