Toyota launches updated Yaris in Europe, Vitz in Japan [w/videos]

Wed, 23 Apr 2014

Toyota first launched the Yaris in 1999, though that model was sold in the North America as the Echo. The second generation arrived in 2005, replaced by the third in 2011. Sometime next year, Toyota is expected to roll out a new Yaris for North America, to be built in Mexico on the same platform as the next Mazda2. But before that comes to pass, Toyota has introduced a mild facelift for the Yaris in markets other than ours.

With styling cues borrowed from the new Aygo and the Yaris Hybrid-R concept, the new Yaris (for Europe) and Vitz (for Japan) are distinguished by updated styling front and rear. Though the European model bears a more aggressive look than the JDM version, both feature the new X motif that seems to be the new look for the whole family – particularly for small hatchbacks.

The back end has also been revised to incorporate new LED taillights and a (faux) diffuser in the bumper. The cabin, meanwhile, has been redesigned to feel roomier and quieter with upgraded equipment. The suspension has also been refined, and in Europe at least, Toyota will continue to offer the Yaris with a choice of 1.0- or 1.3-liter gasoline engines, 1.4-liter diesel or hybrid powertrains.

We'd tell you more about the varied specifications, but Toyota, in all its worldwide wisdom, oddly released one photo and a press release for the EU-spec Yaris, a whole mess of photos but no press release for the JDM-spec Vitz, but videos for both. There's also a performance-oriented G's version for Japan in the gallery above. As for the North American version, we're still waiting for official word from Toyota USA, so stay tuned.

21 Apr 2014
NEW YARIS ADDS STYLE AND CONTENT

The Toyota Yaris will be significantly renewed during the Summer of 2014. Refreshed styling, an improved interior and upgraded dynamics combine to position the car amongst the strongest contenders in the highly competitive B-segment once more.

Brussels, Belgium - Yaris follows the example that was set by the New AYGO, and stands out from the B-segment crowd through its dramatic looks.

It builds on Toyota's 'Under Priority' and 'Keen Look' design language, and integrates a distinctive cross-shape, centred around the front logo, that separates the redesigned upper and lower grilles.

Around the back, the light blocks have been restyled and now feature LED technology. The overall stance has been improved through the integration of a diffuser in the bumper and a reshaped license plate area.

CABIN UPGRADE
In order to increase its appeal in a quickly evolving part of the market, a lot of work has gone into enriching the interior of Yaris. Customer feedback has inspired improvements in three key areas: firstly, to increase the feeling of roominess and dynamism; secondly, to lift perceived quality levels ; and thirdly, to add choice in terms of colours and equipment.

Under the skin, the suspension has been revised to improve comfort and handling simultaneously. Noise levels have been diminished. The engine offer continues to include a 1.0L and 1.3L petrol engine, a 1.4 D-4D engine and Yaris' trademark Hybrid powertrain.

Agustin Martin, Marketing Director for Toyota Motor Europe said "Since its launch, the Yaris has been one of the main pillars of our product offer. Last year, it was the 10th best selling name plate in the Europe. What makes it unique, is the availability of a Hybrid version. In the reality of today's congested traffic, there is simply no way to beat a Hybrid for comfort and stress-free transportation, and ever more customers are finding out."

By Noah Joseph