Toyota Details Facelifted Yaris

Toyota has returned with more photos and details of the facelifted Yaris for Europe, whose main design feature is the Aygo-inspired front end. While the model is aimed primarily at European consumers, many of the changes implemented in terms of design and platform will benefit the Japanese-market Toyota Vitz as well.
The front end of the car features Toyota’s “Keen Look and Under Priority” design concepts enhanced by the cross-shaped structure with the top and bottom parts separated. The headlamp clusters incorporate new projector lamp technology for both high and low beams, and LED daytime Running Lights (DRL).
Viewed from the sides, the new Yaris features a new door belt moulding, optional, electrically-folding door mirrors and a choice of four new, 15- and 16-inch alloy wheels. The rear end features a redesigned bumper incorporating a diffuser, new LED taillights and sculpted license place garnish.
On the inside, the quality of materials has been improved “both in feel and appearance”, while the equipment and choice of colors have also been diversified. The center console has been raised by 23mm (0.9 inches) to reduce the length of the gear shift lever by 30mm (1.2 inches) for improved gear changing ergonomics.
Additionally, a closed storage area has been added and the console touch screen has been increased in size from 6.1 inches to 7 inches, along with the upgrade to the latest, Toyota Touch 2 multimedia systems. The facelifted Yaris also features a range of all-new seat trims, with a new fabric pattern and color for each grade.
Toyota also says the facelifted Yaris features a more comfortable suspension, as well as efficient handling and driving pleasure, thanks to the addition of a new, stiffer torsion beam at the rear combined with softer coil springs and a new long polyurethane bound stopper. Softer coil springs have also been fitted to the front, while sound insulation is also said to have improved.
The Yaris will continue to be available with two gasoline engines (1.0-liter and 1.33-liter), a 1.4-liter D-4D diesel and a hybrid version. Rated at 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 mpg US), the latter currently makes up for almost 1 out of 3 Yaris sales. The 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine has undergone a major revamp, featuring a thermal efficiency of over 37 percent. This translates into low CO2 emissions (99 g/km, 95 g/km with the Stop & Start system).