The fun-to-drive Toyota Yaris line-up includes an enhanced GR SPORT grade and stylish new options for its 2025 model year while maintaining a commitment to class-leading efficiency and safety in the highly competitive B-segment.

An agile compact car ideally suited to modern urban life, with proven quality, exceptional efficiency and fun-to-drive dynamics, the multiple award-winning Yaris is consistently one of Toyota’s best-selling models in Europe. The Yaris family has accumulated more than 10 million global sales, including more than five million in Europe, since its launch in 1999.

Yaris has been a benchmark for innovation since its debut, whilst staying true to a “big-small” philosophy which combines a compact and purposeful exterior with spacious interior. From raising the bar on safety to pioneering full hybrid power in the B-segment and becoming the first compact car built on the modular Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-B platform, Yaris has continually set new standards for a quarter of a century.

Toyota’s latest version of the fourth generation Yaris is built in Europe, for European customers, and now offers new choices with enhanced aesthetic options as well as an eye-catching update of the Yaris GR SPORT grade.

Three years after first hitting the streets, the new Yaris GR SPORT looks keener than ever thanks to new exterior and interior styling which capture the spirit of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, Toyota’s multiple championship winning motorsport team.

An emotive new colour, Storm Grey, is available exclusively on the Yaris GR SPORT in 2025, both in monotone and bi-tone options, while striking 18-inch matt alloy wheels impress with a bold new design.

Inside, the Yaris GR SPORT’s stylish interior execution – with stand-out red stitching and gun metal grey accents – is upgraded by an embossed GR SPORT logo on the headrests, achieving a clean and sophisticated look.

The 2025 Yaris line-up includes the all-new Forest Green colour, either as elegant monotone or striking bi-tone in combination with contrasting black roof, which compliments the muscular, agile lines and styling that is true to Yaris’ poised handling and responsive chassis.

The Yaris 2025 range continues to employ a “dual hybrid” approach to meet customers’ varying needs and ensure exceptional efficiency, via best-in-class environmental performance with the “Hybrid 115”, or the “Hybrid 130” with its sharper acceleration and even more engaging drive. By offering a choice of performance profile, Yaris has strong appeal to customers, who rank hybrid as the top purchase consideration.

Throughout the Yaris range, drivers benefit from the latest technologies for an outstanding user experience. Toyota T-Mate includes the latest generation Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance systems, making the car safer, easier to drive and park. Meanwhile, a digital user experience features a customisable driver’s instrument display and a powerful multimedia system with display screens of up to 10.5 inches.

Drivers can experience the new Toyota Yaris, including the Toyota Yaris GR SPORT, in 2025, with start of production planned for February next year.

 

Under the hood
The green credentials of the Toyota Yaris have significantly improved over the years. Comparing the first Toyota Yaris with the 3 millionth production milestone, a Yaris Hybrid, shows that both CO₂ emission and fuel consumption levels have almost halved, even if weight and power output are up. The drag coefficient, which indirectly contributes to the car’s environmental performance, has improved from 0.30 to 0.286. Even the comparison to today’s petrol (non hybrid) version shows the Yaris engineers have kept up with the trend to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

Head start thanks to eco design
A car doesn’t only draw its green credentials on the road: the way a car is produced is equally important. From the start TMMF has been designed to leave the smallest environmental footprint possible. In some workshops the storage areas are up to 10 times more compact compared to automotive industry standards with similar production output. Visually, the low building has been discretely integrated in the landscape. In 2007, TMMF was named one of the five sustainable plants of Toyota around the world, making the French plant an industrial benchmark for all other plants of the Toyota Group in terms of environmental performance.

Using 90% less water compared to 2002, making the plant autonomous in industrial water
TMMF has earned this acknowledgement after posting impressive results in water, waste and energy management, year after year. TMMF consumes 90% less industrial water today than in 2002, the first full year of production, and can run without drawing any water from the network – just using rain and recycled water. Sixty percent is rainwater that is collected in the two on-site basins with a combined volume of 16,000m³ and flows through the plant’s water treatment system to meet the required standards before usage in the production process. The remaining 40% is water that is recycled from the plant’s waste water after pre-treatment in the same water treatment system. As the water is processed both before and after usage in the production process, its quality exceeds the environmental norms and excess water can be safely released in the neighbouring river, the Scheldt.

100% waste is transformed, none is sent to landfill
TMMF has always been a plant with zero waste to landfill, but since 2007 it is successfully reclaiming 100% of its waste. Since 2001 any waste is carefully being either reused, recycled or recovered. Industrial oils and paint thinners are collected for reuse or regeneration; steel and aluminium make new raw materials; wood, cardboard and plastic wrappings are being recycled; the small amount of waste that is left is used as an alternative fuel source.

57% energy savings compared to 2002
Even though energy consumption was already at a very low level thanks to the compact building concept, TMMF managed to reduce the energy consumption by 57% compared to 2002 thanks to close monitoring, smart insulation, and saving on lighting to name just a few measures. Moreover, TMMF has been investing in pilot projects for renewables. Two and a half tons of CO2 per year are saved thanks to a photovoltaic membrane on the plant’s roof. Another saving of 18,4 tons of CO2 per year results from a solar wall that heats the outside air flowing into some of the workshops. Most recently, an existing gas boiler has been replaced with a biomass boiler, resulting in CO2 savings in the order of 1285 tons/year.

3 millionth Toyota Yaris for French customer
The 3 millionth unit is a black and white bi-tone Yaris Hybrid that will go to a French customer. 87% of the total production is being exported to 42 destinations (European region in addition to US, Canada and Puerto Rico). Over the last 15 years more than 1 billion euros has been invested in the plant that has been home to the production of the three generations of Toyota Yaris, an equal number of minor changes, a hybrid version since 2012 and a variant for export to North America since 2013.

At first glance, it’s not so hard to spot the differences between the very first Toyota Yaris, produced on 31 January 2001, and the 3 millionth unit that rolled off the conveyer belt at TMMF, Toyota’s plant in Valenciennes, in the north of France. But when you look beyond the surface, you realise there is a lot more to those changes that meet the eye.

Under the hood 

The green credentials of the Toyota Yaris have significantly improved over the years. Comparing the first Toyota Yaris with the 3 millionth production milestone, a Yaris Hybrid, shows that both CO2 emission and fuel consumption levels have almost halved, even if weight and power output are up. The drag coefficient, which indirectly contributes to the car’s environmental performance, has improved from 0.30 to 0.286. Even the comparison to today’s petrol (non hybrid) version shows the Yaris engineers have kept up with the trend to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

Head start thanks to eco design

A car doesn’t only draw its green credentials on the road: the way a car is produced is equally important. From the start TMMF has been designed to leave the smallest environmental footprint possible. In some workshops the storage areas are up to 10 times more compact compared to automotive industry standards with similar production output. Visually, the low building has been discretely integrated in the landscape. In 2007, TMMF was named one of the five sustainable plants of Toyota around the world, making the French plant an industrial benchmark for all other plants of the Toyota Group in terms of environmental performance.Head start thanks to eco design

Using 90% less water compared to 2002, making the plant autonomous in industrial water

TMMF has earned this acknowledgement after posting impressive results in water, waste and energy management, year after year. TMMF consumes 90% less industrial water today than in 2002, the first full year of production, and can run without drawing any water from the network – just using rain and recycled water. Sixty percent is rainwater that is collected in the two on-site basins with a combined volume of 16,000m³ and flows through the plant’s water treatment system to meet the required standards before usage in the production process. The remaining 40% is water that is recycled from the plant’s waste water after pre-treatment in the same water treatment system. As the water is processed both before and after usage in the production process, its quality exceeds the environmental norms and excess water can be safely released in the neighbouring river, the Scheldt.

100% waste is transformed, none is sent to landfill

TMMF has always been a plant with zero waste to landfill, but since 2007 it is successfully reclaiming 100% of its waste. Since 2001 any waste is carefully being either reused, recycled or recovered. Industrial oils and paint thinners are collected for reuse or regeneration; steel and aluminium make new raw materials; wood, cardboard and plastic wrappings are being recycled; the small amount of waste that is left is used as an alternative fuel source.

57% energy savings compared to 2002

Even though energy consumption was already at a very low level thanks to the compact building concept, TMMF managed to reduce the energy consumption by 57% compared to 2002 thanks to close monitoring, smart insulation, and saving on lighting to name just a few measures. Moreover, TMMF has been investing in pilot projects for renewables. Two and a half tons of CO2 per year are saved thanks to a photovoltaic membrane on the plant’s roof. Another saving of 18,4 tons of CO2 per year results from a solar wall that heats the outside air flowing into some of the workshops. Most recently, an existing gas boiler has been replaced with a biomass boiler, resulting in CO2 savings in the order of 1285 tons/year.

3 millionth Toyota Yaris for French customer

The 3 millionth unit is a black and white bi-tone Yaris Hybrid that will go to a French customer. 87% of the total production is being exported to 42 destinations (European region in addition to US, Canada and Puerto Rico). Over the last 15 years more than 1 billion euros has been invested in the plant that has been home to the production of the three generations of Toyota Yaris, an equal number of minor changes, a hybrid version since 2012 and a variant for export to North America since 2013.

The production site of Valenciennes is churning out more than 300 Yaris Hybrid vehicles a day. Yaris Hybrid production represents nearly 40% of total Yaris production, up from the initial 25% in April 2012 when Toyota's plant in the north of France started producing the hybrid version of its Yaris. The increasing figure is testimony not only to the success of Toyota's hybrid technology but also to the popular Yaris model.

The Yaris is by far Toyota's best selling model across the European region. In 2014 Toyota Motor Europe sold 181,105 Yaris, meaning one out of five Toyota sold in Europe is a Yaris. Among these, a third of the vehicles are hybrids (58,530).

France tops the list of the largest destination markets, absorbing 20% of Yaris Hybrid production, preceeding Italy and the United Kingdom who each take a 16% portion of the hybrid output.

A Yaris Hybrid is equipped with a 1.5 liter petrol engine and an electric motor. Similar to all other Toyota full hybrid models, the battery is recharged when braking and accelerating (without any need to plug in).

The Toyota Yaris Hybrid consumes as little as 3,3 l/100 km* and emits only 75g/km CO2*, positioning it as the least CO2 emitting (non plug in) hybrid of the market according to ADEME testing**.

The Yaris Hybrid has been labelled « Origine France Garantie » since August 2012 and has been manufactured by the 3800 employees of the Toyota Valenciennes plant.

* According to the European measurement cycle NEDC

** http://carlabelling.ademe.fr

Much of this ongoing sales success may be attributed to the introduction of the Yaris Hybrid in 2012. 170,000 hybrid units have been sold since its European launch at the end of June in that year, a figure expected to rise to over 200,000 by the end of 2015. The full hybrid model currently accounts for more than 35% of all European Yaris sales and is expected to grow further.

The introduction of the Toyota Safety Sense system to the Yaris model range in June 2015 places it at the very top of its segment for active and passive safety. By the end of this year, Toyota anticipates that one in three Yaris’ produced will be equipped with the company’s innovative integrated safety technology.

Bringing a breath of fresh air and even greater appeal to the Toyota Yaris range, a revised grade structure will be available throughout Europe from January 2016. It introduces bold new colours, high-quality trim and stylish upholstery finishes across the model line-up.

New Style Grade – most striking execution now available on Hybrid Models

For the first time, the Style grade also becomes available on the Hybrid, combining our most advanced execution with the most innovative powertrain.

An enhanced Style grade features a new, Black-painted honeycomb grille with satin chrome ornament and front foglight surrounding.

The interior benefits from new, all-black seat upholstery and a new Piano black inserts inside the cabin.

Bi-Tone:

A new dynamic and elegant touch

Adding a touch of true élan to the Yaris range, a new Bi-Tone option combines a metallic black ‘wrap-around’ exterior paint treatment with a choice of exclusive interior finishes.

Based on the Style grade, the Bi-Tone version combines a choice of Pearl White, Platinum Bronze or Barcelona Red exterior colours with a ‘wrap-around’ metallic Black finish to the roof, A pillars, door mirrors, upper front wing and bonnet leading edge.

Incorporating a black head liner to match the exterior roof treatment, the Bi-Tone interior offers a choice of three exclusive colour schemes; all-Black, Warm Grey or Soft-gradation Grey.

With three new Bi-Tone versions Toyota is giving customers the possibility to have their own unique Yaris execution.

The new Style grade and the new Bi-Tone version add even greater appeal to the 2016 Yaris model range.

Much of this ongoing sales success may be attributed to the introduction of the Yaris Hybrid in 2012. 170,000 hybrid units have been sold since its European launch at the end of June in that year, a figure expected to rise to over 200,000 by the end of 2015. The full hybrid model currently accounts for more than 35% of all European Yaris sales and is expected to grow further.

The introduction of the Toyota Safety Sense system to the Yaris model range in June 2015 places it at the very top of its segment for active and passive safety. By the end of this year, Toyota anticipates that one in three Yaris' produced will be equipped with the company's innovative integrated safety technology.

Bringing a breath of fresh air and even greater appeal to the Toyota Yaris range, a revised grade structure will be available throughout Europe from January 2016. It introduces bold new colours, high-quality trim and stylish upholstery finishes across the model line-up.

New Style Grade — most striking execution now Available on Hybrid Models

For the first time, the Style grade also becomes available on the Hybrid, combining our most advanced execution with the most innovative powertrain.

An enhanced Style grade features a new, Black-painted honeycomb grille with satin chrome ornament and front foglight surrounding.

The interior benefits from new, all-Black seat upholstery and a new Piano Black inserts inside the cabin.

Bi-Tone: A new dynamic and elegant touch 

Adding a touch of true élan to the Yaris range, a new Bi-Tone option combines a metallic black 'wrap-around' exterior paint treatment with a choice of exclusive interior finishes.

Based on the Style grade, the Bi-Tone version combines a choice of Pearl White, Platinum Bronze or Barcelona Red exterior colours with a 'wrap-around' metallic Black finish to the roof, A pillars, door mirrors, upper front wing and bonnet leading edge.

Incorporating a black head liner to match the exterior roof treatment, the Bi-Tone interior offers a choice of three exclusive colour schemes all-Black, Warm Grey or Soft-gradation Grey.

With three new Bi-Tone version Toyota is giving customers the possibility to have their own unique Yaris execution.

Due to be revealed for the first time at the 2015 Frankfurt motor show, the new Style grade and the new Bi-Tone version add even greater appeal to the 2016 Yaris model range.

Discussing the new 2014 Yaris, Alessandro Massimino, Product Manager at Toyota Motor Europe said: "Yaris has always been a very powerful proposition from a rational perspective: great packaging, durability, cost of ownership... And we've had an extremely positive response to the hybrid version. So, with the new 2014 Yaris, we wanted to go one step further: to create a vehicle that would appeal not only to our customer's brains, but also to their hearts.'

Dynamic, Emotive Exterior Design 

New, 2014 Yaris features an even stronger, more dynamic execution of Toyota's bold Under Priority frontal design language with Keen Look detailing. The narrow upper and large, trapezoidal lower grilles which hallmark Under Priority design now merge to form a powerful, cross-shaped structure.

A chrome trim bar runs through the length of the upper grille into Keen Look headlamp clusters, tying the frontal elements together with a strong, horizontal emphasis of vehicle width. The headlamp clusters themselves incorporate new projector lamp technology for both high and low beams, and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Underlined by a 'floating' spoiler which further strengthens the dominance of the Under Priority design language, the large, trapezoidal lower grille focuses attention on the bottom of the new Yaris, reinforcing the dynamic potential of its ground-hugging stance and low centre of gravity.

To the rear, a new bumper design gives the appearance of a broader, lower stance, whilst the integral diffuser strengthens the new Yaris' road presence with a more sporting, self-confident image. Upgraded rear lamp clusters incorporate a new, LED light graphic which further enhances the vehicle's personality with a unique lighting signature made possible by using light-guide technology.

Unlike the previous generation Yaris, all powertrain derivatives now share the same overall styling, with more subtle cues alone identifying different versions, including the Yaris Hybrid.

More Sophisticated Interior with Enhanced Sensory Quality

The new interior design reflects three key, customer-informed objectives: enhanced roominess and dynamism in the cabin, improved sensory quality and overall visual simplification with better colour variation and more sophisticated finishes.

Creating a more horizontal feel to the dashboard, the upper instrument panel is thinner, and the upper surface of the driver's instrument binnacle has been restyled for a slimmer look. The door panel has also been redesigned to combine a more fluid, dynamic appearance with a larger soft-touch area and greater functionality.

The centre console has been raised by 23 mm to reduce the length of the gear shift lever. Now featuring the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia systems, the console touch screen has been increased in size from 6.1" to 7". This visually emphasises one of the Yaris' unique features.

The area of soft touch finishes has been increased within the cabin. The upper instrument panel grain finish has been changed for improved tactility and a less glossy appearance. The Yaris-trademark, sculpted central dashboard panel features an increase in soft-padding thickness, and its graining differs between model grades.

Throughout, normal chrome trim has been replaced by satin chrome, giving a more modern, sophisticated appearance. The new, 2014 Yaris further benefits from a range of all-new seat trims, with a new fabric pattern and colour for each grade.

New Grade Strategy and Equipment for Broader Appeal

Matching the B-segment's widening base, new 2014 Yaris offers broader appeal through a range of more clearly differentiated grades, each with their own unique character.

This differentiation is reinforced through grade-specific interior colour schemes, and varying treatments to numerous exterior and interior elements, including the lower grille, alloy wheels, seats, centre console, instrument panel, and steering wheel inserts. For instance, diverse treatments of the lower grille and the grille surround inserts will identify the different model grades: the Yaris Hybrid will feature a piano black grille with satin chrome surround, reflecting its high-tech credentials.

High equipment levels feature throughout the grade structure, with a leather steering wheel, air-conditioning and the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system fitted as standard from Active grade. A comprehensive range of optional equipment includes Toyota Touch 2 with Go, an enhanced, full map navigation system with online connectivity.

In addition to the conventional vertical range structure, the choice of trim finishes has been extended horizontally with the arrival of two additional grades. A dynamic Style grade features special 16-inch alloy wheels, a unique, square mesh radiator grille pattern and optional Red pack interior highlighting.

Focusing on comfort and quality of life onboard, the Lounge grade is differentiated by 15-inch alloy wheels, chrome inserts surrounding a black radiator grille and optional Light Brown interior trim for a warmer and softer appearance.

Though the 2014 Yaris range now offers closer styling unity, subtle differences still allow the range-topping Hybrid grade to stand out. It features a unique front and rear LED lighting signature, a piano black radiator grille and specially-designed 15- or 16-inch alloy wheels. A high-tech interior is finished in a blend of black and grey, with blue instrument back-lighting and partial Alcantara® upholstery.

Widest Powertrain Choice in the B-Segment

The new Yaris offers a choice of four powertrains: two petrol, one diesel and one hybrid. The comprehensively improved 3-cylinder 1.0 petrol unit is the first member of a new family of 14 highly thermally efficient engines to be launched globally by 2015.

Alternating between the Atkinson and Otto cycles for the optimum combination of fuel efficiency and performance, the 1.0 litre unit's exceptional thermal efficiency of 37% means that it now boasts a combined-cycle fuel consumption of 4.1 l/100 km and CO2 emissions reduced to 95 g/km.

1.33 petrol and 1.4 diesel engines have benefited from modifications aimed at reducing noise and vibration. Mated to 6-speed manual gearboxes, they both enable the Yaris to reach a top speed of 175 km/h with fuel consumption in the combined cycle of 4.8 l/100 km for the 1.33 petrol version and 3.8 l/100 km for the 1.4 D-4D. The 1.33 petrol unit is available with a continuously variable Multidrive transmission.

The Yaris Hybrid is powered by a 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle 1,497cc engine. This hybrid powertrain has also been revamped. In order to further reduce internal friction, the valve lifters have been coated with a diamond like carbon (DLC) material. In addition, the software of the Hybrid system has evolved in order to improve energy recovery. As a result, the Yaris Hybrid's CO2 emissions and combined cycle fuel consumption are still further reduced to 75 g/km and 3.3 l/100 km respectively.

Improved Driving Pleasure

The 2014 Yaris features comprehensive, customer feedback-driven improvements to its ride comfort and handling, with a significant reduction in Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH).

A more rigid upper and lower body structure offers a more direct and linear response to steering inputs, allowing a more comfortable ride whilst maintaining balanced body control.

The rear suspension has been redesigned to incorporate a new, stiffer torsion beam. Combined with softer coil springs, this improves ride comfort whilst maintaining good body roll control. The front suspension also features softer coil springs for greater ride comfort, whilst the introduction of rebound springs within the shock absorbers increases front anti-roll stiffness, improving handling and reducing body roll during cornering.

In addition, new front and rear shock absorber valve technology reduces the transmission of vibrations from the road surface and further improves the new Yaris' ride quality without compromising its handling agility.

New electric power steering control logic takes advantage of these bodyshell stiffness and suspension enhancements to offer customers significantly improved steering feel, responsiveness and accuracy for a more engaging driving experience.

The 2014 Yaris also benefits from a marked reduction in interior noise levels through three key measures: the reduction of high frequency noise from the engine and the road surface the reduction of low frequency noise from the engine and the reduction of wind noise during high speed driving.

Yaris Success Boosted by Hybrid Technology

Europe is the world's fastest growing hybrid market. Sales increased by 34% in 2013, with the region accounting for 12% of total global hybrid sales.

Over the same period, European sales of Toyota hybrids have risen by some 43%, and 1 in 5 of all Toyota passenger vehicles sold is now a hybrid.

The Yaris Hybrid sold almost 50,000 units in 2013, and now accounts for 31% of total Yaris sales in Western Europe. It is the best-selling alternative powertrain in the B-segment, and the second-best-selling car in the entire European alternative powertrain market (EV, Hybrid and PHV) just behind the Toyota Auris Hybrid.

Toyota's hybrid powertrain offers customers a uniquely smooth, quiet and entirely intuitive driving experience. It delivers strong, seamless acceleration from a standstill and, under electric motor power alone, near-silent running with zero CO₂, NOx and particulate emissions.

Through these attributes, all Toyota hybrids not only generate significantly stronger brand loyalty than petrol or diesel powertrains, but also consistently instil greater loyalty to hybrid powertrains themselves than any other manufacturer.

With rival hybrids only now entering diverse market segments, Toyota's early investment in this technology has enabled it to sustain a clear lead in alternative powertrain technology. And it anticipates that, by 2020, 15% of all passenger vehicles will be equipped with a hybrid powertrain.

The work carried out in Belgium and France on the fundamental aspects of the Yaris 2014 - external design, interior design and platform - has been fully adopted on some versions of the Vitz produced in Japan. This exemplary exchange of know-how is, for Toyota Motor Europe, the first tangible application of the new thinking advocated by the Global Vision revealed in 2011 by Akio Toyoda.

Following the trend initiated by the new AYGO, the new Yaris features more distinctive stylistic aspects. They strengthen Yaris emotional appeal without sacrificing any of the rational strength of the original car, such as package and durability. Alessandro Massimino, Product Manager in Brussels explains: "Yaris was always extremely strong in its rational dimensions: great packaging, durability, cost of ownership… What we wanted to achieve was to connect the model not only with our customers' brains, but also with their hearts."

The Yaris front benefits from the development of Toyota's «Keen Look and Under Priority» design concepts enhanced by the cross-shaped structure with the top and bottom parts separated. At the rear, the redesigned bumper incorporating a diffuser, the introduction of a new LED rear light cluster with light guide patterns and the sculpted licence plate garnish give the Yaris a stronger stance on the road.

The interior has undergone some important modifications aimed at improving driving pleasure and onboard comfort. Efforts have focused particularly on the quality of the materials which, both in feel and appearance, have significantly changed compared to the previous model. The equipment and choice of colours have also been broadly diversified.

Lastly, the new Yaris has benefited from major work aimed at significantly improving suspension comfort and sound insulation, as well as efficient handling and driving pleasure.

The Yaris remains available with a 1.0 and 1.33 petrol powertrain, a 1.4 D-4D and finally the hybrid, which today already makes up for almost 1 out of 3 sales.

More than 84% of the Yaris models produced at Valenciennes in northern France is for export. Not only to 42 countries in Europe, but also to the Unites States, Canada and Puerto Rico. In 2014, 26,000 Yaris models will be set to cross the Atlantic, accounting for 12% of the production.

FROM A GLOBAL VISION TO REGIONALISATION

• Toyota Europe to take leading role in the planning of compact cars
• Largest scale regionalised development by TME with global implementation

From the new thinking about Toyota's Global Vision, led by its President Akio Toyoda in 2011, came the certainty that, in order meet the needs and desires of consumers worldwide, more responsibilities and freedom had to be given to the 17 Research and Development Centres around the globe.

This change in attitude to the Group's worldwide strategy led to the creation of specialist hubs in each region of the world. The directors of the Toyota Group have paid particular attention to Europe because this is the region where the car culture is most firmly established and where car manufacturers have world-renowned expertise.

Toyota Europe's role within global Toyota

Since Europe is the cradle of the compact car, Toyota Motor Europe has been given a leading role in defining future A- and B- and C-segment cars

Toyota Motor Europe has also become Toyota's skill centre in the 3 areas that identify the specific nature of the European market: the importance of the diesel engine, the customer expectations for perceived quality and their demands for vehicle dynamics.

This specialisation is achieved through the increased collaboration with European suppliers, the work carried out with leading European universities on advanced research and through the local alliances, such as the agreement signed with BMW for diesel engines.

In the end, the fruits of this better understanding of the European market will be shared worldwide and will help to develop the Toyota product on a global scale.

All of these new responsibilities fall specifically to the Product Planning Department, the Research and Development Centre at Zaventem (near Brussels) and the European Design Development Centre (EDD) based in the south of France, all three of which already have to their credit the restyled versions of the Avensis in 2012, the Verso in 2013, the Verso 1.6 D-4D at the beginning of 2014 and now the new Yaris.

Yaris 2014, the product of regionalisation

The flagship product of Toyota's European range, the Yaris has benefited for its restyling from a particularly large investment (85 million euros). 576,000 hours of RandD have been dedicated to it, more than 1,000 new parts have been designed and Toyota Motor Europe contributed 75% towards its creation, a figure to be compared to the 25% European contribution invested at the model's launch in 2011.

Building on the features that have made the model a success since its launch, particularly the unique character of what it has to offer — the hybrid powertrain which makes up for almost 1 in 3 sales, the multimedia equipment or the rear camera - the Product Planning Department team has worked to strengthen the qualities and character of the 2014 Yaris.

An analysis of the press coverage and surveys conducted among buyers - and non-buyers - have provided in-depth insight into what the restyling initiative should bring. Comments unanimously converged on the need to add an emotive and dynamic dimension to a model of which the functional features were already much appreciated.

As the research reconfirmed that the key purchase reason in the European B-segment is appearance, both design and sensory quality need to be just right.

As these results were corroborated by an analysis of market trends, the Product Planning Department team were able to produce a clear brief to EDD designers and RandD engineers. Afterwards, these three entities continued to work in close collaboration, refining their approach at each step of the project.

From the design point of view, the instructions from the Product Planning Department clearly highlighted the need to affirm the character of the Yaris, an initiative that had already been embarked upon with the launch of the Hybrid version in 2012.

For their part, the engineers at the Research and Development Centre at Zaventem produced specifications for necessary technical modifications, after having conducted in-depth investigations on the Yaris 2011 into comfort, performance and sound insulation.

In order to meet these targets, they had to develop a new torsion beam and modify parts of the platform itself in order to achieve the required levels of performance for noise and vibration. Such extensive development was a first for the European RandD Centre, which from then on decided to add an early prototype stage in order to validate the modifications at an earlier timing, while the normal prototype stages allowed final adjustments to be refined and more detailed studies to be conducted on the impact of these modifications on the car's general performance.

Geographical closeness meant, for all of the project stakeholders, product managers, designers and engineers, as well as the representatives of suppliers of parts, that frequent meetings could be held. This much facilitated final adjustments and it sped up the decision making process.

"What makes this project different from other projects that we have done, " says Serkan Karaman, Senior Project Manager at the Zaventem's RandD Centre, "is that the scale of the development content compared to a typical face lift was much larger and we were able to take the lead in Europe for a global vehicle of which the content was adopted for other regions such as Japan and USA. In the past, the project management was mostly done in Japan. They decided the schedule and they assigned specific tasks to the team in Europe. But this time, we were in the driver seat. We had the freedom to decide what to do, when to do it and how to go about it. As a result, the new Yaris really incorporates European know how and European taste. And as far as our operations are concerned, it has added invaluable experience to the team."

YARIS: MADE IN FRANCE BY EUROPEAN ENGINEERS FOR EUROPEAN CUSTOMERS

• More assertive styling
• Sensory quality upgrade in a new interior

For Alessandro Massimino, Product Manager in Brussels, the aim was clear: «Current Yaris already meets essential requirements of B-segment buyers: its compactness relative to its roominess, its functional aspects and innovative equipment, particularly its multimedia system and rear camera. Our surveys and the very positive response to the hybrid version convinced us that we now had to move towards a more assertive style and increase the general dynamism of the car, both in terms of design and driving pleasure. Using this as our goal, we have been able to work closely with the Design Centre and the Research and Development Division to create the new Yaris».

Exterior Design

Elvio D'Aprile, in charge of the 2014 Yaris design said: "The B-segment is perhaps the most competitive segment in Europe. We had to do something which really stands out from the crowd. So our objectives were to avoid the B-segment stereotypes, to harmonize overall style of all powertrain derivatives and to dare to be different from competition".

Consequently, the highly distinctive exterior of the new, 2014 Yaris features an even stronger, more dynamic execution of Toyota's bold, Under Priority frontal design language with Keen Look detailing.

The narrow upper- and large, trapezoidal lower grilles which hallmark Toyota's Under Priority design now merge at the logo to form a powerful cross-shaped structure.

The logo is underscored by a chrome trim bar which runs through the length of the upper grille into new, Keen Look headlamp clusters, tying the frontal elements together with a powerful, horizontal emphasis of vehicle width.

The headlamp clusters themselves incorporate new projector lamp technology for both high and low beams, and LED daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Underlined by a 'floating' spoiler which further strengthens its dominance of the Under Priority design language, the large, trapezoidal lower grille focuses attention on the bottom of the new Yaris, reinforcing the dynamic potential of its ground-hugging stance and low centre of gravity.

In profile, the new Yaris benefits from a new door belt moulding, optional, electrically-folding door mirrors and a choice of four new, 15» and 16» alloy wheels.

To the rear, a new bumper design gives the appearance of a broader, lower stance, whilst the integral diffuser strengthens the new Yaris' road presence with a more sporting, self-confident image.

Flanking the sculpted license plate garnish, upgraded rear lamp clusters incorporate a new, LED light graphic which further enhances the vehicle's personality with a unique lighting signature made possible by using light-guide technology.

Unlike the previous generation Yaris, all powertrain derivatives now share the same overall styling, with more subtle cues alone identifying different versions, including the Yaris Hybrid.

Elvio D'Aprile adds: "The fact that this project was entirely managed from Europe helped the final design enormously. On a daily basis, we could discuss with Engineering and Product Planning. Design elements that would normally have been rejected because they were incompatible with some pre-conception about technical specifications, suddenly became negotiable. As a result, we were able to really carry our vision from the first proposals through to the final car."

Interior Design

Pierre Romeo, in charge of the new interior design of the 2014 Yaris, said: "The new interior design is the result of three key, customer feedback-informed objectives: firstly, to enhance the feeling of roominess and dynamism in the cabin secondly, to improve the sensory quality of the environment and, thirdly, to combine overall visual simplification with improved colour variation and more sophisticated finishes."

Creating a more horizontal feel to the dashboard, the upper instrument panel is now thinner, and the upper surface of the driver's instrument binnacle has been restyled for a slimmer look. In conjunction, the door panel has also been redesigned to combine a more fluid, dynamic appearance with a larger soft-touch area and greater functionality.

The centre console has been raised by 23mm to reduce the length of the gear shift lever by 30mm for improved gear changing ergonomics, and a closed storage area has been added. Now featuring the latest, Toyota Touch 2 multimedia systems, the console touch screen has been increased in size from 6.1» to 7». This visually emphasises one of the Yaris' unique features.

The upper instrument panel finish has been changed from Technical to Animal grain for improved tactility and a less glossy appearance, and is complimented by a thicker ornamentation band.

Improving both its appearance and tactility, the Yaris-trademark, sculpted central dashboard panel features an increase in soft-padding thickness and a surface material change to PVC. The graining differs from grade to grade — Animal, Technical or Geometrical — contributing to the different characters that are now part of the line-up.

The area of soft touch finishes has been increased within the cabin. Throughout, normal chrome trim has been replaced by a satin chrome, giving a more modern, sophisticated appearance.

The new, 2014 Yaris further benefits from a range of all-new seat trims, with a new fabric pattern and colour for each grade. Grade differentiation is further strengthened by an increased number of interior colour schemes Red, Tan and Black finishes now complement the existing Grey/Dark Grey interior.

DRIVING PLEASURE

• Improved handling and comfort
• New torsion beam
• Shock absorbers and steering modified

The new, 2014 Yaris features comprehensive, customer feedback-driven improvements to its ride comfort and handling with a significant reduction in Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH). Serkan Karaman, Senior Project Manager at TME RandD said: «For the first time in the history of the Research and Development Division in Europe, we have taken the initiative and made important changes to the platform with regard to vehicle dynamics that go way beyond the boundaries of a facelift».

Improved Ride Comfort and Handling

The new Yaris has been designed with a more rigid upper and lower body structure, offering a more direct and linear response to steering inputs, allowing a more comfortable ride whilst maintaining balanced body control.

Frontal rigidity has been increased through the adoption of a new windscreen bonding material and a thicker dashboard bulkhead structure. Both the instrument panel beam and its connections to the dashboard and central tunnel have been stiffened in order to improve steering response.

Central and rear body rigidity have been increased through the use of 36 additional welding spots, redesigned tunnel bracing to add rigidity to the vehicle floor, a redesigned wheelhouse area, and reinforced rear bumper attachment to reduce body roll deformation.

The rear suspension has been redesigned to incorporate a new, stiffer torsion beam combined with softer coil springs and a new long polyurethane bound stopper. This improves ride comfort whilst maintaining good body roll control, and also enhances the front/rear grip balance of the vehicle, to reduce understeer tendencies.

The front suspension also features softer coil springs for greater ride comfort. Simultaneously, the introduction of rebound springs within the shock absorbers increases front anti-roll stiffness, improving handling and reducing body roll during cornering.

In addition, new front and rear shock absorber valve technology reduces the transmission of vibrations from the road surface and further improves the new Yaris' ride quality without compromising its handling agility.

Finally, new control logic to the electric power steering system takes advantage of these bodyshell stiffness and suspension enhancements to offer customers significantly improved steering feel, responsiveness and accuracy for a more engaging driving experience.

Reduced Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH)

Complementing the reduction in unwanted vibration through increased body stiffness and suspension re-tuning, the new, 2014 Yaris also benefits from a marked reduction in interior noise levels.

Based on customer feedback, Toyota engineers identified three noise-reduction priorities. Firstly, the reduction of high frequency noise from the engine and the road surface. Secondly, the reduction of low frequency noise from the engine. And, thirdly, the reduction of wind noise during high speed driving.

To minimise the penetration of high frequency noise through the dashboard bulkhead and vehicle floor, the dashboard silencer has been completely re-engineered, the instrument panel and console box sound absorption material has been upgraded, and a noise-optimised carpet was introduced.

The dashboard silencer surface area has been maximised by reducing the size of all feed-through apertures, and its thickness increased and material composition optimised for better sound insulation. A similar principle has been applied to the instrument panel and console box cavities, which now incorporate double the quantity of sound-absorbing material.

These measures improve cabin sound performance both during acceleration and whilst driving at a constant speed.

Low frequency engine booming has been minimised by the adoption of a newly-designed engine torque rod (for 1.4 diesel models), and the redesign and relocation of the exhaust system hangers.

The intrusion of wind noise at high speed has been reduced by the adoption of a new, spoiler-shaped cowl louvre which reduces turbulence air at the base of the windscreen, a new door weather strip design which improves sealing, most notably around the door mirror area, and double the quantity of sound absorption material in the door cavity.

In combination, these measures will significantly reduce noise within the cabin, improving occupant comfort under all driving conditions.

POWERTRAINS

• New 3 cylinder 1.0 engine with outstanding thermal efficiency
• Hybrid powertrain improved to further reduce fuel consumption

Efficiency and performance

The 2014 Yaris range offers 4 powertrains, two petrol, one diesel and one hybrid. The latter, which already accounts for a third of this model's sales, was adapted to comply with the Euro 6 Standard and has benefited from adjustments that have now made its C0₂ emissions even lower, 75 g/km as opposed to 79. Extremely economical (less than 3.3l/100) and clean (virtually zero nitrous oxide and particulate emissions), this powertrain offers unique qualities within the B-segment. The hybrid Yaris stands out for its silent running, comfort and easy handling, particularly in urban areas where the hybrid system allows the car to run solely in electric mode or with a limited - and therefore silent - use of the combustion engine. The automatic transmission ensures a smooth drive without any jerkiness, giving a comfortable and reassuring driving experience, both for the driver and his passengers.

The 1.33 petrol and 1.4 diesel engines have benefited from secondary modifications aimed at reducing noise and vibration: firstly, by fitting a torque rod and secondly, by providing better insulation for the exhaust system.

As for the 3-cylinder 1.0 petrol engine, it has undergone a major revamp with a view to improving its performance, reducing its emissions and its noise and vibration levels. In compliance with the Euro 6 Standard, it achieves a level of thermal efficiency - the part of the energy contained in the fuel, which is converted into mechanical energy - of over 37%, which is an excellent result among mass-produced petrol engines that on average have a thermal efficiency of between 30 and 35%. The CO₂ emissions of the 1.0 version have thus been reduced from 110 to 99 g/km and achieve 95 g/km with the Stop & Start system.

To achieve this, engineers have sought above all to optimise the weight/power ratio. From this aspect, the combination of the cylinder and the exhaust manifold head has reduced weight and improved compactness.

In order to reduce consumption while still maintaining performance, the compression ratio has been increased to 11.5:1, the intake ports and pistons have been redesigned to increase the tumble effect (vertical swirl in the combustion chamber) and piston cooling has been increased to delay knocking. Recirculation of the exhaust gas has been increased to promote combustion speed and reduce pumping losses, while the EGR valve now operates in conjunction with the VVT-i distribution system, the latter having also been adapted to suit the engine's new characteristics.

Lastly, the level of the friction has been reduced by altering the valve actuator materials, the treatment of the surface of the pistons, the drive of the timing chain and the shape of the oil sump to ensure that the engine gets up to temperature quicker.

YARIS SUCCESS BOOSTED BY HYBRID TECHNOLOGY

• European Hybrid market is steadily growing
• Uniquely smooth, quiet and entirely intuitive driving experience
• 6 out of 10 Toyota hybrid customers represent a conquest sale

Europe is the world's fastest growing hybrid market. Sales increased by 34% in 2013, with the region accounting for 12% of total global hybrid sales.

Over the same period, European sales of Toyota hybrids have risen by some 43%, and 1 in 5 of all Toyota passenger vehicles sold is now a hybrid.

With the universal recognition of hybrid technology as a mainstream powertrain resulting in increasingly strong residual values, the Yaris Hybrid is now afforded equal consideration to petrol and diesel alternatives by potential B-segment customers.

Prior to its launch two years ago, it was inconceivable that a B-segment model with a hybrid powertrain could achieve sales of almost 50,000 units per annum. But the Yaris Hybrid sold 49,774 units in 2013 -making a total of 74,507 sales since its launch in 2012- and is on track to top the 100,000 mark after just two years on the market.

This year, to date, the Yaris Hybrid has accounted for 31% of total Yaris sales in Western Europe. It is the best-selling alternative powertrain in the B-segment, and the second-best-selling car in the entire European alternative powertrain market (EV, Hybrid, PHV and FCV) just behind the Toyota Auris Hybrid.

Despite the fact that over two thirds of Europeans live in cities (a figure due to increase a further 10% by 2050), 74% of them still travel by car, with the resultant congestion and pollution constituting an ever growing issue.

The Yaris Hybrid's combination of compact, agility-enhancing dimensions and the most efficient powertrain in the B-segment represents the ideal antidote to the stress and frustration of urban driving.

Toyota's hybrid powertrain offers customers a uniquely smooth, quiet and entirely intuitive driving experience. It delivers strong, seamless acceleration from a standstill and, under electric motor power alone, near-silent running with zero CO₂, NOx and particulate emissions.

Through these attributes, all Toyota hybrids not only generate significantly stronger brand loyalty than petrol or diesel powertrains, but also consistently instil greater loyalty to hybrid powertrains themselves than any other manufacturer.

Moreover, the company's hybrid technology plays a dominant part in attracting new customers to the brand, with 6 out of 10 Toyota hybrid customers representing a conquest sale.

With rival hybrids only now entering diverse market segments, Toyota's early investment in this technology has enabled it to sustain a clear lead in alternative powertrain technology. And it anticipates that, by 2020, 15% of all passenger vehicles will be equipped with a hybrid powertrain.

GRADES

• Differentiation strategy to suit the widened range of B-segment customers
• Each grade with its own, unique character
• Grade specific interior colour schemes

The new, 2014 Yaris is growing its appeal thanks to a line-up that features outspoken and clearly differentiated grades, to match the widened customer base of the B-segment.

This differentiation will be reinforced through grade-specific interior colour schemes, and varying treatments to numerous exterior and interior elements, including the lower grille, alloy wheels, seats, centre console, instrument panel, and steering wheel inserts.

For instance, diverse treatments of the lower grille (unpainted, metallic back or piano black) and the grille surround inserts (chrome, satin chrome or piano black) will identify the different model grades. The Yaris Hybrid will feature a piano black grille with satin chrome surround, reflecting its high-tech credentials.

High equipment levels feature throughout the grade structure, with a leather steering wheel, air-conditioning and the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system fitted as standard from Active grade.

A comprehensive options list includes projector headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), a range of 15» and 16» alloy wheels, a rear parking monitor, auto-folding door mirrors, cruise control, dual zone air-conditioning, rear electric windows, rain and light sensors, wireless door lock and start button, Alcantara^® or leather seats and rear privacy glass.

The 2.5-millionth Yaris will be delivered to a customer of Toyota's Marseille, France retailer in the next few weeks.

The sales success of Yaris and Yaris Hybrid led TMMF to plan a 15% increase in production for 2014 and introduce a third production shift from June onward. TMMF will then be producing 1,100 Yaris per day versus 840 today. The plan for 2014 calendar year is to produce around 220,000 Yaris, including around 25,000 for export to North America.

The three-shift organisation requires recruiting an additional 500 production members, bringing employment at the Valenciennes plant to more than 4,000. Since recruitment started three months ago, more than 9,000 candidates have applied for jobs at the plant and more than 300 have already joined the initial four-week training. The training leads to a formal qualification certificate under the French professional qualification system.

The plant will start operating on three shifts as of June 16, 2014, which is the timing of the start of production of the restyled Yaris unveiled earlier this week. Both the exterior and the interior of Yaris have been significantly renewed, positioning the car amongst the strongest contenders in the highly competitive B-segment once more.

More information: http://newsroom.toyota.eu/pressrelease/3886//new-yaris-adds-style-content

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 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."

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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 10^th 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."

The hybrid powertrain has been optimised for installation within the vehicle's compact, extremely efficient packaging, without detriment to either system quality and performance, or passenger accommodation and loadspace. The downsized hybrid system combines a 1.5 litre petrol engine with a light, compact electric motor, transaxle, inverter and battery pack.

It delivers an average fuel consumption of just 3.5 l/100 km and segment-best CO₂ emissions of only 79 g/km, whilst allowing customers frequent electric driving mode that emits zero NOx, PM or CO₂ emissions.

With a best in segment 3.1 l/100 km in the urban cycle, the Yaris Hybrid represents the ideal choice for urban mobility.

It combines the tangible benefits of advanced technology, low emissions and unbeatable cost of ownership with a uniquely relaxed and quiet driving style. Its full hybrid system proves that driving pleasure need not be compromised by environmental responsibility and low running costs. With traditionally high residual values, Toyota hybrids also represent a great return on investment after a few years.

With Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK (TMUK) already assembling Auris Hybrid and Auris Hybrid Touring Sports, the Yaris Hybrid production at Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF) makes Toyota the only manufacturer to have two full hybrid technology production facilities in Europe.