Toyota’s mid‑size sedan, the Yaris, is getting ready for a grand re‑entrance with an updated look and expanded range. Though officially discontinued in India in 2021, whispers of a revamped Yaris hitting showrooms again—possibly by late 2022 or early 2023—have caught everyone’s attention
Why This Matters Now
The Yaris originally arrived in India in 2018 and carved a niche with its premium build, refined engine, and well-appointed cabin. While it didn’t break segment records, its return would shake up competition with the Maruti Ciaz, Honda City, and Hyundai Verna—especially with updated style, tech, and safety.
What’s New: Design & Style Refresh
- Lexus‑inspired Grille & Redesigned Headlamps: Spy shots show a bolder fascia with an angular, upscale grille and sharper lighting setup.
- Dual‑tone Paint & Black Accents: Introducing a segment-first dual‑tone finish (roof and pillars in black) with gloss-black ORVMs and diamond-cut alloys, elevating its road presence.
- Subtle Cabin Updates: Interiors likely keep the clean layout, but with improved upholstery, a refreshed touchscreen, and possibly more premium touches.
Full Variant Lineup & Pricing (Pre‑Launch Projection)
Below is a presumed variant stack, based on earlier trims, refreshed low/high‑end additions, and the rumored facelift timeline:
| Variant | Transmission | Estimated Ex‑Showroom |
|---|---|---|
| J MT (Entry) | 6‑speed Manual | ₹10.00 Lakh |
| J MT Optional | 6‑speed Manual | ₹10.22 Lakh |
| J CVT | 7‑step CVT | ₹11.98 Lakh |
| J CVT Optional | 7‑step CVT | ₹10.99 Lakh |
| G MT Optional | 6‑speed Manual | ₹11.03 Lakh |
| G MT | 6‑speed Manual | ₹11.95 Lakh |
| G CVT Optional | 7‑step CVT | ₹12.86 Lakh |
| G CVT | 7‑step CVT | ₹13.15 Lakh |
| V MT Optional (Dual‑Tone) | 6‑speed Manual | ₹12.39 Lakh |
| V CVT Optional (Dual‑Tone) | 7‑step CVT | ₹13.59 Lakh |
| VX CVT (Top) | 7‑step CVT | ₹14.60 Lakh |
These variations build on the facelifted 2019 lineup: J ▶ G ▶ V ▶ VX—with “Optional” trims offering fewer airbags (3 vs 7) and distinctive accessories, and the V Optional introducing dual‑tone aesthetics.
Engine & Powertrain: Unchanged and Trusty
The powertrain remains familiar yet polished:
- Engine: 1.5 L Dual VVT‑i petrol (2NR‑FE)
- Output: ~106 bhp @6,000 rpm
- Torque: 140 Nm @4,200 rpm
- Transmission:
- 6‑speed manual or 7‑step CVT
- Fuel Efficiency:
- Manual: ~17.1 kmpl
- CVT: ~17.8 kmpl (ARAI claimed)
- Fuel Tank: 42 L
- Drive Layout: Front‑wheel drive
Given its balance of performance (105–106 bhp) and commendable mileage, it’s a smart choice for urban and highway driving
Dimensions & Packaging
Size and comfort have always been Yaris strengths:
- Exterior:
- Length: 4,425 mm
- Width: 1,730 mm
- Height (~1,495 mm)
- Wheelbase: 2,550 mm
- Weight: Approx. 1,095–1,110 kg (kerb)
- Interior Space:
- Seating for 5, with roof‑mounted rear AC vents—tested well on comfort
- Boot: 476 L—competitive cargo room
A wide-built platform gives the cabin a roomy feel; however, the wheelbase remains close to rivals—and even 100 mm shorter than the Ciaz
Key Features by Variant
Standard (J / G Base)
- Features:
- Touchscreen infotainment (likely 7″)
- Android Auto / Apple CarPlay (in select trims)
- Automatic climate control, 12 V outlets
- Safety: 3 airbags (driver, passenger, knee), front parking sensors
Mid‑Range (G / V)
- Added:
- 7 airbags, tyre‑pressure monitor, reverse camera, vehicle stability control, hill‑assist, rear disc brakes
- Alloy wheels from G trim upwards; roof AC vents, ambient rear lighting
- Gesture‑control infotainment (allowed in V+ trims)
Top Trim (VX CVT)
- Premium features:
- Dual-tone exterior, leather/leatherette seats, cruise control
- LED daytime running lights, projector halogens
- 7” touchscreen with full connectivity & gesture control
- Full safety suite: 7 airbags
Notable Enhancements in the Refresh
- Bold Exterior Styling: The new Lexus-inspired grille and dual-tone paintoption bring visual freshness.
- Feature Redistribution: Features like leatherette upholstery and upgraded infotainment trickle down to lower variants (V Optional), making the Yaris more value-rich across trims.
- Standard Safety Additions: Vendor-wide safety essentials like reverse sensors, stability control, and seatbelt reminders now come standard.
What Growth and Buyers Can Expect
- Improved Appeal: The refined looks and fresher technology stack set it apart from Honda City and competitors, especially for buyers craving a premium feel.
- Focused Differentiators: The Yaris’s hallmark—comfort, quiet cabin, and strong build—remains intact. Added flair and safety help its proposition.
- Broader Market Fit: Dual-tone and optional trims allow customization, addressing both buyers looking for budget and those wanting premium touches.
- Segment Competition: With mid-trim prices hovering between ₹10–14 L, expect a strong challenge to premium mid-size sedans.
What’s Still on Wish‑List
- Infotainment Upgrade: Bluetooth, Android Auto/CarPlay, possibly even Wi-Fi hotspot—these must be up-to‑date to beat rivals
- Sunroof Option: With segment rivals offering panoramic sunroofs, the Yaris could further enhance its appeal.
- Hybrid or Diesel Option: Though not teased yet, hybrid tech might fit with Toyota’s broader electrification push—worth watching.
Final Verdict
The new Yaris—”Style Meets Substance”—stands poised to reconfigure expectations in its class. It already offered a solid base with its refined 1.5 L engine, high build quality, spacious cabin, and comfort-centric features. Now, it’s backing these strengths with sharper aesthetics, better feature distribution, and upgraded safety across trims.
If Toyota prices it smartly and integrates full smartphone connectivity and value-added trims, it could finally strike a chord with mainstream sedan buyers longing for Toyota reliability wrapped in contemporary style.
Bottom line: Toyota’s refreshed Yaris likely hits Indian roads by late 2022 or early 2023. With six core trims (plus dual‑tone options) and attractive pricing between ₹10–14.6 L ex-showroom, it’s ready to give rivals a run for their money. toyota-yaris-review-422492
📌 Want to Dig Deeper?
- Variants, prices, and official launch dates as they emerge? Just ask—I’ll help track and compare!
- Or if you’re curious about how the Yaris stacks against rivals like the City, Verna, or Ciaz—let me know, I’d love to dive into a direct comparison.
