Toyota_Yaris_facelift_Europe

Before anyone asks, no, this is not the Malaysian 2014 Toyota Yaris. What this is, is the updated European-market Toyota Yaris and JDM Vitz, which you could call the real Yaris next to the Vios-based hatchback we have here. For those two markets, Toyota has enhanced its B-segmenter with changes both inside and out.

The new face follows that of the new Aygo citycar, with a distinctive cross pattern that is centred around the logo. Like it or not, this look is here to stay, it seems. Round the back, the lights now have new LED-infused graphics and restyled bumper to keep the five-door hatchback looking fresh.

Inside, Toyota adhered to customer feedback and improved three key areas: feeling of roominess, perceived quality levels plus colours and equipment choices. Also new is the suspension, which has been revised to offer better comfort and handling. Sound insulation has been bumped up as well.

Europe continues to get the existing range of petrol (1.0 and 1.3 litre VVT-i units), diesel (1.4 litre D-4D) and hybrid (1.5 litre with Hybrid Synergy Drive) variants.

The JDM Vitz however, gets the brand new 1.3 litre VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Electric) motor. This one makes use of a high compression ratio (13.5:1), cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and automatic idling stop to use around 15% less fuel than before. Maximum thermal efficiency for the unit is 38%, which is extremely high for a conventional petrol engine.

Positioned above the updated Passo in Japan, the Vitz also gets the standard JDM fare of a choice of two standard looks, various exterior and interior colour combinations and of course, wild bodykit options (in this case an official Toyota G Sports package).

JDM Toyota Vitz facelift