Next-Generation Toyota Yaris Presented

Pictures of the next-generation Toyota Yaris have finally emerged, presenting a significantly revised model that comes with multiple improvements at almost every chapter. The Vitz, as it is called in Japan, will go on sale across Europe in the summer of 2011, but Toyota is yet to announce specific launch dates for countries on the Old Continent.

Autocar writes that the new Yaris has been specifically designed to be a more aggressive model, so exterior dimensions are slightly different. It is 100mm longer and 20mm lower, while the wheelbase has been increased by up to 50mm. It is also lighter by around 30 kilos, which contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency, while rear legroom has been enhanced by 35mm.

All engines to be offered across the range come with improved mileage, with the Yaris to be offered with two gasoline options, a 1.0-liter developing 68 horsepower and a 1.3-liter with 93 horsepower, with the latter employing start-stop function. A diesel and a hybrid version are likely to be offered as well, but only starting with 2012, Autocar wrote.

In Europe, the Yaris will be offered as standard with a five-speed manual transmission, but Toyota will equip the versions addressed to its domestic market with a CVT.

The interesting bit is that Toyota is also working on a sportier edition to wear the RS designation. It will be powered by a 1.5-liter powerplant that outputs 107 horsepower and customized with 16-inch alloy wheels, a more aggressive bumper and other design elements to improve the exterior look.

More details and pictures are expected to be released these days through an official press release issued by Toyota.