As we anticipate the upcoming launch of the DNGA-based all-new Toyota Vios for Malaysia, it seems the Toyota Yaris is soldiering on with the outgoing platform, now with a new facelift that has debuted in Thailand. The front end has been given a drastic change that is reminiscent of an older-generation Prius.
Over in Thailand, the facelift Toyota Yaris is available in 4 trims, namely ‘Sport’, ‘Smart’, ‘Premium’, and ‘Premium S’. Prices start at THB 559,000 (approx. RM72k) and top off at THB 694,000 (approx. RM90k).
It is the fourth facelift for the Toyota Yaris, and as such the powertrain has remained the same. Despite the futuristic hybrid-like looks, the Thai-spec Yaris is still powered by the same 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine that makes 92 hp (metric) and 109 Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels only via the carried-over CVT.
The facelift Yaris signals that a DNGA-based all-new Yaris for the ASEAN market is not happening so soon. The front end now sports a new set of projector headlights, a nostril-like upper grille, and a large gaping lower grille that seems inspired by the brand’s GR models.
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Everything else on the exterior remains largely unchanged, save for a sportier-looking rear bumper and a new set of 15-inch wheels. Body colour options for the Thai-spec Yaris includes Spicy Scarlet, Platinum White Pearl and Red Mica Metallic. A new addition to the colour options is Cement Gray Metallic.
Inside, the Yaris now gets a new 9-inch touchscreen head unit that is available in the top-two variants. Other variants get either an 8-inch or a 7-inch unit. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity are only available on the 9-inch and 8-inch units. Also new in the Yarus are Type C USB sockets.
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Advanced safety features on the Thai-spec facelifted Toyota Yaris include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM). These are only available for the Premium and Premium S variants.
What are your thoughts on the new look of the Toyota Yaris? Let us know what you think in the comments…
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