Now that the B segment has been set ablaze with newcomers like the Ford Fiesta and Mazda2, it’s time for automakers to freshen up their small car offerings, as well. Honda revamped the Fit for 2009, there’s a brand new Chevrolet Aveo on the way, and we’re now seeing spy shots of the next-generation Toyota Yaris.
The Yaris is undergoing what appears to be a pretty substantial makeover, ditching its cute, bubbly image in favor of something much more aggressive. We have a pretty good idea of what to expect in terms of design, especially since this prototype looks a lot like a leaked image we stumbled upon last month. Our spies report that the new Yaris will be about four inches longer than the current car, and that two of those inches are found in between the front and rear axles, allowing for slightly more interior room.
We’re willing to bet that the Yaris’ current powertrain will make its way into the new car, possibly with some slight updates. Don’t rule out the possibility of a Yaris-based hybrid, too.
The new Yaris will launch sometime next year, with early reports stating that we could see a concept (or “show car”) at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. For now, see the Yaris prototype from all angles in our image gallery below.
