2012 Toyota Yaris / Vitz Mini Site Launched in Japan, but Leaked Brochure Shots Reveal All

Toyota is getting ready to present a new generation of its Japanese domestic market Vitz supermini, which we will come to know (with a few changes here and there) as the 2012 Yaris.

For this reason, Toyota launched a mini site teasing the new car through some cropped images and text, which unfortunately, is in Japanese - any help with the translation would be appreciated. From what we understand, the new Vitz / Yaris will either be unveiled or is planned to go on sale in Japan, in December.

The teaser shots on the site match the leaked brochure images of the JDM car that have been making the internet rounds these past few days. The catalog pictures reveal a more aggressive and edgier styling language for the new Yaris, while we also learn that the car is 100mm longer in total length and 20 mm shorter in height, compared to the current model. It also gets a 50mm stretch in wheelbase, which should improve interior space.

We'll keep an eye out for any new information and pass it on as it comes.

Link: Toyota Mini Site , Brochure Shots: Minkara & Lo Vitz

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Malignant Rumors: Toyota set to build Yaris / Vitz hybrid in Europe next year

Now that hybrid tech is becoming more widespread, Toyota is looking to push its gas-electric offerings down a notch after the not-too-well-received Sai-based Lexus HS. According to Reuters, Toyota ain't scurred of the hit it has recently taken to its hybrid sales and is readying a European-market Yaris (Vitz in Japan) hybrid that will be manufactured in Valenciennes, France next year.

With Honda set to debut its Jazz / Fit hybrid in Paris, Toyota thinks a Yaris hybrid may be able to help get more Europeans on its own hybrid bandwagon. Clearly hybrids are still a good way promote backing off of oil dependency, but Toyota has a couple hurdles to clear before success is in the cards.

First, hybrids have not been a huge hit in Europe, a market that traditionally prefers diesel engines, and second, Toyota needs to continue to improve its image after the recalls it has been enduring.

If a Yaris hybrid officially gets a green light, we could see a concept /prototype / teaser as early as Paris or possibly early next year. We'll let you know more as soon as we know more.

By Phil Alex

Source: Reuters

*Regular European market Toyota Yaris shown in photos