Toyota Yaris HSD Concept (2011)

Toyota Yaris HSD Concept

Making its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the Toyota Yaris HSD concept embodies what will be an important step in Toyota's full hybrid roll-out strategy in Europe.

Toyota aims to complete the application of full hybrid technology across its main models in Europe as early as possible in the 2020s. Following the successful introduction of the Auris HSD to the C‑segment in 2010, the Toyota Yaris HSD concept anticipates Toyota's intention to bring Hybrid Synergy Drive® to the B‑segment, the biggest volume segment in Europe.

The current growth of the B‑segment is just one facet of a perceptible shift in the public's requirements of the car industry. Customers are becoming less brand loyal. They are becoming less inclined towards a mainstream purchase, and more attracted to entry level, niche or premium models. They demonstrate receptiveness to new technology, increasingly in the context of the driving experience.

There is also a significant increase in the number of customers who quote engine type as their primary purchase consideration. Hybrid technology has achieved sufficient powertrain parity in the public perception that it is now a clear alternative to diesel or petrol engines.

The number of customers choosing hybrid drive for their next vehicle is increasing steadily, and has doubled in the last two years. This creates a gateway into the Toyota brand: hybrid intenders being three times more likely to consider a Toyota than conventional petrol and diesel customers.

Toyota's proven, Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology targets demanding urban customers who expect a new driving and ownership experience from their car. Combining low fuel consumption, emissions and cost of ownership with uniquely relaxed and quiet driving, HSD proves that driving pleasure need not be compromised by environmental responsibility and low running costs.

Amongst early Auris HSD customers, the majority quote relaxation, an engaging driving experience and the learning of new driving habits as the three most rewarding characteristics of their new cars.

Exterior Design - A New Design Direction for the Next Yaris Model Range

The Toyota Yaris HSD concept inherits all the clever DNA of the Yaris, offering B‑segment customers an ingenious combination of small, compact packaging and a spacious, practical interior, while introducing a new, more advanced and sophisticated style to the exterior design.

Flanked by highly contoured headlamps, the upper grille opening is shallow, helping the air flow smoothly over the upper half of the body. And the Toyota logo is fully integrated within the front lip of the bonnet, adding stylish articulation to its leading edge.

In profile, the Toyota Yaris HSD concept's sleek, monoform shape is emphasised by the long, sweeping roofline and a single, crisp character line which runs smoothly through the length of the vehicle. Short front and rear overhangs and a long wheelbase maximise passenger accommodation and loadspace on board.

Several hybrid-specific styling cues indentify the Toyota Yaris HSD concept as a Toyota full hybrid model derivative.

Air turbulence has been minimised by flat, vertical 'aero' corners housing front foglamps and matching rear reflectors, a large, integral rear spoiler, comprehensive underbody covers and 18" aero wheels featuring enlarged air gaps for improved cooling air flow. Even the door handles and rear side view cameras have been carefully designed to the most aero-efficient shape.