Toyota is updating the Yaris Hybrid in Japan with new tech and likely price increases, suggesting similar changes may come to Australia. The updates, reported by Creative Trend, include a standard 10.5-inch touchscreen – already available in European models but currently an 8.0-inch screen in Australian Yarises.
Tech and Feature Upgrades
The Japanese Yaris Hybrid will also gain an electronic parking brake with automatic hill-hold assist, replacing the traditional handbrake found in current Australian models. While Toyota Australia hasn’t confirmed changes, the last local update in May 2025 focused on safety improvements.
The powertrain remains unchanged: a 1.5-liter three-cylinder hybrid delivering 85kW and 141Nm, with a claimed 3.3L/100km fuel consumption. However, Japanese pricing will increase by ¥200,000–¥300,000 (roughly $1,875–$2,813 AUD).
Market Trends and Australian Implications
Toyota’s shift towards hybrid-only models is a key trend. In 2024, Australia saw the Yaris (except for the GR performance version) and other popular models like the RAV4 become exclusively hybrid. This aligns with broader industry changes.
The Yaris Hybrid range in Australia starts at $28,990 (before on-road costs), with higher trims reaching $34,590. The Japanese updates also include new exterior colors (Mustard) and the removal of Coral Crystal Shine. Black mirror caps, already standard on some Australian models, will also be added in Japan.
Sales Performance and Competition
Despite a 23.8% sales increase in 2025, the Yaris remains a low-volume seller for Toyota Australia (2,810 units). It lags behind rivals like the MG 3 (8,350 sales), Mazda 2 (4,346), and Suzuki Swift (3,446). Overall, city-sized hatchback sales are declining, while the Yaris Cross SUV spin-off outsells the hatchback nearly four to one (10,928 sales).
The Yaris Hybrid’s Japanese refresh suggests Toyota is prioritizing updated features and potentially higher pricing in key markets, including Australia. The company’s commitment to hybrid technology suggests further electrification of its model range is likely.
