Fresh patent images from Argentina appear to suggest the XP150-generation Toyota Yaris offered in South Africa is in line for a Corolla-inspired facelift.
First published by Parabrisas, the images were submitted to Argentina’s national institute of industrial property at the start of February 2020.
The document suggests this version of the Yaris (which is, of course, an entirely different animal to the Yaris offered in Europe) will gain a refreshed front end featuring LED headlamps and a new lower air intake, bring it neatly in line with the latest Corolla. There are also new foglamp arrangements up front. From what we can tell, no significant changes will be made round back.
Back in February 2018, Toyota South Africa Motors switched from the Euro-spec Yaris to the larger, Asian-spec model (which is also offered in parts of South America). The local range currently comprises five variants, each powered by a naturally aspirated 1,5-litre petrol engine worth 79 kW and 140 N.m.
The XP150 Yaris has been in production since 2013, with its first facelift having been applied late in 2017, just before its arrival in South Africa.
Interestingly, the new GR Yaris hot hatch (which is, of course, a three-door variant based on the European model) is destined for local shores, with Toyota hoping to launch it in 2021.
