What's the news?

Toyota has announced that the 2014 Yaris and Yaris Hybrid models will both come with simpler and expanded trim level options. The existing T2 and TR specifications for the Yaris have been replaced by Active, Icon, Icon Plus and Trend; while the T3 and T4 designations for the Hybrid now come under Active, Icon Plus and Trend trim levels.

Exterior

In terms of visual pleasantries, the Yaris Active doesn't have many. The Hybrid version does get LED daytime running lamps, but you'll have to choose from Icon upwards if you want alloy wheels. Both Icon and Icon Plus get 15-inch designs, while top-spec Trend models get 16-inchers. Icon Plus steps things up by adding front fog lamps and LED rear light clusters to the standard equipment list; while Trend models get features such as rear privacy glass, chrome trim, a decal on the C-pillar and a rear boot spoiler.

Interior

For those wanting vehicular gadgetry in their 2014 Yaris, the Hybrid-powered version does appear to come up trumps across the range. For example, base-level Active versions of the petrol and diesel powered Yaris come with very little apart from aux-in and Bluetooth connectivity, whereas the Hybrid model also gets climate control as standard. The story is the same with the Icon Plus models, as well as the top-of-the-range Trend. Here, both models come with a Toyota Touch infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, an air conditioned glovebox and automatic lights and wipers; although the non-hybrid cars do without an auto dimming rear view mirror, half-leather interior and a reversing camera.

Mechanicals

Petrol engines are comprised of 1.0- and 1.33-litre versions of Toyota's VVT-i unit; while those wanting a diesel are limited to the 1.4-litre D-4D engine. The latter has been revised though, and now emits a road-tax-friendly 99g/km of CO₂; as well as using less fuel at 74.3mpg. Oddly, the biggest engine in the range is actually fitted to the Yaris Hybrid; where the 1.5-litre VVT-i powerplant finds itself hooked up to a CVT automatic transmission. The petrol and diesel engines have both five- and six-speed manual options, as well as a Multidrive S automatic gearbox.

Anything else?

Prices for the revised range start at £10,895 for a 1.0-litre Active model; and peak at a fairly hefty £17,495 for a Yaris Hybrid with the Trend trim level. Options packs that add both visual and equipment enhancements such as parking sensors, satellite navigation and keyless entry are also available across the range. The new model line-up is available now.