Our European design studio took a leading role in defining the look of the significantly updated Yaris model we launched in 2014, as part of a co-ordinated responsibility for the project that also involved our Europe-based product planning and R&D operations.
The ED2 team’s vision was to make the car look more distinctive, inside and out, giving it a stronger emotional appeal. At the same time, they made sure that it didn’t lose any of its established strengths, such as its interior space, lasting quality and efficient performance. Certainly, the new-look Yaris had plenty of impact, with a new cross-shaped frontal treatment, slim LED headlights and redesigned bumpers. In the cabin, the emphasis was on comfort and driving pleasure, with new materials for the upholstery and trims that both looked and felt good.
Elvio D’Aprile, who led the exterior design programme at ED2 said: "We strived for something which stands out from the crowd, so our objectives were to avoid stereotypes, harmonise the overall style for all powertrain versions and dare to be different from the competition. The fact this project was managed entirely in Europe helped the final design enormously. We were able to hold daily discussions with engineering and product planning… As a result, we're able to carry our vision through from first proposals to the final car."
