Toyota Motor Thailand is preparing to introduce a significant update to its popular compact sedan lineup with the launch of the Toyota Yaris ATIV Hybrid, expected to debut in August 2025. Known in Malaysia as the Toyota Vios, this new hybrid variant will bring electrified performance to the model for the first time, marking a notable evolution for the nameplate.
According to AutolifeThailand, the hybrid Yaris ATIV will feature Toyota’s 1.5-litre full hybrid powertrain, likely inherited from the Yaris Cross. Although the core mechanicals are expected to remain similar, there could be minor technical adjustments specific to the sedan platform. This system is comprised of a 1.5-litre four-cylinder DOHC petrol engine, coded 2NR-VEX, which displaces 1,496 cc. It produces 91hp at 5,500 rpm and 121Nm of torque between 4,000 and 4,800 rpm.
Mated to this internal combustion unit is an electric motor generating 80hp and 141Nm of torque, culminating in a combined output of 111hp. The hybrid system is paired with an e-CVT automatic transmission and draws energy from a 0.7 kWh lithium-ion battery. The drivetrain powers the front wheels and is compatible with E20 ethanol fuel. Factory data suggests the vehicle will reach a top speed of 160km/h and deliver an impressive fuel economy of 26.3 km/litre.
Toyota aims to equip the Yaris ATIV Hybrid with a full suite of modern features, offering an upmarket experience compared to its petrol-only sibling. The cabin will likely receive a 64-colour ambient lighting system, an electric parking brake with Auto Brake Hold, a smart keyless entry system, and a push-start ignition. Comfort features such as automatic climate control, rear air vents, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected to be standard.
Safety and driver assistance technologies will be a major highlight of the new model. The hybrid sedan is expected to offer Toyota Safety Sense, which includes a pre-collision system with autonomous braking, lane departure warning with steering assistance, front departure alert, and pedal misoperation control. Additional features are likely to include adaptive cruise control with full stop-and-go capability, a blind spot monitoring system integrated into the side mirrors, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beam assist, and a 360-degree camera system.
Introducing the Vios Hybrid would allow Toyota Malaysia to compete more effectively with hybrid offerings from other brands, especially in an era where electrified powertrains are becoming a key purchase consideration. It would also serve as a stepping stone toward Toyota’s broader electrification goals for the region.
could signal a major shift for the Malaysian B-segment sedan market, particularly with its likely introduction as the hybrid version of the Toyota Vios. Currently, Malaysians have access to the fourth-generation Vios in only two petrol variants—1.5E and 1.5G—a noticeable reduction from the previous lineup that included the base J and sportier GR-S variants.
