Adjustments to the drivetrain mean the Yaris Hybrid, which accounts for more than a quarter of Yaris sales in the UK, will offer CO2 emissions of 75g/km and fuel economy in excess of 85.6mpg – compared to the 79g/km and 80.7mpg of the outgoing car.

The upgrades form part of a substantial mid-life refresh, largely carried out by Toyota’s European product planning, research and development and design departments, which will be adapted for other global markets.

This increased involvement means Toyota Motor Europe’s investment share has risen from 25% in the third-generation model launched in 2011, to 75% of this refreshed version. Extending the Hybrid's traditionally more aggressive styling across the range brings the Yaris in line with the Verso MPV, which received a similar facelift last year exclusively for the European market.

Reductions in CO2 emissions, fuel consumption and NVH are paired with a stiffer bodyshell and alterations to the suspension aimed at improving ride quality and handling. Equipment and colour choices have also been increased, while the interior materials have been improved for the new car.

UK pricing and specification for the new Yaris will be announced this summer.