Toyota has taken the wraps off a sportier version of its Honda City rival, the Yaris Ativ TRD, at the ongoing 2018 Bangkok motor show. Typical of the Japanese brand’s models to wear the performance-focused badge, the mid-size sedan features various cosmetic changes. The body kit is also expected to be used on Singapore-spec TRD model (called the Vios there).

On the outside, the Yaris TRD sports dual-tone side skirts, the front spoiler and rear faux diffuser finished in red, and a redesigned front bumper that houses enlarged fog lamp surrounds. Red highlights are also visible on the outside rear-view mirrors while the boot spoiler is finished in black.

Besides the body kit, the model doesn’t get any TRD badges, special alloy wheels or any mechanical changes for that matter. The main differences between the Yaris Ativ and the Vios can be found in the cabin and under the hood. The former gets a 1.2-petrol litre engine, while the latter is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol and gets more premium interiors.

As we had reported earlier, the Japanese brand has begun taking bookings for the Yaris in India (incidentally, we get the Singapore-spec Vios). The India-spec model, which was also showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo, is powered by a 108hp, 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol engine and will be available with a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-step CVT automatic. No diesel engine is expected though a hybrid model is on the cards for a possible future launch.

Expected to rival the likes of the Hyundai Verna, Honda City and Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, the Yaris for India will be heavily localised; which means prices are likely to be competitive – in the region of Rs 8.4-13.5 lakh (ex-showroom). The top-spec variants are expected to come with segment-first features such as gesture control for the touchscreen infotainment system, a tyre pressure-monitoring system, 60:40 rear seat split, adjustable three-neck restraints for the rear seat, a roof-mounted rear air-con with ambient lighting, a powered driver’s seat and front parking sensors.

Considering Toyota had previously introduced TRD Sportivo versions of the Etios Liva hatchback, Etios sedan and the Fortuner SUV in India, it is possible that the carmaker will bring the body kit for its Yaris after the standard model arrives.

Do you think Toyota should bring the Yaris TRD to India? Let us know in the comments below