Toyota Kirloskar Motor has reportedly stopped the production of the Yaris compact sedan after a streak of low demand. It will be soon replaced by the rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, which is likely to be known as Toyota Belta. It is expected to be launched in August 2021. However, Toyota is yet to make an official statement regarding the matter.
Though Toyota Yaris was one of the safest cars in its class and having many segment-first features like 7-airbags, folding 60:40 rear split-seat, roof-mounted rear AC vents, and gesture control for the infotainment system, it struggled to keep up with its rivals since its launch in 2018. Also, it is relatively expensive than some of its core competitors like Maruti Ciaz (Rs 8.52-11.50 lakh), Skoda Rapid (Rs 7.79-13.29 lakh), and VW Vento (Rs 9.99-13.83 lakh). For reference, currently, the Yaris retails between Rs 9.16 lakh and Rs 14.60 lakh (ex-showroom).
As per some media reports, Toyota still has some stock of the Yaris so it will continue to sell it for the next few months. However, after its discontinuation, the brand will shift its focus to the upcoming Belta sedan and Hyundai Creta's rival SUV.
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Similar to the other Toyota-Suzuki co-developed products, there will be no substantial difference between the Maruti Ciaz and Toyota’s version of it, except for the revised front-facia. It will also be powered by the same 105PS 1.5-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine as the Ciaz, paired to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Both variants are likely to get mild-hybrid tech with an engine-idle stop-start feature to further increase its fuel efficiency.
As seen in the case of the Glanza and Urban Cruiser, the upcoming Toyota sedan could get a more reliable warranty package than what Maruti offers. Also, it is likely to be offered in a limited number of variants but the brand could price them aggressively so that it can attract more customers to its showrooms.
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In terms of features, Toyota's version of Ciaz will have the same equipment as offered in its donor model. The list includes a 7.0-inch touchscreen Smartplay studio infotainment system with Apple Carplay & Android Auto, automatic climate control with rear AC vents, LED headlamps, passive keyless entry system with push-button, leather upholstery, cruise control, dual-airbags, etc. However, Toyota is likely to make minor changes to the interior in the form of a new color scheme and updated upholstery.
While there is still some time left in Yaris's discontinuation, buyers can get a huge discount of up to Rs 65,000 on the sedan. In addition, buyers may also receive some dealer-specific offers as they will be in a hurry to clear their final stock.