Toyota is rapidly readying a full portfolio of hybrid powertrains for the European market and now word comes that the Japanese automaker is considering building its Yaris-based hybrid in France. Earlier this month, Toyota confirmed that it would build a hybrid based on the smaller Auris – which slots just below the Yaris – in the United Kingdom.
The hybrid will also be built in Japan, reports Asahi, where it will retail for about $15,800. Designed to compete with Honda ’s upcoming Fit hybrid, the Yaris-platform hybrid would be based on the revised 2011 Yaris. The powertrain would be based on the Yaris’ upgraded four-cylinder motor, though few additional details are known.
Toyota has said that it plans to develop a more region-specific product portfolio and that it will focus its European efforts on hybrids despite the relatively tepid initial reception to models like the Prius.
