New Toyota Yaris light car platform could also underpin Hyundai Venue rival

Toyota has announced the next stage of its TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) chassis family will be for light cars like the next-generation Yaris and possibly a sub-C-HR SUV derivative.

The new light car chassis, which follows on from the GA-C (C-HR, Corolla) and GA-K (Camry, RAV4) platforms, is set to improve the ride and handling of future Toyota light cars, as well as optimise interior space and seating positions.

Toyota has specified that the GA-B platform is fully modular (much like its competitor MQB platform from Volkswagen) and will support “a variety of wheelbase lengths, vehicle heights, and track widths” with a look to produce an entire family of “sub-compact” vehicles.

Without a doubt, there is space for this platform to support a sub-C-HR SUV to compete with Hyundai’s upcoming sub-Kona-sized Venue. Much like previous TNGA chassis designs, the GA-B platform consists of purely “non-visible” components to allow for a family of vehicles with distinct looks.

The GA-B platform will also support different types of fundamental underpinnings, like the choice of multi-link or torsion beam rear suspension.

Toyota’s new platform is said to optimise driving positions and interior space regardless of the car’s bodytype.

Toyota also promises improved light car “driving performance” courtesy of a low centre of gravity, high levels of underbody rigidity, and wheels at the platform corners.

The announcement of the new platform helps make sense of the recent news that the Mazda2-based Yaris available in some markets won’t be making it Down Under and previews a new generation of the light car that was last updated in 2017.

Variable dimensions will almost certainly lead to a high-riding SUV Yaris spin-off.

It is likely more information will come to light on the next-gen Yaris off the back of this platform announcement next year.