Updated Design and Equipment
Updated: Toyota has introduced the updated Aqua in Japan, publishing official photos and specifications for both the standard model and the Modellista version. This article now contains all confirmed information.
Model Overview
Over the past few years, Toyota’s signature “hammerhead” design has spread to most of the brand’s models, with several more cars awaiting an update. Next on the list was the Aqua hatchback, which just received a mid-lifecycle update in Japan.
If the name is unfamiliar, the Aqua is a compact hatchback that entered its second generation in 2021. Built on the Yaris platform, it runs exclusively on a self-charging hybrid system. Its predecessor was offered abroad, including in North America, as the Prius C, but the latest generation remains exclusive to the Japanese market.
Exterior and Technology
The main feature of the Aqua is the updated front end. New headlights are connected by a full-width LED light bar and combined with a thin grille on the fresh bumper. The lower intake is significantly smaller, very reminiscent of the Prius.
The rest of the body has remained largely unchanged compared to the previous model. The only exceptions are slightly different mirrors and black trim on the tailgate that integrates a smaller Toyota emblem and what appears to be a second rear spoiler. Toyota has not yet published photos of the updated GR Sport trim, which may have different body kit.
Besides the exterior, the update brings minor changes to the interior. A new 7-inch digital instrument cluster is standard for all trims, paired with an 8- or 10.5-inch multimedia display. The hatchback has also received an electronic parking brake mechanism with an auto-hold function and the more advanced Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 ADAS suite.
The Aqua is based on the TNGA-B platform, which it shares with the Yaris and Yaris Cross. Under the hood is the same self-charging hybrid powertrain, consisting of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, two electric motors, and a bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery. The model is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (E-Four AWD) versions. Additionally, the hatchback has received the “Smooth Stop Control” function, borrowed from the flagship Century SUV, which costs around 27 million yen (approximately $185,000) in Japan.
Pricing and Availability
The updated Toyota Aqua is already available for order in Japan. Prices start at 2,486,000 yen ($16,900) for the base X trim with front-wheel drive and go up to 3,022,800 yen ($20,600) for the top Z trim with E-Four AWD.
Offers from Modellista
While the GR Sport trim is absent from the updated Aqua lineup, Modellista has already introduced a body kit for the hybrid hatchback, which includes a sporty front bumper extension with integrated LEDs, sharper side skirts, and matching rear skirts. The aerodynamic elements can be combined with three-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, tinted windows, and wooden interior trim.
The Modellista body kit costs 174,900 yen ($1,200), the wheels are priced at 149,600 yen ($1,000), and the interior elements add another 30,800 yen ($210).
This update highlights Toyota’s growing trend of unifying design and technology across different models, ensuring brand recognition and production efficiency. The retention of the unchanged hybrid system underscores its reliability and popularity in the Japanese market, where environmental friendliness and fuel economy remain key factors in car choice.