Toyota’s popular compact hybrid car, the Aqua, is scheduled to undergo a major facelift on September 1, 2025. For those currently considering purchasing an Aqua, an important decision point is whether to wait for the new model or buy now. This article will help you make the best decision by providing detailed information about the new Aqua and comparing it with the current model.
2025 Aqua minor change: Overview and schedule
Release Schedule
- Announcement and release date : September 1, 2025
- Pre-order start date : Early August 2025
- Price announcement and quotation preparation : Scheduled for early August 2025
This improvement is called a “big minor change,” and major changes comparable to a full model change are planned.
Major changes to the new Aqua 2025 model
Renewed exterior design
The most notable change to the new Aqua is the introduction of the ” hammerhead design” that is used in Toyota’s top models such as the Prius. This improves the overall unity of the Toyota brand and gives it a more sophisticated appearance.
Z grade exclusive equipment
- LED light connecting left and right headlights
- An advanced front mask with a sense of unity
Changes common to all vehicles
- Black roof antenna (shark fin type)
- Black door mirrors
- Total length extended by 30mm (4,080mm)
Major upgrades to the interior and equipment
Evolution of meter displays
- Meter display: enlarged from 4.2 inches to 7 inches
- Hybrid meter adopted (same specifications as Sienta)
High-performance display audio
- 8-inch or 10.5-inch display audio options
- Connected navigation compatible (latest maps and traffic information via communication)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay compatible
- HDMI input supported
- CD/DVD decks are completely eliminated
Convenience-enhancing equipment
- Electric parking brake (EPB) is standard equipment on all vehicles
- Auto brake hold function (with memory function)
- Drive mode selection function (self-resetting type)
Significantly improved safety equipment
The evolution of Toyota Safety Sense
- Pre-crash safety nighttime bicycle detection
- Added motorcycle detection function
- Equipped with Proactive Driving Assist (PDA)
- Added driver abnormality response system
Proactive Driving Assist (PDA)
Driver emergency response system
Advanced features that come standard on all vehicles
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Panoramic View Monitor
- Front and rear drive recorders
- ETC2.0 onboard device
Adding new features
- Smooth stop function (suppresses vehicle body shaking before stopping)
- Safe Exit Assist (SEA)
Changes in pricing and marketing strategies
Pricing for the 2025 model
| grade | 2025 model (FF) | Current model (FF) | Price difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| X | 2,486,000 yen | 2,146,000 yen | +340,000 yen |
| G | 2,654,300 yen | 2,294,000 yen | +360,300 yen |
| Z | 2,824,800 yen | 2,565,000 yen | +259,800 yen |
Reasons for the price increase
- Significantly enhanced equipment : electric parking brake, large display, etc.
- Standardization of safety equipment : Expensive safety equipment becomes standard on all vehicles
- Shift to a luxury line : Strategy to differentiate from Yaris
Review of grade structure
- Discontinued grades : GR SPORT, special edition Raffine
- New grade : KINTO exclusive grade “U”
Powertrain and fuel economy
Continuing hybrid system
- Engine : Inline 3-cylinder 1.5L “Dynamic Force Engine” (91ps/12.2kgm)
- Motor : 80ps/14.4kgm
- Drive system : FF/4WD (E-Four)
- Fuel economy : FF 34.6km/L, E-Four 30.0km/L (WLTC mode)
The use of a bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery enables highly efficient hybrid driving.
Characteristics of people who should “wait” for the new Aqua
If any of the following apply to you, we recommend you wait for the new model:
Those who value the latest equipment
- You want a large display and the latest connected features
- I want to use wireless Apple CarPlay
- Want the convenience of an electric parking brake?
Those who prioritize safety performance
- Requires the latest Toyota Safety Sense
- Nighttime bicycle detection is important
- I want a dashcam and ETC2.0 as standard equipment.
Those who value design
- I’m attracted to the latest hammerhead design
- Seeking a unified Toyota brand
- I like the advanced look created by the LED lights.
Characteristics of people who should “buy now” the current model
If any of the following apply to you, we recommend purchasing the current model:
Those who prioritize price
- I feel that the price difference between 250,000 yen and 360,000 yen is large.
- Basic equipment is sufficient
- Cost performance is the top priority
If you need a car urgently
- My current car’s inspection is coming up soon
- Need a car for a job transfer or move?
- There are circumstances that can’t wait until September
Those who are satisfied with their current equipment
- 4.2 inch meter is enough
- No problem with wired CarPlay
- I’m used to using a foot-operated parking brake
Comparison with competing models
Toyota Yaris Hybrid
- Price range : Approximately 2 million to 2.5 million yen
- Features : More compact, price-conscious
- Differentiation from the new Aqua : High-end equipment and safety performance
Honda Fit
- Price range : Approximately 2 million to 2.7 million yen
- Features : Spacious interior, simple operation
- Comparison points : fuel efficiency and maturity of hybrid systems
Nissan Note Aura
- Price range : Approximately 2.7 million to 3.2 million yen
- Features : Quietness thanks to e-POWER, high-quality interior
- Comparison point : Price range is comparable to the new Aqua
Advantages and disadvantages depending on the timing of purchase
If you are waiting for a new model
merit
- Enjoy the latest equipment and safety features
- High long-term satisfaction
- Expected resale value
- Experience Toyota’s latest design language
Disadvantages
- Additional costs of approximately 250,000 to 360,000 yen
- Approximately two months of waiting time until September
- Risks of early batches (possibility of delivery delays)
- Miss out on clearance prices for current models
If you are purchasing a current model
merit
- Immediate purchase and delivery available
- Expectations for discounts due to inventory clearance
- Cost reduction of 250,000 to 360,000 yen
- Reliability through mature technology
Disadvantages
- It will become obsolete in a few months
- You can’t experience the latest equipment
- Decline in mid- to long-term resale value
- Possible regret
Summary: Which is the best choice for you?
Those who should wait for the new model
- Prioritizing equipment and performance over price
- High interest in the latest technology
- Plan to drive for a long period (5 years or more)
- have time to spare
How to choose the current model
- Emphasis on cost performance
- Basic functions are sufficient
- I need a car immediately
- I would like to purchase at clearance price
The Toyota Aqua’s 2025 facelift will be a major evolution that goes beyond simple improvements. While the new model certainly has great appeal, the current model is also a highly refined vehicle. Make the best choice by taking into consideration your lifestyle, budget, and values.
Regardless of which you choose, the Aqua offers excellent fuel economy and practicality. The important thing is to make the choice that offers the most value for you right now.
