SPY PICS: Toyota Yaris mule caught on camera

These somewhat fuzzy spy photos show Toyota's next-generation Yaris light car undergoing testing on its way to an expected public launch in early 2018.

However if you want clues to the styling, you'll have to wait: the car pictured here is clearly dressed in existing sheet metal from the current model. Even so, it's considered likely the new Yaris won't move too far from existing styling themes.

For the moment we'll have to go with the scuttlebutt surrounding the upcoming Yaris, including the firming rumours of a hot, WRC-inspired turbo version that will target Ford's Fiesta ST and Volkswagen's Polio GTI. Although some sources are reckoning it will be AWD, it appears certain the micro hotshot will drive just the front wheels.

Speculation surrounding the more prosaic Yaris models suggests its dimensions will not change markedly apart from microscopic increases to overall length and wheelbase.

There's also talk of a more refined interior taking some influence from the company's 1.2-litre C-HR mini SUV due to arrive in Australia in early 2017. It's also being speculated the next-gen Yaris will adopt, in up-spec models, Toyota electronic tech including the Touch 2 infotainment system.

No prizes for guessing the Yaris will continue in three and five-door hatch configuration as a competitor for the likes of Kia's Rio, Hyundai's Accent, Volkswagen's Polo and Ford's Fiesta.