Toyota has just launched an all new 3rd generation Vios. A best seller in the region, the previous 2 versions of the Vios have seen sterling sales numbers in Malaysia and the rest of the region.
This new Vios looks like a scaled down Camry with sharp edge looks, lots of chrome and a form fitting bodykit that gives the new Vios ‘on road’ presence. The roof carries a catamaran design to aid in aerodynamics and reduce cabin noise.
Step inside this Vios and you will see an interior that follows the Camry. It is well executed from the dashboard to the rear panel. In the high grade model Vios, the two tone beige and black cabin has a very executive look with a dashboard of textured plastic lined with stitches for added premium feel. The seats are wide and with good neck and head support. A new multi functioning entertainment unit sits fitted to a ‘tablet’ like centre console. It’s a touch screen unit with full navigation, audio and Bluetooth connectivity. Under the entertainment unit is 3 rotary dials for climate control. Below this is a shelf for keys and small nick-nacks. The steering wheel has audio controls for added convenience.
The ‘push button’ ignition is new to the Vios and comes with keyless start and entry into the new Vios.
The driver gets a good view ahead as this Vios comes with a large windscreen. The front passenger seat accommodates a sizeable adult with ease and the rear seating will allow 3 passengers to get comfortable. Like with the previous Vios models, the rear centre passenger has ample legroom with the center tunnel removed allowing for his or her feet to sit comfortably on the car floor.
Cabin amenities is good with large door pockets and a ‘tablet’ holder in the centre between the seats. The boot is now larger with a higher lid and this allows 4 golf-bags to be carried with ease.
Use the push button ignition and the Vios comes alive with no engine note entering the cabin. It’s a well damped cabin with no engine noise and little traffic noise coming in as you drive in city traffic. The cabin has been insulated to cater for great travel comfort. The 4-speed gearbox may be carried over but its ratios have been revised to suit the new engine management system that allows this Vios to be exploited further up the engine revolution range where the traffic authorities are not watching. Yes, this new Vios is able to reach higher speeds and still return a very stable ride and handling.
The Toyota Vios from the 1st generation to this latest model is built at a Malaysian factory which has seen a RM600 million investment since the introduction of the 1st model. This has allowed Toyota to use almost 50% local content in this all new Vios.
Toyota Vios All New Model Specifications
Engine: 4-cylinder 16V DOHC VVT-i
Displacement: 1497cc
Max engine power: 109bhp @ 6000rpm
Max engine torque: 141Nm @ 4200rpm
Gearbox: 4-speed auto Super ECT
Selling Price: From RM73,200 to RM93,200
Warranty: 3 Years or 150,000km (whichever come first)
