A facelifted version of the Toyota Vios has been launched for the Thai market. It sports a revised design, new feature list but with a single petrol engine option for Thailand. It has been priced in the range of 609,000 Baht to 789,000 Baht (Rs 11.77 lakh to Rs 15.26 lakh).
The most noticeable update is the exterior design which is now in tune with the latest Toyota design philosophy. The face gets new headlamps, grille and logo. There are vertically stacked LED DRLs while the bonnet gets a muscular bulge. Move over to the side, we can see new alloy wheels while the rear has become wider with wrap around tail lamps and a large chrome strip above the number plate holder to up the premium factor.
Step inside and you are greeted by a familiar cabin but now with colour inserts for the upholstery and touchscreen infotainment system. However, it can also be had with beige or brown upholstery trim. Included in the package is ABS with EBD, brake assist, stability programme, ISOFIX child seat mounting points and a traction control programme. The engine on offer in Thailand is a 1.5-litre petrol unit that produces 108bhp/140Nm with the only transmission option being a CVT.
Currently, Toyota has no competitor in the C-segment and the closest that they come to that part of the market is the top-of-the-line diesel Platinum Etios which is priced at Rs 8.98 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). This then will be a vehicle that will help the automaker take on the likes of the Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Honda City, Nissan Sunny and the Renault Scala. If it does come here, expect it by the end of the year. Its arrival will also mean that Toyota will reposition the Platinum Etios to keep a distance between both cars.
