The new Toyota Vios (Yaris) made its global debut in Thailand earlier this year and is now expected to launch in Malaysia next year
The Toyota Vios is one of the most affordable sedans in the brand’s portfolio and is known for its practical and comfortable cabin. The Japanese carmaker recently launched the new 2023 Toyota Vios LHD in Laos, making it the second ASEAN country for it to be available in. The new-gen 2023 Vios is also expected to go on sale in Malaysia sometime in 2023.
The new Toyota Vios made its global debut on August 9 this year in Thailand. This new iteration boasts a number of updates including a new front fascia dominated by a new sharp LED headlamp cluster, new alloy wheels, and updated rear styling. The teaser images for the Laos market however feature a different alloy wheel design when compared to the Thai-spec version. The size of the wheels however remains similar.
While the Thai-spec version is powered by a 1.2L 3N-VE Dual VVT petrol engine, the buyers in the Laos market will get a more powerful and larger 1.3L 1NR-VE petrol motor. This engine churns out a peak power output of 98 hp and 122 Nm of maximum torque while it is offered with two gearbox options – a 5-speed manual and a CVT gearbox. For those wondering, the 1.2L engine delivers peak power and torque output of 94 hp and 110 Nm. This engine however is only available with a Super CVT-i-gearbox.
This generation of the Vios is underpinned by the DNGA platform and is comparable to the cars like the Honda City and the Hyundai Verna when it comes to external dimensions and footprint. Inside, you get an extremely elegant and premium to look at dashboard layout that is dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system in the centre and a digital instrument cluster.
On the features front, you will get features like automatic climate control, push-button start, power-operated seats, steering mounted controls, electric parking brake, 64-colour ambient lighting system, air filtration system, and more.
On the safety front, the sedan is offered with a few Toyota Safety Sense items. These include Pre-Collision System (AEB), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Front Departure Alert, and Pedal Misoperation Control. The brand is however yet to announce any decisive plans to bring this sedan in the Indian market.