Toyota launches what could be the year’s most important car

It took Toyota Motor Philippines 26 years to break the one million sales mark since they started operations in 1989, but only an additional three to add half a million more. At the center of this crowning achievement is the Vios. The country’s bestselling car for a decade, over 270,000 made their way to Filipino homes since the first-generation model debuted in 2003. And now, the country’s dominant carmaker has launched the all-new, fourth-generation Vios — an entry-level car specifically designed for today’s design-driven, tech-savvy Filipino.

With 17 percent of Vios buyers stating exterior design as their primary purchase reason, designers wasted no effort in making the 2018 model the sleekest, sportiest sub-compact sedan to ever come out of the Toyota stable. Its attention to detail extends to the numerous aerodynamic touches including an engine undercover.

Although it rides on a carryover platform, the all-new Vios has new welding points adding structural rigidity for improved handling, while revised coil springs contribute to a suppler ride. Extensive work has also been done to make it 11 percent quieter from the previous model including 40 percent more sound insulation in the dash panel.

Inside, the cabin has also been vastly improved. Not only does it echo the Vios’ striking exterior, but it’s made with higher-class materials. It looks technical with its all-black color scheme, aluminum-like highlights, and high-gloss piano black accents. Front or back, there’s commendable amounts of space, although extra attention has been given to the rear seats giving it better comfort and support. And with families becoming more focused on comfort and convenience, it comes with a longer list of standard features, some of which make their debut on the Vios for the very first time such as a push-button start/stop and automatic climate control.

In terms of drivetrain, the Vios carries on with its choice of 1.3- and 1.5-liter four-cylinder engines. Equipped with Dual VVT-i, they make 98hp and 106hp respectively, while torque remains the same at 123Nm and 140Nm. Transmission options also remain the same: a 5-speed manual or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), although it’s worth noting that the latter benefits from a tweaked software that promises improved response. The 1.5-liter models also add more driver control via paddle shifters and three switchable driving modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport.

Most importantly, the Vios is now taking the leadership in safety for the subcompact sedan class. For the first time ever, safety doesn’t take a backseat with every variant getting seven airbags, ABS with EBD, and vehicle stability control as standard.

“The All-New Vios is packed with top-notch specifications and first-rate accessories, with its riding comfort complementing its sporty design. Most of all, it prides itself with a five-star ASEAN New Car Assessment Program or NCAP rating with its advanced safety features. This remarkable car has almost everything the customer is looking for. Its signature quality, durability, and reliability remains unrivaled by any other brand or model, making it ‘the best in its class,” says Satoru Suzuki, President of Toyota Motor Philippines.

Globally, the Philippines is the Vios’ second biggest market and this has enabled Toyota Motor Philippines to participate in the government’s Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy or CARS Program. With a monthly sales target of about 3,500 vehicles, it’s on track to reach its commitment to produce 200,000 units in a span of six years.

“The Toyota Vios has touched the lives of many Filipinos and continues to serve its purpose — truly an enduring icon on the road, and this all-new Vios is yet again a testament to Toyota’s promise of always better cars, always better lives,” added Suzuki.

The all-new 2018 Toyota Vios is available in nine colors: Super Red, Grayish Blue Mica Metallic, Freedom White, Alumina Jade Metallic, Blackish Red Mica, Thermalyte, White Pearl, Red Mica Metallic, and Black. It’s now available at all Toyota showrooms nationwide at the following prices:

1.3 Base M/T – P659,000

1.3 J M/T – P685,000

1.3 E M/T – P828,000

1.3 E CVT – P878,000

1.3 E Prime M/T – P883,000

1.3 E Prime CVT – P933,000

1.5 G M/T – P981,000

1.5 G CVT – P1,040,000

1.5 G Prime CVT – P1,095,000