What’s new in the 2015 Toyota Vios
As reported earlier this week, the Toyota Vios enters 2015 with all variants receiving specification updates to various degrees. These updates, UMW Toyota Motor claims, are made in response to customer feedback and market trends, thus making the car even better value for money.
Launched locally in October 2013, the Vios continues to line-up with the same range of variants as before, albeit with prices revised slightly upwards. The 1.5J, only variant available with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions, start at RM74,700 for the former and RM78,800 for the latter, both prices on-the-road with insurance. Moving up, we have the 1.5E at RM84,300, 1.5G at RM89,990, and TRD Sportivo at RM94,800.
The J and E models are the most improved versions of the lot, both getting keyless entry and engine start button that was previously exclusive to the G model upwards. Outwardly, the two lower variants also benefit from an uplifted appearance by getting chrome finishing on their door handles and boot lid garnish strip. The E and G models additionally get door sill scuff plates.
Inside, the G model gets its previously beige interior now finished in black complete with the fitment of leather upholstery and blue foot well illumination. The TRD Sportivo model retains its all-black interior finish complete with side-bolstered sports seats and amber foot well illumination.
In addition to the above factory-fitted enhancements, UMW Toyota also throws in a number of PDI-fitted accessories installed at the company’s own Integrated Quality Hub, and thus covered by the vehicle’s warranty. Depending on variant, these accessories are either optional or standard fitment.
For starters, all models get a portable tyre pump for convenient maintenance of tyre pressure at all times. The G and TRD Sportivo models additionally come standard with an application of premium security window film; this item is a cost option in the J and E models. The film is claimed to be fully compliant with current JPJ regulations and comes with 7-year warranty of its own. Those seeking an enhanced appearance can opt for a five-piece Aerokit with daytime running lights.
The range of optional infotainment systems have been upgraded two. As before, customers can choose between two multimedia touchscreen systems – one with GPS navigation, Internet connectivity, voice recognition; and the other without – but both featuring reverse camera integration. The cheaper DVD-AVX system gets a larger 6.1-inch screen (compared to 5.8 inches previously) whilst the higher-end DVD-AVN system gets a more advanced 7-inch capacitive touchscreen that recognizes ‘sweep gestures’.
Pictures: Official Toyota release.
