Toyota Vios And Yaris Facelift Launched
The Toyota Vios And Toyota Yaris have been launched in Malaysia. If you hadn’t figured out already, the Vios is the sedan version of the Yaris, and the Yaris, a Vios hatchback. Both models have been selling well for UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT). Since their respective launches in 2019, over 40,000 units of Vios and 20,000 units of Yaris have been sold. Like before, both models are available in three variants i.e. the base 1.5J, 1.5E, and 1.5G range topper.
The facelift models bring cosmetic refreshment as well as added features to offer better value to Toyota’s customers. To refresh the design, Toyota stylists have strengthened the visual presence with a new bumper with a bolder design, giving the front a wide stance look. The lights on the latest Vios and Yaris are now LED headlights with Follow-Me-Home function and manual leveling, paired with LED integrated Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and LED fog lights. The top two variants run on 16″ alloy rims while the 1.5J uses 15″ wheels.
Further, except for the 1.5J variant, the rest get Optitron meter clusters, offering better clarity and readability. The instrument panel of the top two variants also includes a 4.2″ Full Colour Multi Information Display (MID) using a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen.
Interior appointments are what set the Vios and Yaris apart. With the Vios, one gets leather upholstery (1.5G only) as well as a rear armrest. But the Yaris 1.5G does get a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob like the Vios. For variants with fabric upholstery, there is a new fabric design that is more casual yet elegant. A notable difference is that only the Vios 1.5J, among all these variants, does not come with 60:40 folding rear seats. Additionally, better connectivity can be enjoyed with the new 7″ display audio system upgraded with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto-ready (AACP) connectivity. Unfortunately the base variants don’t get this.
Toyota has designed the cars with numerous storage spaces for the front and rear occupants. Besides the deep console box between the front seats, there are also cup holders and spacious door pockets that fit water bottles. Further, the cup holders have LED lighting inside, to provide some ambient lighting. For gadgets and devices, Toyota has included two 2.1A USB ports. A 12V socket is also available for powering other devices or as an additional recharging point. You can also ask for the option of a wireless charger.
Like before, the Vios and Yaris are powered by the proven Toyota 2NR-FE 1.5L engine paired with a 7-speed CVT. This produces 107 PS @ 6,000 rpm and 140 Nm @ 4,200 rpm, with power delivery options available in Sport and Eco modes. The Vios 1.5G driver also enjoys a set of paddle shifters.
Safety has also been upgraded with the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), in line with Toyota’s aim of bringing down accidents and making the roads safer. To further assist the driver, TSS is now offered in all variants except the 1.5J. This system consists of a Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) which can be switched off if the driver does not require them.
PCS constantly monitors the road ahead and if a vehicle is detected and there is a possibility of a collision, the driver will receive a warning. If no action is taken to reduce speed, the brakes will automatically activate to reduce the risk of a collision. Meanwhile with LDA, when the car deviates from its lane unintentionally, an alert is shown on Multi Information Display (MID) with an accompanying buzzer sound. This is to prompt the driver to take corrective action to bring the car back into its correct position in the lane.
Other features added to the new Vios and Yaris are an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system that automatically activates during emergency braking, and a Rear Seatbelt Reminder to help ensure that rear passengers follow the law. An ISOFIX point with a tether anchor is also provided for installing a compatible child seat, also required by law for small children since the beginning of 2020.
The Vios and Yaris are rated with the maximum of 5 stars by ASEAN NCAP. Apart from its energy-absorbing, high-strength body structure, standard safety features across the range include 7 SRS airbags and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Additionally, all variants come with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) as well as Brake Assist (BA). Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) is also a standard feature and helps in preventing the car from rolling backwards when moving off on a steep slope. Also new is the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system which has been upgraded from 2D to 3D visuals. This is supplemented by a rear view camera and parking sensors. Additionally, there is the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic alert (RCTA) systems.
Security-wise, UMWT is offering a Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) as standard for both Vios and Yaris variants (optional in the 1.5J variants). This system uses GPS/GSM to track the location of the car at all times so if it is stolen, recovery can be made easier and more likely. It can also monitor and record vehicle speeds and other operating conditions, with data sent by email to a designated user via mobile app.
A front Digital Video Recorder (DVR) is installed as standard for the Vios & Yaris (except the 1.5J variants), and there is also the option of adding a rear DVR. You can also opt for the optional Aerokit which enhances the looks of the car; the latest kit has a restyled front bumper to match the new looks. These items are installed at UMWT’s own accessories centre adjacent to the plant. Installation is professionally done and proper colour-matching is assured.
The Vios is available in Orange Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Dark Blue Metallic, Red Mica Metallic, and Silver Metallic, while the Yaris has Red Mica Metallic, Platinum White Pearl and Silver Metallic as colour options.
The Toyota Vios variants are priced at RM74,623 (1.5J), RM82,593 (1.5E), and RM87,584 (1.5G) while the Toyota Yaris prices are RM70,940 (1.5J), RM80,380 (1.5E), and RM84,808 (1.5G). These prices are on-the-road without insurance for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia. The cars are covered by a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.
