While the Etios range is discontinued in India, it still continues to be a popular model in other countries
Toyota Etios was designed specifically for the Indian market when it was introduced nearly a decade back. However, sales were below expectations and the recent BS6 update resulted in the product getting taking off the shelves from Indian market. However, the range continues to be popular in the Brazilian market. Recently, it has received a major update.
Additions to 2021 Etios
Like in India, the Etios range in Brazil comprises the Etios sedan and the Etios Liva hatchback based on the same platform. The latest iteration of the Etios range gets updated technology in the form of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. In addition, the Etios duo gets a new 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system which offers other user-friendly features as well.
In addition to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the new infotainment systems offer utility apps such as Spotify, Waze, Google Maps and more. Another visual update is the matte black finish on the console and dashboard in the previous version has been replaced by a more premium gloss back finish. Apart from this, there are no other design modifications on the outside or inside.
The updated 2021 models now get enhanced features for a safer ride. This includes head restraints for all inside the cabin, three-point seatbelts, ISOFIX child mounts support, stability as well as traction control. Additionally, the Brazilian-spec models get hill start assist, twin front airbags and ABS as standard functionalities. It also gets updated with new LED headlights.
Powertrain Options
There are no alterations in specifications either. The Brazilian-spec Etios range continues to draw its power from petrol or an ethanol-powered unit. The 1.3-litre VVT-i engine generates 94 bhp on the petrol model and 101 bhp on the ethanol variant, whereas the 1.5-litre VVT-i mill cranks a 102 bhp on the petrol and 107 bhp on the ethanol derivative. The sedan model only gets a 1.5-litre unit as a powertrain choice.
Both models are offered with the option of either a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic gearbox. Additionally, there is a CNG variant on offer which is popular among the fleet operators. In Brazil, the Etios range is offered at a starting price of 55,390 Brazilian Real which is around INR 7.40 lakh, while the range-topping trim of the automatic sedan is available at a price of 72,690 Brazilian Real which rounds off to INR 9.71 lakh.
In India, Toyota is currently prepping for the launch of its sub-4 metre compact SUV- Urban Cruiser, which is essentially a re-badged version of Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza. The Urban Cruiser is slated to be unwrapped on 22 September. Upon its launch, it will enter a stiff rivalry with its Maruti twin (Brezza), Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Ford EcoSport, and Mahindra XUV300. In coming months it will face more competition from Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger.
