In the Philippines, the Toyota Yaris sedan is sold as ‘Vios’ (‘Yaris Ativ’ in certain other markets)
Japanese automaker Toyota’s Yaris C-segment sedan (‘compact sedan’ in global standards) has received a facelift in the Philippines. In Southeast Asian markets such as the Philippines, Singapore, China, Malaysia and Taiwan, the Toyota Yaris is sold under ‘Vios’ nameplate (‘Yaris Ativ’ in certain other markets). The upcoming 2021MY Yaris facelift receives a range of exterior updates that make it a lot snazzier compared to its previous version.
Exterior Updates
At the front, we can see an updated Lexus-like ‘spindle grille’ that significantly enhances the car’s persona. Other key changes include newly designed headlamps, fog lamp housing and taillights. In higher variants, the sedan gets chrome accents for a premium feel. However, the overall silhouette remains largely the same as before. This is a minor facelift.
In terms of functionality, the headlights get projector lens (with LED DRLs), replacing the outdated halogen units of the current model. Bumpers are the biggest change and they add some sportiness to the otherwise generic design.
Are you ready to see the new leveled-up Vios? Watch us live on July 25, 6pm on our Facebook page. #LevelUpWithVios
Posted by Toyota Motor Philippines on Wednesday, 22 July 2020
Interior Features
On the inside, the new Toyota Yaris or Vios facelift offers an electric sunroof, cruise control, automatic climate control, roof-mounted air vents (familiar setup), powered front seats and more. The touchscreen, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, gets a few updates as well.
Safety & Assists
In the safety department, the new Yaris ticks several boxes. Notable equipment include seven airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), rear parking camera + sensors, etc. Furthermore, the sedan boasts of a 5-star safety rating in ASEAN NCAP (2017).
Engine Options
In the Philippines, Toyota’s facelifted Vios comes with two petrol engine options: 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre. Output figures stand at 98ps/123Nm and 106ps/140Nm, respectively. respectively. A 5-speed manual comes as standard while the 1.5-litre variant also gets a 7-step CVT option.
On the other hand, the Indian-spec Toyota Yaris comes with a 1.5-litre BS6 petrol motor good for 107ps and 140Nm of torque. This is mated to either a 6-speed manual or 7-step CVT. There was no diesel option in BS4 era too. Prices start at Rs 8.76 lakh ex-showroom.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor would most likely bring the facelift to our market sometime early next year. It will continue to rival India’s popular C-segment sedan choices such as the Honda City (new generation out), Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Rapid.
