Toyota South Africa has discontinued its 1,6-litre Tazz derivatives and introduced a range-topping 130 XE model to its the budget car range.
Toyota South Africa has discontinued its 1,6-litre Tazz derivatives and introduced a range-topping 130 XE model to its the budget car range.
“With this revision the Tazz will become a 1,3-litre range only,” Toyota SA president and chief executive Johan van Zyl said. “We will provide three model derivatives, the Tazz 130, the Tazz 130 Sport, and the high-spec Tazz 130 XE. In addition, there is a ‘Rental’ derivative specified for sale to car rental fleets, and the Carri panel van.”
“We have found a diminishing demand for 1,6-litre models in this sector, with these buyers now attracted to the lower end of the RunX range rather than the Tazz,” Van Zyl added. “The lower volumes of the larger-engined Tazz are no longer economic to support and the two 1,6-litre models have thus been deleted from the range.
The range starts with the Tazz 130, which is powered by Toyota’s 12-valve 1,3-litre engine developing 55k W at 6 200 r/min and a maximum torque of 103 N.m at 4 200 r/min. Drive is via a 5-speed transmission.
The 130 has steel wheels fitted with 155 SR13 tyres, a full size spare wheel, disc brakes at the front and drum at the rear. Full wheel covers are added to the specification of this latest version as is a bee-sting radio antenna and revised trim. A rear screen demister is fitted on this model and all others in the range.
The rear seat folds down in a 60/40 split for added versatility and bumpers are colour co-ordinated. Security features on this base model Tazz are an integral gearlock, VIN parts numbering, and Toyota’s secret-code identification system.
The middle-of-the-range Tazz 130 Sport features the same engine and transmission as the Tazz 130 but added to the specification are: 5.5JJX14 alloy wheels fitted with 175/65 TR14 tyres, front mudflaps, window frame blackouts, a tailgate-mounted rear spoiler, courtesy lamp with delay feature, and remote control alarm/immobiliser.
Also new on the 130 Sport model are restyled alloy wheels, a new three spoke steering wheel design, tinted glass all round, top shading for the front windshield, front mudflaps, and central locking.
The top-of-the-range Tazz 130 XE is equipped in line with the Corolla GLE specification level. In addition to the specification found on the Tazz 130 Sport, the 130 XE has a four-speaker radio CD system and an air conditioner as standard equipment.
The Tazz range is covered by a 3year/100 000 kilometre warranty. Corrosion perforation is covered for three years and “In Touch 24” roadside assistance is available for three years. Service intervals are 15 000 kilometres.