Toyota has just launched its Etios budget car on the local local market in a bid to grab a slice of the growing entry-level B-segment, currently being dominated by the likes of the VW Polo Vivo and Ford Figo. It is offered in both hatchback and saloon body styles and has been designed with budget-friendly motoring in mind. Etios is imported from India.
All Etios models are powered by a 1,5-litre petrol engine that develops 66 kW and 132 N.m of torque. The only gearbox offered is a five-speed manual one. Toyota claims a fuel consumption figure of 5,9 L/100 km for the saloon, and 6,0 L/100 km for the hatch. Top speed is rated as 165 km/h while the 0-100 km/h sprint takes 11,3 seconds.
The Etios features the “smiling” grille that can be seen across the Toyota product range, a sculpted bonnet and a low character line. There are two trim levels available – Xi and Xs – on both the hatch and saloon. Featured across the range are colour-coded bumpers and 14-inch steel wheels. If you opt for the Xs version, your Etios will come equipped with colour-coded door handles and grille, as well as chrome accents on the outside of the car. The Etios saloon has a longer wheelbase than the hatch and a mammoth boot, rated at 595 litres in size.
Standard comfort and convenience features include cupholders, power steering, air-conditioning and, on the XS model, remote central locking and eletric windows. All Etios models have dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, manual headlamp levelling and tilt-adjustable steering.
While Toyota's Aygo has been competing in the small-car market, the company has not had a B-segment competitor since the popular Tazz departed the scene.
Calvyn Hamman, Senior Vice President for sales and marketing of Toyot South Africa Motors stated that, “The Etios will complete our entry-level line-up and will be sold alongside A- and B-segment offerings in the form of the Toyota Aygo and Toyota Yaris. Both these models are already major volume sellers in their segments, while we believe that the Etios’s combination of space, value for money and specifications will soon make it a favourite in the sub-B segment.”
Prices start at a very competitive R115 800, but perhaps the Etios's biggest attraction at the price (besides its badge) will be the standard two-year/30 000 km service plan. Service intervals are, however, set at a conservative every 10 000 km.
Keep your eye on CARmag.co.za for more details and a full driving impression soon. For the full press release and specification document click on the documents tab in the top right-hand corner of the image.
PRICES
Etios 1.5 HB Xi – R115 800;
Etios 1.5 HB Xs – R120 900;
Etios 1.5 SD Xi – R121 800;
Etios 1.5 SD Xs – R126 600.