Toyota, the Japanese automaker launched the Etios sedan in the country to improve its market share in the budget segment. However, the vehicle failed to generate volume for the maker. Now, the company is planning to launch the Vios sedan in the country. Already on sale in few international markets, the sedan will be positioned between the Etios sedan and the Corolla Altis. The sedan has already been spotted testing on Indian roads; however, Toyota Kirloskar Motor is yet to confirm the launch of the Vios saloon in our market.
Based on the Yaris hatchback platform, the Toyota Vios saloon will rival against the likes of Honda City, Hyundai Verna, VW Vento, Skoda Rapid, Nissan Sunny and Maruti Suzuki Ciaz. It is expected to be priced in the range of Rs. 7 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh. The Vios sedan measures 4410mm in length, 1700mm in width and 1475mm tall, and it comes with a large wheelbase of 2550mm. In Thailand, the sedan has a low ground clearance of 147mm; however, the India-spec model is likely to get around 160-165mm of ground clearance.
The Toyota Vios sedan is likely to be offered in two engine options- a 1.5-litre VVT-I petrol and the 1.4-litre D4-D diesel. While the petrol engine is capable of producing 107bhp of power and 141Nm of torque, the oil burner is good for 88PS of power. A five-speed manual gearbox is likely to be offered as standard, while a four-speed automatic gearbox will come as an option.
