IT was in July 2018 when Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) finally revealed the much-awaited all-new Vios. Emerged in a completely remodeled exterior figure and interior layout, the brand’s best-selling sedan’s fresh look is unquestionably a big leap in terms of design. But apart from the notable design changes, the all-new subcompact sedan now comes with a newly introduced distinction—the Prime grade.
According to TMP, the Prime grade is intended to capture the younger market in the country. Be that as it may, we’ve already seen how the Vios captured a wider range of demographics, particularly those seeking for the best all-rounder sedan. Several months back, we were able to experience both the top-of-the-line and base models on a long-distance drive during TMP’s media drive event. So for this month’s feature, we get to test the other dressed-up version in the midvariant class—the 1.3 E Prime CVT beaming in Thermalyte shade.
Exterior-wise, the innovative look now sports a more flamboyant design worthy of being a standout. The fascia’s immense transformation puts this new model more consistent with the brand’s latest design cues globally. One in particular is the pronounced bumper grille layout present in Toyota’s latest sedans. This further complements the known signature “keen look” coming from the slim and stretched headlights with subtle vents in between and a solid centerpiece housing the emblem. Even the standard fog lamps frame received a new frame design to match the bumper grille.
The flanks, meantime, have numerous patterns of delineations and flowing lines matching those from the bonnet. But the black trims bordering the belt line and windows provided the accentuation. As for the equally stunning rear end, just like the front part, it received a substantial makeover. The newly shaped rear combination lights are now slimmer and extended. The new rear design brought more definitions to complement the fresh taillights and even got an additional fin-type antenna on top. Moreover, providing more distinctions to the Prime variants are the exclusive add-ons such as the front and rear bumper skirts, side skirts, and rear spoiler. Completing the exterior enhancements are the new multispoke, 15-inch alloy rims wrapped in 185/60 series rubbers.
Inside is where you’ll also see more of the all-new Vios’s major changes giving you that different feel factor. The dashboard and three-spoke helm designs are now identical to what its subcompact hatchback sibling has. With modern and stylish layout, emphasis is now on the center panel with the infotainment, air vents, aircon controls and other switches in one cluster. It is also trimmed with polished metal border, piano black surface, and silver accents on the sides. Those velvety seats are now more snug with enough paddings and bolsters. Also, standard to the Prime, G and E grades is the seven-inch touchscreen display audio with CD/MP3, AUX, USB, Bluetooth, voice control, and Weblink for iOS/Android. Even the center console looks sleeker with its equal share of glossy finishes and garnishes. We only noticed that it extends toward the rear. Nevertheless, rear passengers would definitely enjoy the generous legroom and comfy seat.
Retained under the hood was the same 1.3-liter 1NR-FE motor for the E and J grades inherited from its predecessor’s engine upgrade. Generating 98 hp and 123 N-m of maximum torque, this particular engine series proved to be more responsive and efficient. This also gives the all-new Vios the ideal performance needed for city as well as highway dwellings. In fact, mostly during the test period, we had to go through urban routes with the worst traffic situations just to evaluate the powertrain’s fuel consumption. Even so, the vehicle managed to attain a theoretical reading ranging between 9-10 km/liter.
The coupled CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission), as always, was as seamless as expected in terms of shifting. Torque registry becomes aggressive toward the midrange if you need a quick sprint. The low-end output, meantime, is more than acceptable if you just want to go easy and steady on level roads. While the CVT is seamless on highways and level roads, dealing with gradients necessitated more push to retain revs within the optimum range. Good thing there’s manual mode to achieve that.
On the road, the ride definitely leans toward comfort. The level of rigidity is just enough in favor of handling and control. Tire rebounds from certain road imperfections are less bothersome, thanks to the higher tire series. On turns and curves, the vehicle also demonstrated good maneuverability. Steering was also light yet responsive. We liked that feel of nice and steady stiffness as the speed goes up. But another notable element is the cabin noise insulation. Throughout the test period, it was like driving a bigger car in terms of quietness.
As for safety, multiple SRS airbags from the front, side, curtain shield (driver side only), and knee area all came in standard across the board. Even the vehicle stability control, hill-start assist, and antilock brake system with electronic brake distribution, among others, are also available across all variants. But that’s not all, as the all-new Vios also received a five-star Asean NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) score in terms of advanced safety features.
The all-new Vios 1.3 E Prime CVT is for those who like the exterior add-ons for a well-dressed look but willing to let go several of the premium elements they can live without. It may have a smaller engine displacement, but it still gets the job done. The decent output along with essential safety features already makes this car an ideal all-rounder subcompact sedan for both urban and out-of-town jaunts.
Thumbs Up
- Revolutionized exterior design
- New cabin layout with premium trims
- Seven-inch touch-operated infotainment system
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Quiet and comfy ride
Thumbs Down
- Extended center console
- Low-end torque on slight gradients
Specifications
- Vehicle: All-new Toyota Vios 1.3 E Prime CVT
- Type: Subcompact sedan
- Engine: 1.3-liter 1NR-FE, inline four-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing), petrol fed
- Maximum power: 98 hp at 6,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 123 N-m at 4,400rpm
- Transmission: CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission)
Dimensions
- Overall length: 4,425 mm
- Overall width: 1,730 mm
- Overall height: 1,475 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,550 mm
- Tire size: 185/60 15R
Price as tested
- P933,000
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino