Toyota Vios - What makes it desirable over its competitors?

Vios is a mid-spec subcompact sedan that first arrived in the Philippines in 2003. It quickly replaced the ageing Toyota Corolla, and we never really looked back since. These days, Toyota Vios is still well-loved by Filipinos and continues to be a top-seller. So what makes it more desirable than its rivals? Let’s find out.

You get more options for a low price point

Toyota always offered different variants for the Vios line. It had three variants for its first-generation, four variants in the second, and six variants for its third generation.

Now in its fourth run, the 2019 Toyota Vios gives us four trim levels and a grand total of eight variants including 1.3 Base MT, 1.3 J MT, 1.3 E MT, 1.3 E CVT, 1.3 E CVT Prime, 1.5 G MT, 1.5 G CVT, and 1.5 G CVT Prime.

Compared to the entry-level subcompacts of other brands, Vios has the most options available:

• Honda Brio Amaze offers three variants: the 1.3 E MT, 1.3 S AT, and 1.3 Navi AT
• Hyundai Reina offers two: 1.4 GL MT and 1.4 GL AT
• Nissan Almera gives two variants: 1.5 N-Sport MT and 1.5 Sport AT
• JAC J4 only has two variants available: 1.5 VVT Luxury MT and 1.5 VVT Luxury CVT

Each trim level of the Toyota Vios also has distinctions, as shown below.

Toyota Vios Variants	1.3 Base	1.3 J	1.3 E	1.3 E Prime	1.5 G	1.5 G Prime
Engine
Drivetrain	1.3L dual VVT-i 4-cylinder in-line DOHC 16V EFI				1.5L dual VVT-i 4-cylinder in-line 4-cylinder DOHC 16V EFI
Transmission	5-speed manual		CVT or 5-speed manual	CVT	CVT or 5-speed manual	CVT
Power	96 hp at 6000 rpm				106 hp at 6000 rpm
Torque	123 Nm at 4400 rpm				140 Nm at 4200 rpm
Equipment
Power steering	Yes
Toyota Vehicle Security System	No		Alarm		Alarm and immmobilizer
Headlamps	4-Beam Halogen				Halogen Projector
Daytime running lights	No				Yes
Front fog lamps	No		Yes
Air cooler	Manual				Automated
Audio system	2DIN with CD, MP3, Bluetooth, USB, and AUX Connectivity		7” Touchscreen Display with CD, MP3, Bluetooth, USB, AUX Connectivity and Weblink syncing for iOS and Android
Starting system	Mechanical rotary				Push start
Eco and Sport drive mode	No				Only CVT variants	Yes

 

Bottom line: Toyota Vios gives you so many options that it almost feels like you’re choosing from different brands. Although the models are not that much different, you get better specs, features, and performance as you move higher.

Premium look at a bargain

The all-new Toyota Vios takes on the appearance of its Thai sibling, the Yaris Ativ. It features a more dynamic and aggressive aesthetic that doesn’t sacrifice elegance too much. While it’s certainly no luxury car, the Vios has enough oomph to pass off as a mid-tier sedan.

Its large low-lying grill coupled with deep hatchback lines and rear spoiler give it a more energetic look than Honda Brio Amaze. Unlike the entry-level subcompact from Honda, which has sharp edges, Vios has sleeker lines.

We dare say Vios is flashier than the 2019 Honda Accord whose starting price is almost three times the cost of its base model. It is worlds apart from Hyundai Reina that has awkward grills that don’t seamlessly blend in with the rest of the front end, as well as an unimpressive rear end.

Nissan Almera and JAC J4 seem like decent alternatives. However, they lack the sporty vibe of Vios, which many car owners are after.

Toyota has also made some improvements in the car’s interior. The dashboard no longer has the tacky faux stitching found in previous models. Instead, it has a very similar feel to the more extensive and expensive Toyota Corolla Altis. The seats provide more support and comfort than previous models, which adds to a premium feel.

Bottom line: No matter which variant you choose, you'll get an expensive-looking mid-spec sedan for a low price point.

No safety compromises

Most automakers give up safety features so they could sell vehicles for lower prices. Unfortunately, this meant that drivers and passengers were less safe in cheaper cars. The latest generation Vios doesn’t compromise on safety. Toyota Vios specs sheet tells that it has maxed out the safety kit of all  Vios variants.

Among the safety features of the 2019 Toyota Vios are:

• 7 airbags (including a driver's knee airbag)
• Anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribute (EBD) and
• Brake Assist (BA)
• Electronic stability control
• Hill-start assist control
• Rear ISOFIX child seat anchors

Vios competitors like Honda Brio Amaze, JAC J4, Nissan Almera, and Hyundai Reina don't have as many safety features if you opt for their lower-priced variants.

Bottom line: Whether you're buying the entry-level Base and J models, the mid-ranged E variants, or the high-end G units, Toyota Vios provides top-of-the-line safety for everyone.

You don't have to throw out your budget

Toyota drives a hard bargain and offers one of the cheapest subcompact sedans with the Vios line-up. Its base model retails for Php 659,000 and is cheaper than Honda Brio Amaze and JAC J4.

Bottom line: For less than Php 1.0M, you can buy a subcompact sedan with decent specs, premium look, and safety features that earned a 5-star ranking from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Also Read:- First-ever Toyota Young Marketeers Challenge: Pitching the Toyota Vios