“This is not the Vios you know.
This... Is the all new Toyota Vios.”
IT is always an exciting thing when one of the main automotive players in Malaysia announces that it is launching a new car for one of its most popular models. UMW Toyota will be unveiling its All-New Toyota Vios tomorrow and leading up to this most anticipated launch, select automotive journalists were recently invited for an extensive test drive experience with the All-New Toyota Vios on the beautiful island of Langkawi.
The three day event saw us take to the island and its myriad terrain – from winding coastal roads, to the scenic Teluk Baru Highway, up steep Gunung Raya, and over the sandy beaches of Tanjung Rhu. On the few occasions that Waze confused itself and us, we ended up exploring the narrow back lanes of a few kampungs, overcoming potholes and loose gravel.
Before we get into the all-new Vios, let me fully disclose that I am neither a motoring journalist nor a particularly expert car enthusiast. But I am a seasoned driver and I have driven the length and breadth of Langkawi Island for more than 30 years, and I know a smooth ride when I feel one.
Aesthetics
Looks-wise, the all-new Toyota Vios is an absolute stunner. From the sleek exterior design to the cutting-edge technology packed into its interior, this car is truly a marvel of modern engineering.
One of the first things that stands out about the Vios is its refined sportiness. Angular lines have replaced the rounded contours of its predecessor. The body is crafted with precision, and the lines flow seamlessly from front to back.
It has the family resemblance of the Camry and Corolla, but the youthfulness of a much hipper car that will appeal to a younger demographic. The headlights and taillights are sleek and angular, giving the Vios a distinct and dynamic appearance that’s sure to turn heads.
Performance and handling
But the Vios isn’t just about looks. This car is built for performance, and it shows in every aspect of its design. Under the hood, the Vios boasts a powerful and efficient 1.5 litre, four-cylinder Dual VVT-i engine that delivers smooth acceleration and nimble handling. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets (or the back end of remote kampung lanes), this car responds with confidence and precision.
The new Vios handled extremely well during the slalom test at speed. The steering and braking were ultra responsive – I could brake to a standstill from about 80kph, as nerve-wracking as that was for a newbie test driver such as myself. The sea was just a few metres away and I did wonder if I would end up with the car in it at the time!
As for driver assistance systems, the Toyota Safety Sense suite makes a return and consists of familiar things like Pre-Collision System (autonomous emergency braking) and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
It also has Lane Departure Prevention, Lane Departure Warning, Front Departure Alert, Lane Keeping Control, Adaptive Cruise Control and Auto High Beam.
A look inside
Inside the cabin, the Vios is equally impressive. The leather seats are plush and comfortable, with ample space for both driver and passengers. The padded siding on the driver side is a nice touch and was a stabilising element that hugged me in place when manoeuvring tight turns at speed. Initially, I felt a bit closetted in, but this wasn’t a deal breaker the more time I spent driving the car.
The last Vios I rode in as a backseat passenger did not have nearly the impressive legroom of this all-new Vios. This is due to the lengthened chassis in this model – a definite win.
Techwise, the new Vios gains a few notable improvements over its predecessor. As a start, the available 9-inch Display Audio system now comes with support for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (previously wired only). The 3D Panoramic View Monitor is also a nice touch.
Elsewhere, this Vios now comes with an electronic parking brake with auto brake hold. The number of drive modes has also increased to three, namely Power, Eco and Normal.
If setting the right mood is your thing, there are controls for an ambient lighting system which are changeable according to your mood or to set a mood within the cabin. Personally, I would gladly exchange this novelty for a vanity mirror on the passenger sun visor – but that’s just me (and every woman who rides shotgun in a car).
Customers will have a choice of five colours: silver metallic, attitude black, nebula blue metallic and spicy scarlet. The fifth option is platinum white pearl that will cost an additional RM400. A five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty accompanies each purchase.
Estimated pricing starts at RM90,000 on-the-road without insurance for the base 1.5E, while the range-topping 1.5G (which we tested) goes for RM96,000.
Pros:
- The responsive handling on all terrain.
- The powerful air conditioning which managed to cool down the interior in mere minutes. Langkawi was experiencing a heatwave at the time of our test drive. The dual aircon vents in the back is a plus for passenger comfort.
- The interior trim with its modern and sleek dashboard, large touchscreen display that provides easy access to all the car’s features and functions is attractive and feels luxurious.
- The safety features are perhaps the most impressive aspect of this new Vios. From the advanced airbag systems (there are now six) to the sophisticated collision detection and prevention technologies, this car is built to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
- The car feels solid – doors give a satisfying ‘thwunk’ when you close it. This impression adds to a feeling of cocooned safety inside the car.
- Ample legroom for backseat passengers.
- Wireless phone charging inside the centre console box and three USB charging ports.
- Six cup/bottle holders.
Cons:
- Like many new models from different manufacturers, this car does NOT come with a spare tyre, but a tyre repair kit. The flip side of that means you have extra hidden storage in the already ample boot space.
- The backrest does not fold down.
- There is no vanity mirror on the front passenger sun visor! (Hello? Why not?)
Overall, the all-new Toyota Vios is sleek, powerful, and packed with features that will make it one of the most advanced cars for its segment on the road today. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, or just looking for a reliable and stylish ride, the Vios may just exceed your expectations in every way.
If you’re looking for a car that can handle winding roads and uphill terrain with ease, this car’s superb handling will make it a top pick for anyone wanting a smooth and powerful ride in challenging driving conditions.
On steep uphill climbs, such as the one we tested on Gunung Raya, the Vios’s advanced traction control system ensures that the wheels maintain grip on the road, even in wet or slippery conditions. And when navigating tight corners, the Vios’s nimble handling and precise steering make it easy to manoeuvre with confidence.
In short, the Vios is a very responsive car. The car’s suspension and steering systems are top-notch, providing a smooth and responsive ride that keeps you in control at all times.
This all-new Vios was a joy to drive in Langkawi. I’m sure it will prove itself on anything the road throws your way on other Malaysian roads and highways. This car is expected to be a game changer in the B segment and a top seller yet again. – The Vibes, March 19, 2023
