The 2016 Toyota Vios has gotten more than a (minimal) cosmetic upgrade and an additional variant. There are now 6 trims to choose from:
1.5 TRD Sportivo with CVT RM 96,400 1.5 GX with CVT (new variant) RM 92,800 1.5 G with CVT RM 89,800 1.5 E with CVT RM 83,900 1.5 J with CVT RM 79,800
1.5 J with 5-speed Manual RM 76,500
The Vios now comes with a new engine and transmission that gets it EEV (Energy Efficient Vehicle) certification. The biggest change is the 1.5-liter 2NR-FE engine, replacing the old 1NZ-FE, and now features Dual VVT-i with variable valves on the exhaust side; previous engine only had variable valves on the intake side.
Mated to a 7-speed CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with torque converter instead of the old 4-speed automatic, Toyota claims the new powertrain gives 18% better fuel economy. The improved fuel economy comes with a small sacrifice on power – 107 PS and 140 Nm versus 109 PS and 141 Nm, but response from the improved engine and the Altis-derived CVT (with Sport Sequential Shiftmatic mode) should negate that. An Eco Indicator on the instrument cluster lights up to aid efficient driving.
Vios 1.5G Interior
In terms of safety, Toyota has made VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) available in all variants. Other safety features include ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, 2 front airbags, ISOFIX and a knee brace below the dashboard to prevent the driver’s legs from injury.
The exterior remains nearly identical save for the mid-bumper LED daytime running lights for all variants. The new 1.5GX variant has a new aerokit which is available as an option for the 1.5E and 1.5J; this variant also comes with 15″ alloy wheels. The Vios TRD Sportivo also receives a new aerokit design with blackened grille. Additionally, the Vios TRD Sportivo, 1.5GX and 1.5G are fitted with projector headlights but all variants get a manual leveling feature, as well as smart entry and push button start.
All variants but the 1.5E and 1.5J get leather upholstery. The top 4 variants are fitted with a DVD-AVX 2-DIN head unit with a 6.8″ touchscreen with voice control, DVD player and reverse camera view while the 1.5J gets a 2-DIN unit with Bluetooth connectivity. Other standard kit includes powered retractable door mirrors with integrated turn signals, rear center armrest and acoustic glass for the windscreen and side windows for a quieter cabin. The engine cover has also been improved to reduce noise and vibration.
Vios 1.5GX Interior
Vios 1.5 TRD Sportivo Interior
The range-topping Vios 1.5 TRD Sportivo features a new front bumper spoiler, scuff plate on all door sills, exclusive carpet mats, a sporty meter panel with Multi Information Display (MID) and leather wrapped steering wheel with red stitching. The seats are also finished in black and red stitching with perforated combination leather.
Meanwhile, the other Vios variants (except 1.5E & 1.5J) now comes with Toyota Premium Security & Solar Film developed and manufactured using nanotechnology methods. The film complies with JPJ regulations and is certified by PUSPAKOM. The film also includes a security layer to delay grass breakage besides providing protection from the sun.
Vios buyers can choose to upgrade their cars with the following optional accessories:
- 5-piece aerokit for 1.5E & 1.5J
- DVD-AVN with 7-inch touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, GPS navigation and reverse camera
- DVD-AVX for 1.5J only – 2-DIN 6.8″ touchscreen, voice recognition and reverse camera
- Window tint for 1.5E & 1.5J – Toyota Essential Solar Film (7-year warranty) OR Toyota Premium Security & Solar Film
All Toyota Vios are covered by a 5-year factory warranty with unlimited mileage.
Toyota Vios 1.5 TRD Sportivo:
Keyword: Toyota Vios Now EEV Certified