Toyota PH proudly launches 2019 Vios with enhanced styling, amenities, and solid lineup

The stark contrast though is that unlike the Yaris, the Vios is proudly Philippine-made at TMP’s Sta. Rosa plant in Laguna. This was made possible via the government’s Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) program which TMP joined in 2016 to boost the country’s automotive industry and create more job opportunities.

Up front, visible changes to the grille, headlights, and bumper make the car look sleeker and edgier. Higher trim levels improve upon that with a set of LED daytime running lights (DRL) on the lower bumper grille for better road visibility at all times.

Changes to the side are subtle, in general. The most prominent updates here include the blacked out side mirrors, redesigned wheels (available in 14-, 15-, or 16-inch sizes), and a side skirt on the top trim levels. The rear portion, on the other hand gets a set of new look tail lights, with the addition of LEDs on more equipped variants.

Hop in, and the most noticeable update would be the layout of the dash. It’s been restyled to fit in with the modern times and to accentuate the freshness of the exterior. For starters, it beckons occupants with a black motif, accented by bits of brushed aluminum on upper trim levels.

While all variants offer fabric-upholstered seats, only the range-tipping trims get the leather-wrapped steering wheel, push-button engine start/stop, speed sensing door locks, and automatic climate control.

For entertainment, the mid and top variants get the 7-inch touch screen head unit with Weblink, AUX, and MP3. Base variants, meanwhile, come with the tried and true 2-din audio system. The good news is Bluetooth comes standard across the line, meaning even those who opt to purchase the base model would also enjoy smartphone-based sound tripping.

Notice the emphasis on trim levels and variants? That’s because TMP is offering the all-new Vios in 9 kinds, each one distinct with equipment aimed to cater to different consumer tastes. Leading the pack are the entry level variants 1.3 MT base and 1.3 J MT, trim levels ideal for fleet use. Next are the 1.3 E MT, 1.3 E CVT, 1.5 G MT, and 1.5 G CVT, targeted to those who prefer to ride with more amenities on hand. TMP also added new variants called Prime. For these, it endowed even more equipment to the 1.3 E MT Prime, 1.3 E CVT Prime, and 1.5 G CVT Prime (the all-new Vios’ top-of-the-line variant). Check out the complete price list below.

• 1.3 Base MT – P659,000
• 1.3 J MT – P685,000
• 1.3 E MT – P828,000
• 1.3 E CVT – P878,000
• 1.3 E MT Prime – P883,000
• 1.3 E CVT Prime – P933,000
• 1.5 G MT – P981,000
• 1.5 G CVT – P1,040,000
• 1.5 G CVT Prime – P1,095,000

By this time, it’s established that the all-new Vios still has 2 available engines - 1.3L and a 1.5L, all gasoline-fed and with Dual VVT-I. It’s worth noting though that on this aspect, nothing has changed. The 1.3L motor still produces 95 hp and 123 Nm of torque, all controlled via 5-speed manual or continuous variable transmission (CVT). On the other hand, the 1.5L mill which also comes with either a 5-speed manual or CVT, pumps out 106 horses with a pulling power of 140 Nm.

And now for the best part (taxi operators, take note of this) – TMP didn’t skimp on fitting the all-new Vios with loads of safety features that are STANDARD ON ALL VARIANTS. These include airbags for driver/front passenger/side/curtain side/knee, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist system, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and brake assist, child seat protection.

Those interested to take a closer look at the all-new Toyota Vios may visit TMP’s upcoming Music Festival on July 28, 2018 at Filinvest in Alabang, Muntinlupa. While you’re at it, you might as well enjoy the Festivities as the 2^nd Round of the 2018 Toyota Vios Cup will also be held there.

Photos by Randolph de Leon and Sabina Cruz