The Toyota Vios may be a best-seller as far as our local market is concerned. However, the automaker is inching closer to debuting the current model’s successor for the 2023 model year, with another reported sighting of the rumored all-new Vios undergoing testing on Thai roads.
The same car previously sighted now wears a new camouflage [Image: Auto Life Thailand]
Motoring website Auto Life Thailand reveals that the upcoming new iteration of the subcompact sedan was spotted in its camouflaged glory roaming the streets. Compared to the previous sighting in May when the mule was draped in black, this time the car sported a black, white, and gray pattern, extending even to the alloy wheels.
Auto Life Thailand is referring to the new model as the Yaris ATIV, consistent with reports that the Vios name will be dropped as far as the Thai market is concerned. This is supposedly in line with Toyota’s plan to unify it with Yaris versions sold in other markets.
Apart from the name change, the 2023 model will be underpinned by a new platform that accommodates two engine options. The base power unit is speculated to be a 1.2-liter inline-4 engine with dual variable valve timing, rated at 92 horsepower and 109 Nm of torque, paired with a Super CVT-i transmission.
A 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine with electric motor will reportedly be standard on the flagship variant
Meanwhile, the flagship variant is expected to pack a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder Dynamic Force engine paired with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor. This hybrid setup delivers a total of 116 horsepower and 120 Nm of torque, with an e-CVT transmission routing power to the front wheels.
The decision to include hybrid power is seen as an indication of Toyota’s push to promote the electrified powertrain across its lineup. This resulted from adjusted excise taxes in Thailand, which raised tariffs on standard combustion vehicles that either do not meet CO2 emissions standards, are not compatible with alternative fuels, or have high fuel consumption.
Toyota is expected to launch the 2023 Vios by August this year, with no word yet on whether this will include other markets such as the Philippines.
Spot more developments on upcoming models at Philkotse.com.