Toyota has confirmed that it will hold the world premiere for the 2023 Wigo small hatchback this month, with Malaysia as the selected maiden market.
Malaysia's Perodua unleashed teaser images of its upcoming all-new Axia model, which the Toyota Wigo will be based on
Finally entering its second generation, the latest Wigo will be introduced as the all-new Axia under Malaysia’s Perodua badge, breaking away from the Japanese automaker’s tradition of debuting releases in developing markets either as a Toyota or Daihatsu.
Perodua released teaser images of the upcoming model, now underpinned by the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform. The snapshots show LED headlamps, DRLs, and fog lamps for the exterior accompanied by plenty of sharp angles, suggesting that the new Wigo’s aesthetics could be inspired by its Raize sibling. Even the door handles will be upgraded, complemented by power-folding mirrors.
There are hardly any details as far as the interior is concerned, but Perodua confirms that the model will be equipped with a 7-inch TFT display serving as the instrument cluster. This will be accompanied by a standalone 9-inch display audio touchscreen on the dashboard.
Initial specs hint at enhanced onboard tech, better safety, and a more efficient powertrain
Among the anticipated safety features on the upcoming all-new Wigo/Axia are six airbags (comprising driver, passenger, side, and curtain inflators) and Perodua’s Smart Drive Assist function, the latter likely taking the form of Toyota Safety Sense.
The driver-assist kit is believed to place the new model in a position to score five stars in ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash tests. These are in addition to standard fare such as anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and stability control. Hill-start assist will also make an appearance.
The Wigo is currently on its first generation with two facelifts
Despite the shift to a new platform, there are few changes expected as far as the powertrain is concerned. The 1.0-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine on the outgoing version will likely be carried over, reportedly mated to a Dual-mode CVT that is rumored to replace the standard 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions. Perodua claims that the new Axia/Wigo can reach 27.4 kilometers on a single liter of fuel.
When the all-new Perodua Axia breaks cover within the month, how long do you think it will take before its Toyota Wigo counterpart will reach our shores?
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