Meet the facelifted Toyota Etios. The popular choice among budget car buyers has had a nip-tuck to give it a sportier look.
The new version was unveiled in Brazil and the updated cars will make its way to South Africa early next year.
Little information is available but the photos show that the biggest changes are at the car’s front. There it features a redesigned grille with chrome detailing and black inserts, while the bumper design is new too.
The Etios also sports new, eye-catching 15-inch alloy wheels, while some new skirts and a bumper add to the body. Whereas the existing model appears on the bland side, the updates boosts the overall look of the new upgrade.
There are improvements inside too – with a re-designed steering wheel, all-black dashboard and a digital instrument cluster. Toyota has added in a new multimedia system to the mix too, while overall build quality should be better as well.
Other major improvements are Isofix child seat mounts and a three-point safety belt for the middle seat passenger.
Although no official figures are available, the Brazilian model features an updated version of the existing 1,5-litre VVT-i engine that develops more power than the older version.
According to reports, Toyota claimed to have improved the steering, ride quality and the interior’s soundproofing.
Like the current model, the updated range will include hatchback and sedan versions with a choice of manual or automatic gearboxes.
The Etios is a popular choice among budget car buyers since, as a Toyota, it offers peace of mind because of brand reliability, while it is well equipped too with all the necessary convenience, comfort, driving and safety features.
