Changing Cars: Toyota introduces new Vios and Yaris

With the Vios reigning as the number one bestselling car in the Philippines, one might expect Toyota to strive for the status quo. But Winston Churchill had a good point when he said, “to improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” Toyota seems to apply this principle.

Two days ago, Toyota introduced the new upgraded versions of the popular Vios and the stylish hatchback Yaris.

The new Yaris has a sportier look, while the new Vios is sleeker. The Vios G variant also boasts new chrome trim for the fog lamps.

Apart from aesthetic upgrades, the Vios and Yaris have been enhanced to be their best versions to date. All-new Dual VVT-I engines and Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) transmissions give both vehicles better mileage, more fuel economy, higher engine output, and decreased fuel emissions. The previous models’ 4-speed gearbox has been bolstered to a 7-speed-like sequential shift mode transmission.

Complementing the sportier look of the Yaris are sportier seats and a new dark silver face display for the audio head unit. 

The new Vios also comes in two new edgier colors—Alumina Jade Metallic and Blackish Red Mica. 

The new Toyota Vios and Toyota Yaris were unveiled to members of the media last August 22 at Salvatore Cuomo Restaurant in Bonifacio Global City. Among those present were top officials of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) led by President Satoru Suzuki, Vice Chairman Alfred Ty, Senior Executive VP David Go, VP for Marketing Yohei Murase, and Senior VP for Marketing Jose Ariel Arias.

In his speech, TMP President Suzuki noted some of Toyota’s recent milestones in the Philippines. To date, TMP’s sales have grown to 26 percent compared to the same period last year. Toyota’s plant in Sta. Rosa assembled almost 30,000 units last month—an 11 percent growth from the same period last year indicating a great demand for the Vios and Innova, which Suzuki attributes to “their exceptional quality and reliability—proudly made by the Filipino.”

It looks like more changes, more upgrades and more improvements can be expected from Toyota’s line-up as it continues to lead the car industry. As Suzuki said, “All these accomplishments are propelled by none other than our desire of continuously serving the needs of the increasing number of customers and our role and responsibility in economic growth. Toyota has long been working under the framework of passion, the philosophy of customer first and our commitment of delivering great products and services.”

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Atty. Karen Jimeno is a lawyer licensed to practice in the Philippines and New York.  She co-anchors for New Day on CNN Philippines Mondays to Fridays, 6-7:30AM.  She is also an avid motorist who incorporates different cars and her driving experiences with her professional life.