2019 Toyota Vios: Hits and misses

Toyota Vios has been a popular car not only in Malaysia but in various other markets as well. In some the markets, it’s sold as the Toyota Yaris sedan. To keep up the popularity of Vios flourishing, Toyota Malaysia launched the 2019 model in the country earlier this year. We saw this coming as the 2019 Toyota Vios was showcased at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) 2018 which took place in November last year.

The 2019 Toyota Vios price starts at RM 77,200 for the base model and it rises up to RM 87,300 for the range-topping variant. In total, there are three variants available in Malaysia - 1.5 J, 1.5 E, and 1.5 G. Toyota has added a host of new features in the 2019 Vios making it more promising. So, did Toyota has a win here? Let’s find out by discussing a few of the Vios’ hits and misses.

Toyota Vios hits

Looks

Yes, the new Vios continues to look very similar to its predecessor and the Yaris hatchback, but it still is a stylish car. Isn’t it? The kind of pull it creates in its vicinity is amazing. It doesn’t matter from where you look at it, you'll end up looking at it for longer than you’d expect.

The 2019 Vios features large and sharp-looking headlamps which cover a lot of front fascia. They are one of the major attractive elements of the car. The front bumper is more stylish now and gets a lot of sharp lines. There’s also a body kit that just makes the Vios look sportier.

We like the placement of the LED daytime running lights in the new Vios. These are located on the bumper and are complemented by black garnishing of the radiator grille. The side profile of the car is perhaps the most mundane part. Not that it is boring, but when you compare it with the rest of the package, then it is. The only good thing that tries to keep things busy here is the set of stylish alloy wheels. And maybe the side skirts.

Moving to the rear end of the 2019 Toyota Vios, we’re greeted with large tail lights. These complement the large headlamps nicely. We also like the rear boot-lid mounted spoiler. It adds a bit of sportiness to the rear view of the car.

Interior

Just like the outside, the interior of the 2019 Vios is a bit similar to that of a few other Toyota cars like Lexus NX and Corolla Altis. We are not complaining, just saying. The cabin is a nice place to be in as it offers a generous amount of space. The seats are quite comfortable. Toyota has included a 6.8-inch touch screen infotainment system that supports USB, HDMI, MP3, AUX, and Bluetooth. The instrument cluster is also new and looks modern and sporty. There is also a fully digital AC control system, paddle shifters, illuminated door sill scuff plates, and a dashcam.

Engine

Toyota didn’t change the powertrain of the updated car. The 2019 Toyota Vios specs continue to show the same 1.5-litre engine that produces 107 PS of peak power at 6000 rpm and generates 140 Nm of max torque at 4200 rpm. As far as transmission is concerned, there’s only a single option available - a 7-speed CVT Shiftmatic gearbox.

Safety features

We appreciate Toyota keeping safety as one of the top priorities while designing the new 2019 Vios. We get 7 airbags in the car that come as standard in all the three variants. There are many active safety features like Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) & Traction Control (TRC), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Front Digital Video Recorder (DVR), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD & BA, and Parking Sensor.

Toyota Vios misses

Looks

Yes, we know. We really like the new Vios and we think it looks great. However, the fact that it is so much similar to its predecessor and the Yaris hatchback, would turn off some people. For them, Toyota could have done a better to give the 2019 Vios a real update, which is kind of true but it’s alright.

Lack of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

This is something that Toyota should’ve addressed. In today’s age, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay should come as standard in cars like the Vios. Things are only going to move forward from this point, and we’re going to see more involvement and integration of smartphones with our cars. So, providing Android Auto and Apple CarPlay would keep things foolproof for the next few years.

Engine and transmission

Toyota played safe by providing the same 1.5-litre engine in the 2019 Vios. We’re not saying that it’s a bad engine. It’s one of Toyota’s trustworthy powertrains and we understand why the automaker went ahead and decided to stick to it in the new Vios. However, we would have liked to see a more powerful engine option. Also, there’s no manual transmission available even as an option. Okay, there are paddle shifters for the enthusiasts, but still.

So, these were some of the hits and misses of the 2019 Toyota Vios. Let us know what do you think about the new car and share your hits and misses about it.