Toyota’s workhorse is set to get yet another update today, as the Japanese auto giant will reveal the facelift of its C-segment sedan, the Etios. Notably, its hatchback sibling, the Liva, will get the same set of updates as well.
The Looks
The Etios retains its inoffensive styling with the update. Toyota has thrown in a few updates to keep the package fresh, but there’s nothing major to talk about. It continues to get the friendly Toyota face, albeit with a new grille and a new bumper. Usage of chrome is slightly subdued now, and the new face looks quite upmarket compared to the outgoing iteration. While there are no updates to the side profile, the rear houses a new bumper and a slab of chrome for that touch of premiumness.
The Cabin
No major updates here either, as the Etios gets a grey-ivory colour combo for the dash. The layout is identical too, which means the instrument cluster continues to be centrally mounted and you get two vertically stacked air vents right below it. The cluster itself is different, though, and features a digital tachometer and a speedometer. Other features, including a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering with mounted controls, a 2DIN music system and the manual air-conditioning are carried over as is. We expect the Etios to be no different in terms of space and occupant comfort. A few feel-good features – such as all four power windows, electrically foldable wing mirrors, a rear armrest and a folding rear seat for additional cargo – have made their way into the update. That said, we are slightly bummed that Toyota isn’t offering the all-digital instrument cluster and the touchscreen audio unit like it does for overseas markets.
The Drive
Both vehicles carry forward their existing 1.2-litre and 1.5-litre petrol motors, and share the current 1.4-litre diesel as well. While the petrol motors make 80PS and 90PS, respectively, the diesel is good for 68PS. It remains to be seen if ARAI mileage claims have gone up or not.
The Rivals
While the Etios sedan goes up against the likes of the Renault Scala and the Nissan Sunny, the Liva hatchback will rival the Nissan Micra, the Renault Pulse, the Hyundai Grand i10 and the Maruti Suzuki Swift.
That’s all you need to know about the updated Etios twins. We will be driving them soon; so do stay tuned for an in-depth review. Do let us know what you think of the updated Etios and the Liva through the comments section below.
