Toyota Vios
The Toyota Vios is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese manufacturer Toyota, primarily for markets in the Asia-Pacific region since 2002.
Along with the compact Corolla and mid-size Camry, the Vios serves as the replacement to the Tercel, which filled the Asian subcompact or B-segment class in the region. From 2005, the Vios was also marketed alongside its hatchback complement known as the Yaris in many countries globally. The second generation Vios is known as the Belta in Japan and Yaris sedan in the United States, Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, the Middle East and Australia.
The "Vios" name is derived from the Latin word "vio", meaning "to move forward".
First generation (XP40; 2002)
The first generation Vios, codenamed XP40, was assembled in Thailand's Toyota Gateway Plant in Gateway City, Amphoe Plaeng Yao, Chachoengsao Province, as part of a cooperative project between Thai engineers and Toyota's Japanese designers.In Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan markets, the first generation Vios is equipped with a 1.5 L 1NZ-FE engine with VVT-i. The smaller 1.3 L 2NZ-FE engine is offered in the Philippines. In China, the Vios comes with the 1.3 L 8A-FE and 1.5 L 5A-FE. Trim levels for Southeast Asian markets include J, E, G and S, while the DLX, GL, GLX and GLXi are offered in China.
The first generation Vios was adapted from the Platz with modified body panels and portions of the car feature design cues from the E120 series Corolla. Like the Vitz and Platz, the Vios features instrument panel mounted on the top center of the dashboard.
In September 2005, the Vios received minor cosmetic changes to its exterior and interior for the 2006 model year. Updates included the front bumper, headlights and tail lights, redesigned alloy rims, speedometer dial design, and added a console box in the interior.
The first generation Vios was campaigned in the Touring Car Championships in Indonesia and One Make Races in Thailand.
Taxicab versions marketed in Indonesia have less equipment and is rebadged as the Limo. This is not to be confused with certain taxis with the same name in Thailand, which use Corollas.
Markets
China
In China, the Vios was produced from 2004 to 2008 equipped with the 1.3 L 8A-FE and 1.5 L 5A-FE engines paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The 5A-FE engine was replaced by the 2SZ-FE engine and 3SZ-VE engine in 2006. Trim levels consist of the DLX, GL, GLX and GLXi trims.Philippines
In the Philippines, the Vios came in J, E and G trim levels. The base 1.3 J included a 2NZ-FE VVT-i engine, 5-speed manual and 13-inch steel wheels, introduced in 2005. The mid-level 1.3 E is same as the J trim, but with 5-speed manual, alloy wheels and power features. The 1.5 G is the top-of-the-line model, included a 1NZ-FE VVT-i engine and available with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission and a central instrumental digital display.Singapore
In Singapore, the Vios came in E and S trim levels and powered by a 1.5 L 1NZ-FE engine. The top-of-the-line S trim comes with only a 4-speed automatic transmission. It has a digital speedometer, silver steering wheel trims, foldable wing mirrors, foglamps, chrome door handles and boot lid garnish. The E trim was available in either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission and has a conventional speedometer.Malaysia
In Malaysia, the specs and engines are generally similar as Singapore, the only difference is that in Malaysia, it is sold in E and G trim levels and comes with 15-inch alloy wheels and mudguards, while Singapore versions do not.Taiwan
In Taiwan, the Vios comes with a 1.5 L 1NZ-FE engine in J and E trim levels. The first generation Vios was sold and produced until the first quarter 2014.Vios Turbo
A "Turbo" variant of the first generation Vios was made available only in Thailand, which only 600 cars were produced. A turbocharged 1.5 L engine with an air-to-air intercooler produces with light boost at 6,400 rpm with of torque. It can accelerate from 0– in 8.1 seconds. About 600 units were produced. Standard on the Vios Turbo are a functional scoop on its hood, wrap-around body kits, stiffer springs, firmer shock-absorbers and 16-inch alloy wheels. Colours available were red, black and silver. The transmission ratio and differential ratios were based on that of a MR-S.Second generation (XP90; 2007)
The second generation Vios is essentially a rebadged Japanese-market Belta sedan with varying trim levels and equipment sold in Southeast Asian countries between April 2007 and March 2013.Third generation (XP150; 2013)
The third generation Vios for the Asian market was unveiled on March 25, 2013 at the 34th Bangkok International Motor Show in Thailand. Toyota aimed to export the third generation Vios as a global model for emerging markets. The car was sold in Thailand shortly after, and from the second quarter in Asia. Toyota Motor Philippines announced that the local variant of the Vios will be manufactured in Santa Rosa, Laguna.The exterior was enlarged, but keeping the same width as before. Its styling outline was later followed by the XP150 series Yaris hatchback for the Southeast Asian market. The speedometer position is no longer mounted on the centre of the dashboard. The Yaris sedan is marketed in Africa, South America, Caribbean and the Middle East.
In early 2018, the Yaris ATIV-based Vios was available as a facelift instead of the XP150 series-based facelifted Vios sold exclusively in China and Thailand. The Yaris ATIV-based Vios expected to be sold as a global model, is currently sold in most Asian countries as a 2018 model. The facelifted Vios-based Yaris ATIV has a more differentiated styling.
The XP150 series Vios has not been offered in the United States, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. The second generation sedan was sold in these countries as the Yaris, but it was dropped in late 2011 due to lackluster sales, with only the XP130 model being offered from the 2012 model year. Yaris sedans subsequently sold in North America from 2015 are based on the Mazda2 and produced for Toyota by Mazda.
In Mexico and certain South American countries, the XP150 series Vios was sold as the Yaris Sedán. From early 2018, it has been replaced by a version of the facelifted Asian-market Yaris ATIV, marketed under the Yaris Sedán name as a lower-priced alternative to the more upmarket Mazda2-based Yaris R.
It is campaigned in One Make Races in Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand.
Markets
Thailand
The third generation Vios was launched in four trim levels: J, E, G and S. The J and E trims were offered in either manual or automatic transmission. A TRD Sportivo model was also introduced to the market.Some additions include a push start system and smart entry, an Eco meter for the automatic models and automatic air conditioners with climate control for the G and S trims.
From 2016 in Thailand, the 1NZ-FE VVT-i engine was replaced by the flex-fuel 2NR-FBE 1.5 L Dual VVT-i engine. The four-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a continuously variable transmission with seven-speed mode. The five-speed manual was dropped from the lineup. The safety kit has been given an upgrade. VSC stability control on top of the usual ABS with EBD was added, and brake assist is now available across the range.
An "Exclusive" version was introduced for 2016, to replace TRD Sportivo model. It includes redesigned 15-inch alloy wheels, a bodykit integrated with LED daytime running lights, black leather seats, piano black steering wheel and gearlever trim as well as a T-Connect infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity. An option of White Crystal Pearl or Attitude Black Mica is only available for the Vios Exclusive.
The facelifted Vios was launched in Thailand on January 21, 2017. The car uses the same front fascia as Chinese market version. The facelifted models features redesigned 15- and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Trim levels offered include J, E, G and S. These were later categorised as Entry, Mid, and High trim levels from 2018.
The Thai-market Vios is powered by the 2NR-FBE engine, and all models come with CVT and have standard TRC and VSC. The Mid and High models also come with rear disc brakes, rear view camera, LED Daytime Running Light. Smart entry and Start/Stop engine push button are for the top-of-the-line model.
Singapore
The Vios was first unveiled in Singapore in May 2013, two months after its official showcase. It is available in two trim levels: E and G variants. Both are equipped with an automatic transmission. A fleet of manual E and J trim models are used by ComfortDelgro Driving Centre as manual transmission training cars, but it is not otherwise sold to the public.The E trim features a touchscreen infotainment system with DVD/CD/USB/iPod/Bluetooth, keyless entry, dual SRS airbags as standard. The E grade has a standard switch air conditioning unit and features multi-reflector headlamps. On the other hand, the G grade comes with air conditioner with auto climate control, projector headlamps, fog lamps and rear 15-inch disc brakes. The G model also adds multi-function steering controls, 60:40 split foldable rear seats, a rear console armrest and touchscreen telematics navigation system. Black-toned leather seats is optional on both models. In mid 2015, both E and G trims had been updated with 16-inch rims with all 15-inch disc brakes for the front and rear as standard.
In January 2017, the Vios was reintroduced to the lineup with the newer 2NR-FE engine and continuously variable transmission with 7-speed sport sequential mode and was available for a short period of time until April 2017.
On December 14, 2017, the Vios was reintroduced once more; this time as a rebadged Yaris ATIV sedan for the 2018 model year. The Vios for the Singapore market is offered in E and G model grades with only automatic CVT with a 1.5 L 2NR-FE engine. Buyers of the Vios can choose between Ivory or Black interior. For the G model, it uses cross stitching on the leather seats. Safety features such as 7 airbags, Hill-start Assist, Smart entry with push start, reverse backup camera and LED fog lamps are standard items across the lineup.
Brunei
Alongside Singapore, the Vios was also introduced to Brunei since the first generation and has been one of the best selling car in the country. The J and E trim levels are only available with either 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmissions in Brunei.Between the initial production sourced from Thailand and Indonesia, the Bruneian spec third generation Vios and Yaris hatchback were fully imported from Indonesia.
The car comes with only double-din audio head unit, 2NR-FE Dual VVT-i engine, remote key lock and black with blue stitching fabric seats. However, headlamp bulb adjuster is not included. In its model update in 2016, black-painted rims and 'V-REV' optional bodykits were added.
The facelifted Vios as based on Yaris ATIV was launched in May 2018 alongside with the facelifted Yaris hatchback. However, the Vios was once again used the CD/AUX/USB/radio double-din audio head unit system, blue-black fabric and immobilizer remote key, to which is offered from the local distributors.
The updated features of the Vios includes daytime running lights, Optitron speedometer, 7 airbags, redesigned 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, multi-function steering wheel with audio switch controls, 6 speakers, reverse sensors, hill-start assist control, traction control, paddle shifters and comes with optional 7 colours, and the rimcaps and alloy wheels were available.
Trim levels of the Yaris ATIV-based facelifted Vios are available in 1.5 E automatic transmission and 1.5 J manual transmission in Brunei.
In early 2019, updates to the Vios includes redesigned alloy wheels, optional bodykits and 7" inch touchscreen interface with rear-parking camera was available.
Malaysia
The third generation of the Vios was launched in Malaysia on October 2, 2013, and is sold in five different trim choices, similar to the previous generation.There was also a TRD Sportivo variant similar to the previous generation which comes with TRD cosmetic parts and an all round bodykit featuring daytime running lights on the front bumper and 15-inch TRD wheels. The bodykit is optional on J, E and G trims.
In January 2015, Smart Entry and Push Start were made standard across the entire range. The door handles and rear garnish trim on the 1.5J and 1.5E received a chrome finish. The 1.5G model received an all-black leather interior, replacing the previous beige colour scheme. It also added door sill scuff plates – also standard on the 1.5E version. Further upgrades on the 1.5G variant were also the blue-coloured front footwell illumination while the range-topping TRD Sportivo model features a similar setup, albeit with an amber-coloured setup. In-car entertainment comes courtesy of two optional platforms. The DVD-AVX system increased the screen to 6.1 inches with USB, SD, AUX and Bluetooth along with a reverse camera. The premium DVD-AVN option came with a redesigned layout, a 7-inch touchscreen system, WiFi, HDMI, Bluetooth, voice recognition and a reverse camera.
In September 2016, the third generation Vios received additional features for the Malaysian market. Updates included an additional trim level dubbed "GX" which is positioned between the G variant and the TRD Sportivo variant and comes with a bodykit, smoked projector headlights, a dark chrome grille, two-tone wheels and black-and-tan combination leather seats. The 1NZ-FE VVT-i engine was replaced by the 2NR-FE 1.5 L Dual VVT-i engine across the lineup and the four-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a continuously variable transmission with seven-speed mode. Vehicle stability control and traction control were standard across the lineup.
In April 2017, the third generation Vios received new additional features once more. Updates for the entire range included a dashcam becoming a standard feature across the range and the addition of a USB port in front of the gearlever. For the 1.5E, 1.5G, 1.5GX and 1.5 TRD Sportivo variant, a panoramic view monitor and four exterior mounted cameras became standard and for the 1.5G, 1.5GX and 1.5 TRD Sportivo variant, automatic folding mirrors became standard.
In July 2017, a "Sports Edition" variant was announced. It is based on the 1.5J variant. Changes included the addition of a rear spoiler, addition of an all-round bodykit, addition of "SE" emblems and badges, 15-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels finished in black, black and red stripes on the exterior, amber instead of blue footwell lighting, sports seats, unique floor mats and unique gearknob, illuminated scuff plates and sports suspensions which lowered the ride height by 27mm.
In January 2018, the third generation Vios was updated again for the Malaysian market. Updates for the entire range was a shark fin antenna and the footwell lighting being white opposed to blue. The 1.5 E, 1.5 G, 1.5 GX and 1.5 TRD Sportivo variants got illuminated steel scuff plates and a DVD-AVX entertainment system. The G, GX and TRD Sportivo trim levels received front parking sensors. The base E and mid-level G still come with the older style bumper, whole the GX and TRD Sportivo each come with exclusively designed fascias. The GX retained the standard bumpers but added the full body kits similar to the pre-facelift TRD Sportivo. Inside the GX has 2-tone brown and black leather seats. The facelifted TRD Sportivo comes with redesigned front bumper with wider black accent and openings, while the interior has black leather seats with red stitching.
The facelifted Vios based on the Yaris ATIV sedan and was launched on January 24, 2019. The GX and TRD Sportivo was discontinued, leaving only the J, E and G in the lineup. All models have standard automatic CVT. Full body kits including front, side, and rear lower skirtings, as well as trunk spoiler are optional for all model grades. Notably different in the Malaysian models is an additional colour matching trim piece across the centre section of the front bumper. Panoramic View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are standard on the Vios E and G. All round disc brakes and leather interior are only standard in the top-of-the-line G.
Philippines
In the Philippines, the third generation Vios was introduced in July 2013 with the same 4 trim levels as the outgoing model: 1.3 Base, 1.3 J, 1.3 E, and 1.5 G.Both manual and automatic transmissions are available for the E and G spec trim levels, while the Base and J are available as manual only. The 1.3 L 2NZ-FE and 1.5 L 1NZ-FE engines as well as the 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions are carried over from the previous model.
The E trim received front fog lights, power side mirror controls, and steering wheel audio controls as standard, and the G trim adds a leather wrapped steering wheel, multi information display beneath the speedometer and additional rear disc brakes. Base, J and E trims received an all black interior while the top spec G trim gets a more luxurious black and Beige interior.
TMP made a special event for the Vios named the "Vios Cup". In 2014 and in March 2015 the Vios Cup was held at Clark International Speedway in Pampanga. In May 2015, the Vios Cup was held in Cebu City while in September 2015, the Vios Cup was held at SM Mall of Asia. To celebrate as the country's best selling sedan TMP released a limited edition variant of the Vios which commemorates its event, the Vios 1 million edition which is only offered in Alumina Jade mettalic, Orange Mica Mettalic and Blue Mica Mettalic. Equipped with a 1.5 L 1NZ-FE engine, TRD sportivo wheels, side skirt, duck tail spoiler and 1 million badge, which paved the way of adding the Alumina Jade and Blue Mica metallic colour options to the Vios in the following years before the facelifted model, and adding side skirts and duck tail spoiler to the G trim as standard.
In July 2016, the Vios received a newer engine option; the 1.3 L 1NR-FE and 1.5 L 2NR-FE engine with Dual VVT-i and are available with both 5-speed manual transmission and CVT.
Available colours are: Red Mica Metallic, Silver Metallic, Dark Brown Mica metallic, Freedom White, Orange Metallic, Blue Metallic, Black Metallic, Grey metallic, and White Pearl. In 2015 an additional variant of the Vios was added: 1.5 TRD, it receives TRD alloy wheels and TRD bodykits available in Orange Metallic, Blue Metallic or White Pearl. Additional updated colours as of 2016 are Blackish Red Mica and Alumina Jade Metallic.
The facelifted version of the Vios is based on the Yaris ATIV sedan and was launched on July 19, 2018. Trim levels for the locally built Vios are 1.3 Base, 1.3 J, 1.3 E, 1.5 G, and also the 1.3 E Prime and 1.5 G Prime which replaced the TRD Sportivo.
The Vios is offered with the choice of 1.3 L or 1.5 L engine. Transmission for either engine is 5-speed manual or a CVT with seven simulated speeds. Generally, trim levels are Base, J, E and top-of-the-line G. The base model comes with 2 SRS Airbag, the middle and high grade models have 7 SRS Airbags, Vehicle Stability Control and Hill-Start Assist Control. Daytime Running Lights, rear solid disc brakes, multi function steering switches, automatic climate control with digital display and smart keyless entry with push start are reserved for the top-of-the-line model.
The base and J are only offered with 5-speed manual transmission. The 1.3 E, 1.3 E Prime, and 1.5 G could be purchased with either manual or CVT. The sole transmission for the 1.5 G Prime is automatic CVT. Replacing the TRD model, the 1.3 E Prime and 1.5 G Prime come with all around body kits noticeably the big fog lamp housing and lower lip integrated to the front bumper, and the piano black door mirror covers.
Safety features such as ABS, 7 SRS Airbags, VSC, and HAC are standard across the range, but Daylight Running Lights, 16 inch two tone alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, Multi function steering switches, Automatic climate control AC with digital display, smart engine Start/Stop button, Eco and power response mode, paddle shifters, LED Tail lights and Power folding side mirrors are only standard in the cars with the 1.5 L engine.
In 2019, the XE was added into the lineup. Based on the J trim, the XE serves as a price leader automatic CVT equipped model and 7 inch infotainment screen that is present in the E and G trims. The XE Vios has the same exterior specs as the J with black side mirrors and door handles, no fog lights, steel wheels with hubcaps, no security car alarm and no power adjusting side mirrors. Later, the XLE was also added into the lineup. Based on the E trim, the XLE serves as a lower version of E and G trims with 5-speed manual or automatic CVT and 7 inch infotainment screen that is present also in E and G trims. The XLE version has the same features as the E trim with fog lights, power adjustable side mirrors, 15 inch alloy wheels, body colored side mirrors and door handles and has 3 SRS Airbags.
In July 2020, the facelifted Vios was released based on the Yaris ATIV design featuring a redesigned bumper with LED foglamps and the headlamp was upgraded to LED dual lenses and the Daytime Running Lamp was shifted from the bumper previously to the headlamps, it is only offered in the G model. E model to the top spec G prime received 7 airbags while the Base up to the XLE Vios only receives 3 airbags; E prime, G and G prime variants gets an additional Back-up Camera and reverse sensors as standard.
Available colours on the facelifted Vios are: Super Red, Freedom White, Thermalyte, Grayish Blue mica metallic, Alumina Jade Metallic, White Pearl, Red Mica metallic Blackish Red metallic and Black mica metallic.
Indonesia
The third generation Vios was launched for the Indonesian market on May 7, 2013 and initially it was imported from Thailand. Starting from December 2013, the Vios is assembled locally in Karawang, Indonesia to fulfill the local market, and also for export. It is the first sedan to be manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia.Two trim levels were available; the 1.5 E and 1.5 G which powered by the 1.5 L 1NZ-FE engine, paired to either 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic ECT. The more affordable E has drum rear brakes and 15 inch alloys, while the upmarket G comes with rear disc brakes and 16 inch alloys. The TRD Sportivo trim, which is based on the G trim, was launched in September 2014 at the 22nd Indonesia International Motor Show in Jakarta.
The Vios received an update on November 3, 2016 with the 1.5 L 2NR-FE engine option, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT. The G and TRD received redesigned alloy wheels, and the trunk spoiler was only installed on the TRD Sportivo.
The facelifted version of the Vios is based on the Yaris ATIV sedan and was launched on April 3, 2018. The TRD Sportivo was discontinued, leaving only the E and G in the lineup. All the locally-built models for the Indonesian market have Ivory colour interior. The top-of-the-line G has 16-inch alloy wheels, all around disc brakes, Daytime Running Lights, smart engine Start/Stop button, and automatic climate control AC. Paddle shift is exclusively for the G model with 7-speed simulated CVT.
In early 2019, the price leading E variant with manual transmission was no longer listed. Domestic sales for Vios had dropped in the recent years, and most Vios assembled by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia were for export markets.
China
The Vios in China was launched in November 2013 after its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show in April. The Vios is now only available in either 1.3 or 1.5 L engine variants with the higher end 1.6 L model dropped. The Vios for the Chinese market will still be made locally by the FAW-Toyota joint venture that also made previous generations for Vios.Both models are powered by newer Dual VVT-i engines 4NR-FE and 5NR-FE specially developed for the Chinese market.
In 2016, a facelifted hatchback version of the third generation Vios was launched exclusively in China by the FAW-Toyota joint venture. Based on the Yaris hatchback, it is known as the Vios FS. China also received the Vios-based Yaris L sedan. A 5-speed manual and CVT option are standard for both engines.
Taiwan
In Taiwan, the third generation Vios was available from the second quarter of 2014. Three models have since been available in Classic, Elegant and Luxury variants. All models use the same 1.5 L 1NZ-FE engine from the previous model.Additional features are available on top of the basic equipment in the premium variant which consists of a front/rear aero kit, smart entry system, engine push start button, smart climate control, multi-information display and piano lacquered trim.
From the second quarter of 2016, the 1NZ-FE engine was replaced by the 2NR-FE engine and a CVT. The TPMS became standard also.
In March 2018, the Yaris ATIV-based version with a refreshed exterior was launched. VSC, TRC and HAC became standard. The engine and transmission remain the same.
Vietnam
The Vios was sold in Vietnam as the Vios E, Vios E and Vios G. All have the 1.5 L engine.The facelift based on the Yaris-ATIV sedan was also available in Vietnam, the trim levels available are carried over from the pre-facelift model.
The model is the best-selling car in Vietnam continuously from 2014 to 2018, with 67,787 cars sold during the period.
Facelift
The third generation facelift model Vios was unveiled at the April 2016 Auto China show. For the facelift model, there are projector headlamps with integrated LED light guides, a wider T-shaped grille and fog lamps shifted to the lower air-dam with vertical LED DRLs affixed on the bumper, similar to that of the XV70 series Camry. At the rear, the tail lamps feature LED-type units with revised graphics and feature a thinner linking chrome boot lid bar. The facelifted model based on the XP150 series Vios with restyled bumpers is exclusive to Thailand and China.In most Asian countries, the Yaris ATIV-based Vios is sold from 2018 as a facelift model. The 1.5 L model is coded NSP151, and it is also offered in India, the Middle East and Latin American countries as the Yaris Sedan. It measures an additional 10mm in length and 30mm in width, bearing similarities to the facelifted version of the Vios.
The Yaris ATIV-based Vios is sold in Singapore, Brunei, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, the Philippines, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. In the first 6 countries, the Vios is offered with 1.5 L 2NR-FE engine, while in the last 3 countries, it only powered by the smaller 1.3 L 1NR-FE engine.
The Yaris ATIV-based Vios received a facelift in July 2020, first in the Philippines with revised bumpers with LED foglamps as standard. For the G grade, it received headlamp upgrades to LED dual lenses, the Daytime Running Lamp was shifted from the bumper to the headlamps and received gloss black foglamp inserts and gloss bottom grill fascia. Changes to the rest of the exterior and interior remained largely the same.
Safety
Asean NCAP
Gallery
Pre-facelift stylingPost-facelift styling
Post-facelift styling
Vios FS
Sales
Calendar Year | Thailand |
2014 | 47,800 |
2015 | 35,539 |
2016 | 21,180 |
2017 | 19,198 |
2018 | 9,311 |