It’s EverywhereIt’s Everywhere
02/17/2009 It’s such a common sight on the road these days. Everywhere you look, you’ll see a Toyota Vios, either running on the road or parked somewhere. Most of these vehicles are company owned, “for hire,” and of course there are those that are privately owned. Oftentimes you see first-time drivers using the Vios. Some Toyota Vios are in pristine condition, and some with their share of battle scars like dangling side mirrors, dents and the like. What seems to be the attraction? Fuel efficiency, reliability, affordability and not to mention the Toyota name itself are key factors why these vehicles are popular. I tested one to see for myself and was given the opportunity to drive the highest level variant — the Toyota Vios 1.5G 4-speed automatic. With a 1500cc DOHC (1NZ-FE) in line 4 cylinder, 16-valve EFI engine with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), I found this vehicle to be economical. At times I would tap on the fuel gauge, since I kept waiting for the needle to drop and couldn’t believe I still had fuel after the trips I made. Handling was good for normal day to day driving. For high speed turns and quick maneuvers though, under-steer occurs — but this is a situation where an alert and calm driver can get out of, with a single breath. Safety features include dual SRS airbags, GOA protection and an impact absorbing body. The 4-wheel ABS (anti-lock brake system) with EBD (electronic brake force distribution) is reliable when you need to brake hard. The interior leather seats of the Toyota Vios are comfortable though on hot days when the vehicle is parked under the sun, it would be advisable to open the windows or doors to let the heat out before sitting. The air-conditioning easily cools the interior after a while. The standard audio system from Fujitsu Ten is adequate for listening pleasure. The interior instrument panel which shows the MID (Multi information display) and optitron meters takes some getting used to since it is located at the center of the dashboard. Generally, the instrument panel is at the driver’s side, so I was inclined to look at this side first before looking at the center. Night driving is not a hardship though with the multi-reflector headlamps and fog lamps which both emitted good density. I also tested the Toyota Vios 1.5G M/T. It has the same amenities as the 1.5G A/T with the exemption of the leather interior. On turns and when overtaking I feel more in control with the M/T. The Toyota Vios’ exterior and interior amenities, comfort and safety features, fuel efficiency and performance, as well as its accessories and parts availability all contribute to the reasons why we see a lot of them on the road. One major and basic fact is that people simply trust the brand — Toyota.  Back to top
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