Toyota Etios

Toyota Motors launched its first and the last low-cost sedan, Etios, in the Indian market on December 1, 2010 in Bangalore. And with an unprecedented hype surrounding the three words �low cost sedan�, it is only natural that the expectations are nothing short of being sky high. With a starting price of Rs. 4.96 lac for a sedan, backed with ritzy looks and power packed performance, it�s expected to give stiff competition to other leading sedan manufacturers in the country. Etios, meaning �the origin of� might as well force, for good or for better, to explore the unchartered territory of low cost sedans for the average goers who do not want to compromise on style and performance. Touted as the �style statement in motion�, let�s explore in this review as to what features and specifications it has to offer.

Design & Comfort
The first thing to catch your attention is the smiley front of Etios. The upper and lower grille with head lamps have been put together in such a way that the car seems to be smiling at you when you look at it. The body colored bumpers, tubeless tires, chrome garnish on boot, and front fog lamps, 12 spoke alloy wheels (only in V and VX variant) add to the elegant exteriors of this simple yet stunning looking sedan. Ample legroom and headroom provide for comfortable seating. Features like power windows, cabin lights, front power outlet, audio system, rear defogger, sporty front headrest, and pillow type rear headrest further ensure a quality journey and a serene driving experience.

Engine
Toyota Etios Sedan is powered with a 1.5L 2NR-FE, 4 cylinders and 16 valves Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) that offer unmatched performance at low engine rpm. The lean engine construction design, improved anti-knocking performance, and electronic throttle control, and electronic fuel injection system add to the fuel efficiency of the engine. The Bharat IV technology that it uses results in low emissions. Further, the engine can generate a maximum power of 90 PS @ 5600 rpm and maximum torque of 132 nm @ 3000 rpm.

Safety
Toyota Etios comes with two SRS airbags to prevent head and upper torso impact to the steering wheel and dashboard at the time of collision. The impact absorbing body structure is designed to provide maximum safety to everyone on board during the collision. Apart from these, it also hosts an Electronic Brake Distribution, Anti-Lock Braking System, Immobilizer, Keyless Entry, Driver Seat Belt Warning, and Door Ajar Warning. Also, the ventilated disk brakes in front and drum brakes in the rear add up to the safety as handling and control over the vehicle becomes easier. Pretty good safety features for a low cost sedan!

Variants & Price
Toyota Etios is available in five different variants: Toyota Etios J, Toyota Etios G, Toyota Etios G safety, Toyota Etios V, and Toyota Etios VX and six different colors: Symphony Silver, Harmony Beige, Serene Bluish Silver, Vermilion Red, Celestial Black, And White. Except for Toyota Etios J, which is available only in serene bluish silver and white, all other variants are available in all six colors. The prices range from Rs. 4.96 lac to Rs. 6.86 lac, different price for each variant; Etios J being the basic one.

Technical Specifications