Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) is standard for both Vios and Yaris variants except the 1.5J variants are offered as optional. This system uses GPS/GSM to track the location of the car at all times so if it is stolen, recovery by the police can be made easier and more likely. It can also monitor and record vehicle speeds and other operating conditions, with data sent by email to a designated user via mobile app.

Considering today’s active lifestyles where people carry mobile phones and other devices, a number of storage spaces have been provided around the cabin for front and rear occupants. Besides the deep console box between the front seats, there are also cupholders and the spacious door pockets are large enough to take water bottles as well. The cupholders have LED lighting inside, adding a touch of class.

To recharge or power mobile phones, there are two 2.1A USB ports provided as well as a wireless charger [offered on optional basis]. A conventional 12V socket is also available for powering other devices or as an additional recharging point.

To further assist the driver, Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) is now offered in all variants except the 1.5J. This system consists of a Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA) which can be switched off if the driver does not require them.

PCS constantly monitors the road ahead and if a vehicle is detected and there is a possibility of a collision, the driver will receive a warning. If no action is taken to reduce speed, the brakes will be automatically activated to reduce the risk of a collision.

To refresh the design, Toyota stylists have strengthened visual presence with a new bumper design that is bolder and gives the front a wide stance look. The lighting units on the latest Yaris and Vios are now LED headlamps with LED integrated Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) as well as LED fog lights.

Alloy rims with different sizes, depending on the variant, are fitted and have designed oriented towards sportiness.

The interior retains an elegant image with Optitron meters for all variants, except the 1.5J. Optitron meters were first used in Lexus luxury models and have advanced lighting technology for sharpness and clarity under all lighting conditions. The instrument panel includes a 4.2-inch Full Colour Multi Information Display (MID) using a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) screen.

With LDA, when the car deviates from its lane unintentionally, an alert is shown on Multi Information Display (MID) with an accompanying buzzer sound. This will prompt the driver to take corrective action to bring the car back into its correct position in the lane.

Other features added to the new Yaris and Vios are an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system that automatically activates during emergency braking, and a Rear Seatbelt Reminder to help ensure that rear passengers abide by the law. An ISOFIX point with a tether anchor is also provided for installing a compatible child seat, also required by law for small children (since the beginning of 2020).

Wits its energy-absorbing, high-strength body structure, the latest Vios and Yaris are rated the maximum of 5 stars by ASEAN NCAP. Standard features across the range include 7 SRS airbags and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Additionally, all the variants also come with ABS and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) as well as Brake Assist (BA). Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) is also a standard feature and helps in preventing the car from rolling backwards when moving off on a steep slope.

Also new is the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system has been upgraded from 2D to 3D type. This is supplemented by a rear view camera and parking sensors. There are also Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic alert (RCTA) systems, increasing driver awareness of other vehicles in the surroundings.

The Aerokit offered as optional, enhances the looks of the car and the latest kit has a restyled front bumper to match the new looks. While a front Digital Video Recorder (DVR) is installed as standard for the Vios & Yaris except the 1.5J variants, there is also the option of adding a rear DVR. All items are installed at UMWT’s own accessory centre adjacent to the plant. Installation is professionally done and proper colour-matching is assured.

The new Yaris and Vios are now available for viewing, testing and purchase at the showrooms of all Toyota dealerships and UMWT branches nationwide. For more information, the public can visit toyota.com.my or call the Toyota freephone line 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).

Race-Inspired: Vios Gazoo Racing Sport

Top of the new Vios range is the GR Sport variant, the very first locally-engineered model to wear the Gazoo Racing Sport badge following the GR Supra and GR Yaris.

Developed from the experience and technical knowledge accrued from three seasons of UMW Toyota Motor's Vios Challenge street racing series, the Vios GR Sport is assembled locally at UMWT's new plant in Bukit Raja, Klang.

The Vios GR-S sports an aggressive aerokit that comprises of a sculpted front bumper reminiscent of the GR Yaris, rear bumper fitted with a diffuser, a blacked out boot spoiler, side skirts and blacked out side mirrors. At each corner sits bespoked and blacked-out 17” inch alloy wheels wrapped with 205/45R17 low profile tyres. It is offered with only two signature colours: Platinum White Pearl and Red Mica Metallic.

Engineered with sports-tuned suspension for both increased handling and confidence in high speed as well as comfort, Vios GR-S' Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is programmed with a sports mode and offers paddle shifters for the driver to manually select between 10 virtual ratios.

Interior of the Vios GR-S is detailed by black with red stitching suede and leather wrapped sports seats, embossed GR logo on the head rests, a three-spoke leather steering wheel, leather shift lever knob, and GR embossed floor carpets. The engine start button is printed with a GR logo whilst the Optitron meter gets red hues with GR animation upon start up on the 4.2" multi-info display.