New Toyota Vios

The new Vios is a huge leap from the outgoing model. Otherwise known as "a Yaris with a butt", this car will certainly be on the choice list of those looking for an entry level car packed with features, spacious interior, good engineering and responsive VVT-i engine and with that popular T oval badge.

Initial launch price may seem a little high at $53k but once you see it, you will find it is worth the price tag. Think back when the previous Vios was just launched. It was almost $70k. That still pales in comparison to the Soluna which cost another $10-$15k more back in the 90s when the COE prices were above the $30k mark.

So how will the new Corolla Altis look like when it makes it's grand appearance some time later this year or perhaps next year? My guess will be that it might be even more spacious than this just-launched Vios but not as huge as the Camry which is on my wish list!!! Initial pictures of the new Altis look like a 'shrunk Camry' which is not surprising. Carmakers nowadays make their complete line-up look similar to retain that coporate identity. Think of the BM 3 & 5 series, Merc C & E class, Volvo S80, S60 & S40. Even the Ford Mondeo & Focus do not differ much. Mazda 2,3 & 6 too. Honda Odyssey & Stream, Nissan Latio and Cefiro.....I could go on and on......

Let's get back to reality. The blackaltis is good enough!!