The countdown for the launch of the all-new Toyota Vios in Malaysia has started. Following past practice, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced that customers can book the new model from today at all authorized Toyota dealerships nationwide. This means that the launch should take place within a month, going by the usual time-frame for most companies.
The new generation, which has been in the regional market less than a year, shows a big departure from the design language used in previous generations. Like the other new Toyota models we’ve seen in recent times, the appearance is more aggressive like the latest Camry. It also looks sportier with the fastback silhouette giving a stretched look.
With the launch of the new second generation of the Perodua Axia today, the Malaysian carmaker raises the benchmark for entry-level cars. In most countries, cars in the lowest price bracket are usually quite basic, with minimum safety features. That’s not the case for the new Axia which, in the top variants, has advanced features and technologies.
There are four variants as before, with prices ranging from RM38,600 to RM49,500, to suit different budgets. Though the prices have increased a bit, Perodua’s President & CEO , Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, said that the increases are not as much as the extra value of RM5,800 in better or extra features. Customers are thus getting better value for their money with the new model.
As with previous new model introductions, Perodua offered the media a chance to get first impressions of driving the new Axia as well as provided more details of the specifications. The company has asked us not to write about the specs and features as it wants to them made public only when the car is officially launched on February 14.
However, we have been encouraged to share our brief experience with the new car (albeit a brief one) and also pictures of its exterior (which was camouflaged) as well as interior. Four variants will be available – G, X, SE and AV – and all will have the same powertrain.
A new generation of the Toyota Yaris Ativ was unveiled in Thailand this evening and while it is known by that name there, Malaysians know it as the Vios, one of the best-selling sedans in the non-national brand segment. With this new DNGA-based Yaris Ativ, the Vios goes into its fourth generation since 2002. To date, around 3.5 million units have been sold worldwide, with a large number in ASEAN.
DNGA – Daihatsu New Global Architecture –is a platform and structure which is used for the smaller models in the Toyota Group which Daihatsu is part off (and which is also extended to Perodua since it is partnered with Daihatsu).
Current third generation Vios
DNGA has been developed with weight-saving approaches while the rigid structure and suspension geometry provide high standards of stability and comfort. Besides giving much attention to aerodynamics, DNGA also provides generous interior space with a quiet environment.
Size-wise, the new Vios (we’ll call it that since the name is more familiar to Malaysians) is almost the same as its predecessor with 5 mm more length, 10 mm more width and an extra 5 mm in overall height. Of greater significance is the widening of the wheelbase by 70 mm to 2620 mm which will have positive implications on handling and stability and more importantly, cabin spaciousness.
For now, only the specs for the Thai Yaris Ativ model are available and the engine fitted is the 3NR-VE 1.2-litre petrol engine which is partly dictated by the need to meet the country’s Eco Car requirement for incentives. This engine produces 94 ps/110 Nm which flows through a Super CVT-i transmission to the front wheels. As is common these days, the driver can choose an Economy or Sport mode, or just leave the engine to run in the default Normal mode.
It’s not known whether Malaysia will continue with the 1.5-litre 2NR-VE unit (107 ps/140 NM) in the current Vios. As the model is assembled locally, it may be possible to use the engine and if we’re not mistaken, it is produced at a factory in Negeri Sembilan. Using the engine would be important for the model to maximise its local content level and get better government incentives to help keep its pricing competitive.
The suspension remains straightforward with MacPherson struts in front and a torsion beam with coil springs at the rear. Some versions come with rear disc brakes as an extra selling point although most engineers will tell you that drum brakes are good enough.
As we’ve seen in the new models launched in recent times, Toyota’s design approach has become more ‘aggressive’ with a bolder appearance. Where appropriate, models are also given a sportier image and in the case of the new Vios/Yaris Ativ, the profile has gained a sleeker fastback style which brings the Cd down to 0.284.
The frontal appearance, now more angular and chiseled, has hints of the larger Camry with the dominant grille. Sequential turn signals and LED headlamps/tail lamps have now come down in price that they can be offered in this class.
With each new generation, the level of quality has risen and texturing is even finer. Adjustable ambient lighting, common in more expensive models, has now trickled down to the Vios and the driver can choose from 64 colours to set the mood for each journey.
The dashboard layout follows current trends with a tablet-like touchscreen display to show infotainment and navigation information. In the middle area of the dashboard are the manual controls for the ventilation and air-conditioning system, a more practical approach than having everything done by just touch.
Over on the driver’s side, the digital instrument panel shows all the operating information (with variable displays) while there are switches on the steering wheel for easy setting changes without taking the hands of the steering wheel.
Depending on the version, the new Vios comes with features such as automatic air-conditioning, a PM 2.5 air filtration system and an electric parking brake. Connectivity with smartphones is easily done with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
An extensive Toyota Safety Sense package (which includes Adaptive Cruise Control) is provided to reduce drive workload as well as help avoid accidents. There’s also the Panoramic View Monitor which provides an all-round view and Toyota also has its own DVRs (dashcams) that are installed as standard or offered as accessories, depending on the version.
Perodua tonight launched the all-new Ativa compact SUV which can be regarded as the spiritual successor of the Kembara, its first SUV sold from the late 1990s till the mid-2000s. While the Ativa (taken from the Portuguese word for ‘active’) is adapted from a Daihatsu model, as the Kembara was, the involvement of Perodua in the development of this new model was far greater. In fact, a team of 54 Malaysian engineers went to Japan in 2018 to be part of the development team for the new model being developed by Daihatsu which would also be shared with Toyota.
The Kembara – Perodua’s first SUV which was sold between 1998 and 2006.
This is significant because it meant that the requirements of Malaysian customers would also be considered in the overall design, whereas for the Kembara before, the model was already completed and then Perodua only adapted it cosmetically. The Ativa is the result of the first truly smart partnership between Perodua and its technical and technology partner and shareholder, Daihatsu.
Another difference is that the Ativa has a higher level of localisation than the Kembara, which has helped bring costs down. In fact, at 95%, it has the highest local content rate for any Perodua model right at the time of launch.
Prices shown exclude insurance and 10% sales tax (until June 30, 2021).
“The Perodua Ativa’s competitive pricing was made possible by its 95% localisation rate. Even the engine and transmission are locally manufactured,” Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad said, adding that it is also the first model under the Perodua Smart Build blueprint.
According to Dato’ Zainal, the Ativa brings Perodua’s collaboration with Daihatsu to a new level and allows Perodua and its suppliers to commonise components and processes for maximum cost efficiency. “This close collaboration allowed us to include the Malaysian automotive ecosystem in the development of this model, and the suppliers rose to the challenge and were able to reduce their costs,” he added.
As a result, Perodua has been able to push the prices down a bit more and the actual retail prices are lower than the estimated range of RM62,500 to RM73,400 announced earlier. The three variants will be priced between RM61,500 to RM72,000 (excluding insurance premiums in Peninsular Malaysia, with full exemption of sales tax until June 30, 2021).
“We have so far received some 5,000 bookings for the Perodua Ativa since we began collecting orders on February 19. We thank the public very much for their support. Deliveries will begin tomorrow (March 4), and we aim to deliver an average of 3,000 units a month,” said Dato’ Zainal.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW PERODUA ATIVA
First turbocharged model
The Ativa’s powertrain has a number of firsts for the brand. One is the 1-litre 3-cylinder engine (1KR-VE) has turbocharging and direct fuel injection, delivering a maximum output of 98 ps/140 Nm, with strong torque coming in at the lower range. Considering that the kerb weight is 1,035 kgs, thanks to weight-saving measures, the performance should be zippy even with a full load.
The Ativa is also the first model to use a Continuously Variable Transmission (D-CVT) which has 7 ‘virtual speeds’ (manual transmission is not available). With the efficient engine and CVT, the claimed fuel consumption is 18.9 kms/litre, which qualifies the model as an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) in Malaysia.
The Ativa’s 1-litre turbocharged engine and 7-speed D-CVT (right).
DNGA Platform
The Ativa shares the same platform used for the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize, the models from the same joint development program that Perodua participated in. This platform is referred to as DNGA or Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) that encompasses not just the platform but also many other structural aspects of the vehicle. It is a highly rigid platform for enhanced handling, stability and comfort. With DNGA, the structure is optimized and high tensile steel is used in many areas to save weight without losing strength.
Dimensions of the Ativa
The Ativa has compact dimensions that position it below the Aruz. Its overall length is 4065 mm while the overall width is 1710 mm and it stands 1635 mm tall. The wheelbase is 2525 mm and unlike the Aruz, there are only two rows of seats in the cabin. There are two storage modes for the cargo area which give 303 or 369 litres of space and as with most SUVs, the rear backrests can be folded down individually to expand the floor length for longer items.
Advanced safety features
Since the 3rd generation of the Myvi, Perodua has been introducing progressively more advanced safety systems in its models. Many of these are integrated as the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) system which helps the driver avoid accidents. For the Ativa, the system has reached the third generation which works at higher speeds (up to 120 km/h for vehicles, up to 60 km/h for pedestrians), and can now detect 2-wheeled vehicles as well as function at night.
ASA 3.0 consists of Pre-Collision Warning and Automatic Braking, Front Departure Alert, and Pedal Misoperation Control. ASA uses a camera at the top of the windscreen to monitor the road ahead and assess conditions. In the event of a collision, the driver will first be warned and if no action is taken to reduced speed or brake, the brakes will activate automatically. This would certainly avoid an expensive repair job or even if the collision cannot be avoided (due to the road surface conditions), the pro-active braking would have reduced the speed and effects of the impact.
Front Departure Alert will remind the driver that the car in front has moved off, while the Pedal Misoperation Control can prevent the car from accidentally being driven into a wall due to pressing on the accelerator pedal inadvertently (it does happen). Additionally, complementing ASA are Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.
The top AV variant gets additional systems which give semi-autonomous (Level 2) capabilities to the Ativa while driving. These are Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Control and Blind Spot Warning. You would have heard of these systems which are found in cars costing more than the Ativa, and it’s impressive that Perodua can offer them as well – even if in the most expensive variant only.
The Adaptive High Beam (red car) can adjust the areas of illumination to avoid blinding oncoming drivers while still maximising coverage.
Even more amazing is the standard provision of an Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) system for the upper two variants. ADB allows better illumination of the road ahead but can also selectively dim certain areas where there are oncoming cars so as not to dazzle the drivers. It’s intelligent technology and even cars a few price classes higher do not have such technology.
For the lowest-priced variant, there is still the convenience of an Auto High Beam which means that the driver does not have to keep switching between high and low beams. Whenever the headlights of a vehicle are detected, the high beams will automatically be switched to low beams, reverting when there is no longer a vehicle approaching. Imagine if all companies in Malaysia were like Perodua and provided this as standard, night driving would be less tiring without the glare of strong headlights.
Incidentally, all variants have LED headlights which usually have a longer service life. They are also equipped with a follow-me-home function that keeps them on for a while after the car is locked. This provides illumination of the ground ahead for peace of mind.
The top two variants also get a reverse camera but the Ativa AV gets Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) as well. Again, this is a feature that has yet to be found in models of this price class. RCTA uses the rear sensors to monitor the situation on either side as the vehicle is reversing out of a parking bay. The driver might not be able to see due to adjacent cars blocking the view, but if the sensors pick up approaching vehicles, an alert will be sounded so that an accident can be avoided.
Besides the A.S.A. and active safety systems, the Ativa also comes with a very comprehensive list of other safety items – standard for all variants. These include 6 airbags (4 at the sides), Vehicle Stability Control, ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist and Hillhold Assist. ISOFIX points are, of course, provided since parents must now have put small children in childseats. ISOFIX-compatible childseats are convenient to install and stay securely in place.
Infotainment and connectivity
These days, every model has to have a capable infotainment system with good connectivity to provide the driver with more useful features as well as connect to smartphones. The top two variants come with a 9-inch LCD touchscreen with a bright and spacious display. There is also Smart Link (for Android devices) and Voice Recognition that allows active voice commands for certain functions.
Storage and convenience features
The interior designers have made sure that everyone in the cabin has spaces to keep their stuff and there are also USB ports that can provide power to recharge devices. Some clever ideas for storage spaces – a slot by the side of the gearlever housing, and slide-out cupholders in front of the vents on either side of the dashboard (good for keeping drinks cool!).
All variants have Smart Entry and Start/Stop System which does not require using a key or even pressing on the remote (but it has to be in the pocket or handbag). The doors can be unlocked by touching an electrostatic button on the door handle, and the engine can be started or stopped with the press of a button.
Instrumentation
While the Ativa X comes with a conventional instrument panel, the Ativa H and AV have a customisable display to change how the information is presented to the driver. The speed is always shown as a digital display while the fuel level is a bar graph. However, the tachometer can be configured in one of four graphic styles. Additionally, there is also a Reminder Display which will flash reminders on special days.
GearUp accessories
As with every Perodua model currently on sale, there is also a range of specially developed accessories to go with the adventurous looks. The items include a bodykit, front and rear seat upholstery, luggage tray, bumper protectors, luggage net, high quality coil mats and even an insulation kit for the bonnet. Prices range from RM80 to RM2,500 (in Peninsular Malaysia).
The GearUp accessories include a bonnet insulator kit which has pads that can be inserted in cavities in the bonnet panel. These pads can absorb engine noises to give a quieter ride.
There are also many other general accessories, all of which have been evaluated by Perodua so you can be sure they are of high quality, Furthermore, for the GearUp accessories that have to be installed, these are by Perodua’s own installers so the job will be professionally done. And the cost of all the extras can be included in the total loan for the vehicle if you specify them at the time of the purchase. That means the extra cost is also repaid over a number of years… something which no accessory shop would be give you.
To locate a showroom to view, test-drive or buy the new Perodua Ativa, visit www.perodua.com.my.
Displayed at the recent Tokyo Motor Show, the Toyota Raize SUV has now gone on sale in Japan with prices starting from 1,679,000 yen (equivalent to RM64,000). A product jointly developed by Toyota and Daihatsu (which is part of the Toyota Group), the compact Raize measures 3995 mm long and 1695 mm wide which makes it about 100 mm longer than a Perodua Myvi.
It would appear that the Raize is largely a Daihatsu product (which is sold as a Rocky under the Daihatsu brand) as it is not only using the new Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) but is also manufactured for Toyota by Daihatsu. It is speculated that this new model will also be the basis for a new compact SUV from Perodua although with its own upperbody design capabilities, Perodua’s version is likely to have a different appearance. The X-Concept which the Malaysian carmaker displayed at the KL International Motor Show last year could offer clues to its looks.
The Raize comes with only one powertrain but either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. It is powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine (1KR-VET VVT-i shown above) which develops 98 ps/140 Nm, figures comparable to a 1.5-litre engine. Power delivery goes through a D-CVT which has innovations to increase performance as well as fuel efficient.
Depending on the testing cycle used, claimed fuel consumption of the Raize can be as high as 23.4 kms/litre, using the Japanese JC-08 test cycle. However, using the internationally recognised WLTC (World Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Cycle), the figure is 18.6 kms/litre.
4WD variants have Dynamic Torque Control 4WD, mainly intended for vehicles operating in conditions where there is frequent ice and snow. When accelerating from a start or when driving on slippery road surfaces, this system distributes torque in an optimal manner to the rear wheels to enhance grip and stability. On certain variants, there is a display which shows the distribution of torque to each wheel in real-time for the driver’s awareness.
The suspension is quite straightforward since it has to also be low-cost for an entry-level model. There are MacPherson struts up front with a torsion beam for the rear. Part shapes have been optimised for reduced weight and the tuning has been focussed on giving a stable ride with minimal roll.
Besides having adaptive cruise control, the Raize also comes with the latest Smart Assist safety features, including the Crash Avoidance Braking Function, which is capable of detecting both vehicles and pedestrians, and the Erroneous Start Prevention Function with braking control (forward and backward). A Smart Panorama Parking Assist system provides voice and image guidance as well as steering assistance when parking.
Generous space for occupants within 6.77 square metres
Within a footprint of 6.77 square metres and a length of 3.995 metres, the interior designers have managed to provide a cabin with generous space for the occupants. Not only that, the compact SUV boasts a class-leading 369-litres of luggage capacity. The rear seats can also be folded to further increase cargo volume while a two-level deck board structure allows for maximum use of all the volume.
The dashboard appears quite crowded but has been carefully planned so that the driver can have a good view of the road ahead. This is helped by the high hip point (665 mm in the Raize) which raises the body. It is typical of SUVs and one reason why women, in particular, like SUVs. The higher hip point is also helpful for getting in and out, especially for older people.
The LED digital speedometer and 7-inch TFT colour LCD display are seamlessly integrated, appearing to create a single screen. The driver can choose between 4 display styles: Advanced, Exciting, Simple, and Analogue. Over at the middle of the dashboard, in keeping with current interior design trends, there’s a 9-inch display panel. This shows the apps on a smartphone using SmartDeviceLink and Apple CarPlay, expanding the range of choices available to the occupants.
Raize for Malaysia?
As sales numbers determine whether a model will be in showrooms in Malaysia, it’s hard to say if UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) will offer the Raize. It could be a good complement to the Vios and Yaris at the lower end, adding a SUV choice for entry-level customers. But the price would also have to be low enough to get the numbers and that will be dependent on the potential volume. It is likely that if UMWT wants the product, it would be made by Perodua, just like the Rush, as that makes sense. However, if Perodua’s model is significantly different from the Daihatsu Rocky, then UMWT may have to import it from Indonesia where it could also be made.
New Daihatsu Rocky which has also gone on sale in Japan today (left) and the Perodua X Concept displayed last year at the KL International Motor Show. Perodua now has its own capability to design the upperbody so it could have a significantly different looking model which shares the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA).
