New 2016 Toyota Etios launch on September 13

The Etios has been one of the first products built by the Japanese car maker for emerging markets. Launched in 2010, the Etios has not been able to capitalise on the Toyota brand in spite of regular updates. Toyota is planning to launch the new 2016 Toyota Etios sedan next month with added firepower to take on the competition.

The 2016 facelift of the Toyota Etios will include changes to the exterior as well as the interior along with additions to the feature list. The black and beige combination might get an all-black treatment like the Brazilian car that has been launched recently. While the dashboard layout remains the same, the centrally mounted instrument cluster will get digital treatment instead of the existing analogue dials along with electrically operated wing mirrors and steering mounted audio controls. The 2-DIN music system will now offer a touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity for telephony and music. The top-spec Etios might also get automatic climate control.

Toyota has worked towards making the car premium and it is evident from the styling. The styling has undergone quite a few changes with a new front fascia. The front bumper has been redesigned with a contoured radiator grille with black horizontal slats. The blacked out air dam has been split into two with and houses the fog lamps. The reflector clear lens headlamps have been carried forward. The profile remains the same thanks to the retained body shell though the design of the alloys will be new. The rear bumper gets additional contours to make it look premium.

Under the skin, the Etios will continue with its reliable 1.5-litre petrol engine option and the 1.4-litre diesel mill. The four cylinder engines develop 88bhp and 67bhp of power respectively and come mated to a five speed manual gearbox that powers the front wheels. To ensure that the Etios carries its occupants safely, the sedan may get dual front airbags and ABS standard across all variants. Engine performance and driving feel will remain unchanged but you can expect better noise insulation in the new Etios.

While the new Toyota Etios does not have direct competition as of now, it will have to fend competition from the compact sedans with the equipment they offer for a lower price. Low maintenance costs, reliability and cabin space along with larger boot-size, though, will work in favour of the Etios. To be launched next month, we expect the new Toyota Etios to be priced aggressively with an introductory price tag of under Rs 7 lakh.