Toyota maybe developing a compact SUV based on the Etios

Toyota may be developing a new, compact SUV based on the Etios platform. Well known for producing UV marvels like the Land Cruiser and the famed Hilux pick-up truck, Toyota does not have a vehicle smaller than the Rush SUV (about the same size as a Renault Duster) and this vehicle, when launched will take up the mantle of being the smallest SUV from the company. It currently produces a beefed up version of the Etios for the Brazilian market called the Etios Cross which follows the same principle as VW’s Cross Polo. 

       

A report from Team-bhp suggests that the vehicle, in addition to the underpinnings, will also make use of the same engine and transmission options. This means a 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces 88bhp and 132Nm of torque and a 1.4-litre oil burner that churns out 67bhp and 170Nm of torque. Both engines have been mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. In this regard we expect that the feature list and overall design will remain very similar to that of the Etios but with the obvious SUV touches. 

       

The compact SUV will give Toyota access to the all-important and rapidly expanding compact crossover/compact SUV segment which is currently populated by cars like the Ford EcoSport, Renault Duster and the Nissan Terrano. We also expect that along with this car, Toyota will bring the Etios Cross to the Indian market simply in a bid to expand its range of vehicles in various segments.