The Toyota Vios HEV is now available for pre-sale, starting at RM103,000, with an impressive fuel efficiency of 20 kmL

【PCauto】Toyota has recently unveiled pricing and specifications for the all-new Vios HEV on its official website. Positioned as a fuel-efficient B-segment sedan, the Vios HEV features an optimised powertrain alongside a range of interior and exterior upgrades.

The Vios HEV retains the familiar silhouette of the current model, featuring clean and refined lines that cater to modern tastes for compact sedans.

In terms of body dimensions:

• Length: 4,425 mm
• Width: 1,740 mm
• Height: 1,480 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,620 mm

These figures are in line with standard B-segment sedan proportions.

Compared to the fuel-powered version, the Vios HEV has received subtle adjustments to its appearance, particularly at the front. It sports a hybrid-exclusive grille design, LED headlamps, and distinctive ambient lighting.

These elements enhance its contemporary and tech-forward aesthetic, aimed particularly at young buyers or families seeking a first car.

Compared to the traditional version, the interior of the Vios HEV has undergone significant improvements.

The centre console now incorporates a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for enhanced connectivity.

Additionally, the interior is upgraded with ambient lighting and a digital instrument cluster, among other high-tech features.

More importantly, cabin materials see an upgrade, with a reduced use of hard plastics and an increase in soft-touch surfaces, lending the interior a more premium feel.

On the safety front, the Vios HEV comes equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite. This includes features like adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, and blind-spot monitor, offering comprehensive driver assistance.

Under the bonnet, the Vios HEV employs a 1.5-litre hybrid system pairing a naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle engine. This engine produces a maximum output of 91 horsepower (about 67 kW), while the electric motor contributes an additional 80 horsepower (about 59 kW).

The combined output is 111 horsepower (about 82 kW), delivered to the front wheels via an e-CVT transmission system.

According to official figures, the Vios HEV promises excellent fuel economy, with a claimed combined consumption exceeding 20 km/l, even in urban stop-start traffic.

However, the price of the Vios HEV is notably higher. The range-topping ICE Vios is priced at RM95,500. In comparison, the pre-sale price for the Vios HEV 1.5 HEV AT starts at RM103,900, while the 1.5 HEV GR-S AT variant with a sportier exterior kit is listed at RM109,900.

From a value perspective, the premium for the Vios HEV may be difficult to justify on fuel savings alone. The petrol version of the Vios also delivers 106 horsepower, which isn't significantly less than the HEV version.

If minimising fuel consumption is the primary goal, one could consider the fully electric BYD Seal 6, which uses no fuel. Priced around RM100k, it also offers a larger footprint and a more generously appointed cabin.

That said, the ICE Vios continues to sell over 2,000 units monthly, maintaining its position as Toyota's best-seller in Malaysia.

Despite competition from rivals like the Proton S70 in the petrol segment and the BYD Seal 6 among EVs, the Vios HEV is still expected to attract a loyal following, bolstered by Toyota's strong brand equity.