Toyota will announce three new cars at IIMS 2026, including the hybrid version of Veloz

【PCauto】The IIMS 2026 is set to kick off on February 5 at JIExpo Kemayoran in Jakarta. PT Toyota-Astra Motor (TAM) Vice President Henry Tanoto has revealed that three electrified new cars will be launched at the event, including a Veloz Hybrid, a model from the GR (Gazoo Racing) performance series, and an unidentified electrified product. Among these, the Veloz HEV is undoubtedly the highlight.

The Veloz HEV is equipped with a 2NR-VEX 1.5L four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine, delivering a maximum power output of 91 PS and a peak torque of 121 Nm. It is paired with an electric motor that produces 80 PS and 141 Nm of torque. The system’s combined maximum power reaches 111 PS, paired with an e-CVT electronic continuously variable transmission and a front-wheel-drive layout.

The strength of this THS hybrid system (using a series-parallel configuration) lies in its ability to switch seamlessly between pure electric, series, and parallel modes depending on road conditions. During low-speed urban driving, it operates in pure electric mode for zero emissions, while during high-speed cruising, the engine and motor work together to ensure both power and efficiency.

What makes the Veloz HEV most appealing is its fuel economy. The official combined fuel consumption ranges from 28 to 31 km/L, nearly 50% lower than the conventional petrol Veloz’s 15 km/L.

To avoid sacrificing practicality, Toyota has placed the lithium-ion battery under the seat, fully preserving boot space. Furthermore, with 205mm of ground clearance, body dimensions of 4475 mm × 1750 mm × 1700 mm, and a 2750 mm wheelbase, it maintains the spaciousness and drivability of the petrol version. The 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels add a touch of refinement to its appearance.

In terms of features, the Veloz HEV comes with a 7-inch full LCD instrument panel with a hybrid energy flow display, a 9-inch floating centre console screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an electronic parking brake, auto hold, a wireless charging pad, and independent rear air-conditioning controls. These features place it at—or even above—the mainstream level among vehicles in the same segment.

Additionally, the Veloz HEV has been optimised for NVH performance. Extra soundproofing material has been added to the firewall and chassis, while the silent driving experience in pure electric mode noticeably enhances both driving and riding comfort compared to the petrol version.

The exterior hybrid-exclusive blue logo, HEV side emblem, and dark chrome front grille trim also visually distinguish it from the petrol version.

However, the Veloz HEV’s path to market is not without challenges. Compared to competitors such as the Mitsubishi Xpander and Suzuki Ertiga Hybrid, it lacks a decisive price advantage. Moreover, the absence of the TSS system in the base variant could give safety-conscious consumers pause. Lastly, Toyota’s two undisclosed electrified models—speculated to be hybrid SUVs or PHEVs—will determine whether they, alongside the Veloz HEV, can form a cohesive product lineup that accelerates Toyota’s electrification transition in Indonesia. The outcome will depend on their specific capabilities.

As a popular model in the Southeast Asian market, the hybrid Veloz entering mass production indicates that Toyota is beginning to bring its mature hybrid technology to the family MPV market. This approach is more effective in promoting local electrification than launching a high-end electric vehicle model.

After all, for most families, fuel-efficient, durable, and easy-to-maintain hybrid vehicles better meet current usage needs than pure electric vehicles.