What we like:

Flat floor at the rear

powerful air-con

What we dislike:

Non-level loading area when rear seats are folded

Providing the oomph for the new Vios is the familiar 1.5-litre 1NZ-FE four-cylinder engine that has been in service since 2002. Like before, it develops 107bhp at 6,000rpm and 141Nm of torque at 4,200rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission is also carried over from the outgoing Vios.

It may take a leisurely 12 seconds to get from rest to 100km/h but its fuel consumption is worth taking note of – 6.5 litres for every 100km (which works out to 15.4km per litre), an above average figure for its class. Its low carbon dioxide emission earns the Vios a CEVS rebate of $5,000.

Expectedly, the steering is light, which is ideal for negotiating the city traffic and parking, but feedback is lacking. Grip from the comfort-oriented Yokohama dB Decibel tyres is just adequate, but it makes up for it by working together with the suspension to equip the Vios with a relatively quiet and comfortable ride.

Starting from $107,988 including COE, the new Vios presents itself to be an enticing proposition, particularly for first-time car buyers and young families. The G version (costing $4,000 more) seem to be of a better value than the E version as it gets more equipment, amongst which includes projector headlights, larger front brake discs, rear disc brakes, climate control air-conditioning and split-folding rear seats with centre armrest.

Credits: Story and Photos by Lim Chun Kiat