UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd, the distributor and assembler of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia has unveiled the latest Toyota Avanza with significant changes, including 2 brand new engines.
The powerplants for the latest Avanza are from the new NR series. Featuring Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), Toyota claims the engines are more efficient and have cleaner exhaust emissions than before while also generating higher output. Noise and vibrations are also lower, thanks to various measures taken in the design and use of sound-dampening materials.
While VVT-i has been available in most Toyota engines for over 15 years, Dual VVT-i has until now been available only in the more expensive or sporty models. It is found in both the 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre engines. For the 1.5-litre engine, power output has been increased to 105 ps while the maximum 136 Nm of torque is now available at 4,200 rpm. The 1.3-litre engine has a more significant increase of maximum power output to 97 ps, with torque increased to 121 Nm.
Besides numerous measures in the design of the new engine, the optimization of reduced oil pressure in the transmissions as well as use of electronic throttle control have improved fuel consumption from a range of 5 to 15% (depending on road, traffic, driving conditions and driving style). Additionally, if the driver wants to maximize fuel economy, there is an Eco Drive Indicator which creates better awareness of fuel-efficient driving.
The latest Avanza retains the simple, yet dynamic design of a small MPV. It is almost the same size as the previous generation but has a 50 mm increase in the front overhang which gives a sleeker profile.
Following the present styling concept seen in other recent Toyota models such as the Vios and Corolla Altis, the Avanza’s front has a sharper and more dynamic look. The S Grade has a sportier front grille and bumper design while the G and E Grades are styled to give a luxurious and high-class look.
The new headlamps expand outwards from the middle and merge into the sides. The ‘Eye Line’ of the upper part provides a visual sense of continuity from the upper grille garnish. Foglamps are also provided for the Avanza 1.5S and 1.5G.
Customers who would like a sportier look can include the custom-designed aerokit at the time of ordering their new Avanza 1.5G, 1.5E and 1.3E. The bodykit includes a front bumper spoiler with integrated dayrunning lights, rear bumper spoiler and side skirts.
There are new designs for the alloy wheels for all variants (except the Avanza 1.3E which are equipped with steel wheels). The Avanza 1.5S and 1.5G are fitted with 15-inch wheels with a machined finish that enhances their appearance, while the Avanza 1.5E has 14-inch wheels with a simple radiating design for a light and dynamic appearance.
Inside the cabin, the previous two-tone theme of the Avanza has been changed to a new black-based interior theme with contrasting silver ornamentation to give a sportier ambiance. Aside from that, the new dashboard design has more silver ornamentation to give a more luxurious appearance. The meter panel has high quality and detailed graphics with excellent night visibility, thanks to the use of white as the colour for illumination at night. For the Avanza 1.5S, the meter panel has a sportier and stylish design.
To provide ride quality and handling comparable to a passenger car, the Avanza has independent MacPherson front suspension and a 5-link coil spring rear suspension that is better for heavier loads. Revisions made to the suspension settings provide improved handling and stability as well as ride comfort. The driver will also notice improved steering feel and better straight-line stability at high speeds.
In terms of safety, the Avanza offers a high level of Passive Safety, especially with respect to collision impacts. Its new body structure has passed Toyota’s tough in-house crash standards referred to as ‘Global Outstanding Assessment’ (GOA). It is also expected to achieve 4 stars in the ASEAN NCAP frontal collision crash (at 64 km/h). Beyond that, all variants also comes equipped with SRS (Supplementary Restraint System) airbags for the front occupants, 3-point Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR), ISOFIX child seat, ABS as well as EBD.
The available security system found in the new Avanza consists of an engine immobilizer, cabin sensor and siren with a back-up battery. UMW Toyota Motor also provides a portable tyre pump with every Avanza for emergencies or just to adjust tyre pressures at anytime and anywhere.
Available in four variants, below are the on-the-road prices including GST and insurance for Peninsular Malaysia:
- Avanza 1.5S Automatic – RM 80,810
- Avanza 1.5G Automatic – RM 78,477
- Avanza 1.5E Automatic- RM 75,787
- Avanza 1.3E Manual – RM69,072
As with all models offered by UMW Toyota Motor, the new Avanza comes with a 36-month/100,000 km (whichever occurs earlier after first registration) warranty.
