The Toyota-Suzuki joint venture has already introduced a wide range of products in India as well as in select international markets including South Africa. The latest edition is the Toyota Vitz hatch in South Africa. It is basically the re-badged version of the current-gen Maruti Celerio, which is on sale in our market. In the South African markets, the Vitz will replace the Agya hatchback.
The overall styling of the Toyota Vitz remains identical to the current-gen Celerio. The only visible difference is the addition of Toyota and Vitz badges. The interior pictures are yet to be revealed. We expect the cabin won’t receive any major upgrades over the Celerio. However, Toyota could add different colours for upholstery and Toyota badge on the steering wheel.
Powering the hatchback is a 1.0-litre K10C, 3-cylinder dualjet petrol engine with dual VVT and Idle start-stop technology. This engine is capable of producing 65.7bhp of power and 89Nm of torque. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual and an AMT unit. The Celerio is one of the most fuel efficient petrol car on sale in our market. It is claimed to offer a fuel efficiency of 25.23kmpl with manual gearbox, while the AMT version returns a certified mileage of 26.68kmpl.
Similar to the Celerio, the Toyota Vitz will have a boot space of 313-litres. It is fitted with features like a 7-inch SmartPlay Studio infotainment system with smartphone navigation, engine start/stop button, multi-functional steering wheel, electrically adjustable & foldable ORVMs, keyless entry, hiill hold assist with AMT, dual airbags, ABS with EBD & brake assist and others.
For people not in the know, Toyota is selling Rumion MPV based on the Ertiga in the South African market. If reports are to be believed, this model will also be launched in our market this year. Moreover, Toyota will also launch its own version of the new Maruti Suzuki Fronx in India in 2023.
