Toyota Vios II 1.3 (87 Hp)

The Toyota Vios II 1.3, produced between 2007 and 2013, represents the second generation of Toyota’s subcompact sedan aimed primarily at the Asian market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vios holds significant importance in regions like Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, where it consistently ranked among the best-selling vehicles in its class. Positioned as an affordable and reliable family car, the Vios II offered a practical alternative to larger, more expensive sedans, focusing on fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance. This generation built upon the success of the first Vios, refining its design and improving its overall driving experience.

Toyota Vios II 1.3: A Regional Success Story

The Vios, in its various iterations, has been a cornerstone of Toyota’s strategy in emerging markets. The second generation, specifically the 1.3-liter variant, was designed to cater to the needs of budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable and spacious sedan. It competed directly with models like the Honda City and Nissan Tiida in its target markets. The Vios II’s success stemmed from Toyota’s reputation for quality, combined with a competitive price point and a focus on practicality. It served as a crucial entry point into the Toyota brand for many customers.

Engine & Performance

The Toyota Vios II 1.3 is powered by a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated as the 2NZ-FE. This naturally aspirated engine produces 87 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 121 Nm (89.25 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for daily commuting and typical urban driving conditions. The power-to-weight ratio of 83.7 Hp/tonne and torque-to-weight ratio of 116.3 Nm/tonne reflect its focus on efficiency rather than outright speed. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 11:1 to optimize fuel combustion. The front-engine, front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to its predictable handling and relatively low running costs. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, providing drivers with direct control over gear selection.

Design & Features

The Vios II maintains a traditional sedan body style with four doors and seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by clean lines and a relatively conservative aesthetic, prioritizing practicality over flamboyant styling. The vehicle measures 4300 mm (169.29 in) in length, 1690 mm (66.54 in) in width, and 1460 mm (57.48 in) in height, offering a reasonable amount of interior space for its class. The trunk provides 475 liters (16.77 cu. ft.) of cargo capacity, sufficient for everyday needs. Inside, the Vios II offers a functional and straightforward interior layout. While not lavishly equipped, it typically includes basic amenities such as air conditioning, power steering, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the time, generally include seatbelts and a driver’s airbag. The McPherson strut front suspension and semi-independent coil spring rear suspension provide a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, ride quality.

Technical Specifications

The Toyota Vios II 1.3, while not a groundbreaking vehicle in terms of innovation, successfully fulfilled its intended purpose as an affordable, reliable, and practical sedan for the Southeast Asian market. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Toyota’s understanding of the needs and preferences of its target customers in these regions.