The Toyota Vios, particularly the third generation (XP90) with the 2016 facelift, represents Toyota’s entry-level sedan primarily targeted towards emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and parts of Africa. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vios occupies a significant niche as an affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient vehicle. The 2016 facelift brought subtle styling updates and continued the Vios’s reputation for practicality. This iteration, powered by a 1.3-liter engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), is designed for urban commuting and everyday transportation needs. The Vios competes with other subcompact sedans like the Honda City, Nissan Almera, and Hyundai Accent in its target markets.
Toyota Vios III (Facelift 2016) 1.3 CVT: An Overview
The Vios III, launched initially in 2013 and receiving a facelift in 2016, is a crucial model in Toyota’s global lineup, particularly in regions where affordability and fuel economy are paramount. The facelifted model features revised front and rear styling, interior enhancements, and updated safety features, depending on the specific market. The 1.3-liter CVT variant is a popular choice due to its balance of performance and efficiency. It’s designed to provide comfortable transportation for families and individuals, prioritizing ease of use and low running costs. The Vios is known for its robust build quality and Toyota’s renowned reliability, making it a favored choice among consumers seeking a dependable vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2016 Toyota Vios 1.3 CVT is the 1NR-FE 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 98 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 123 Nm (90.72 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4400 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for daily driving conditions. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 73.7 horsepower per liter. The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration over traditional stepped gear changes. The CVT helps the engine operate within its optimal range, maximizing fuel economy. The maximum engine speed is rated at 6200 rpm. The 1NR-FE engine is known for its durability and relatively simple design, contributing to the Vios’s overall reliability. Engine oil capacity is 3.3 liters (3.49 US qt / 2.9 UK qt).
Design & Features
The 2016 Toyota Vios III maintains the sedan body style, offering seating for five passengers across two rows. It features a traditional four-door configuration. The facelifted model incorporates subtle design changes, including a revised front grille, updated headlights, and a redesigned bumper. The interior is functional and practical, with a focus on providing comfortable seating and essential features. Depending on the trim level and market, features may include air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system, and safety features like airbags and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Vios prioritizes practicality and affordability over luxurious appointments. The vehicle’s dimensions are optimized for maneuverability in urban environments. The Vios’s design is conservative and appeals to a broad range of consumers seeking a reliable and unpretentious vehicle. The 14-inch wheel rims are standard on this model.
Safety Features
Safety features in the 2016 Toyota Vios 1.3 CVT vary depending on the market. Generally, the Vios includes standard safety equipment such as dual front airbags, and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Higher trim levels may include additional features like Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The vehicle’s body structure is designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision. While not equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) commonly found in modern vehicles, the Vios provides a basic level of safety for its target market. The focus is on providing essential safety features at an affordable price point.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Vios |
| Generation | Vios III (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (98 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 123 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 90.72 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6200 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | 1NR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1329 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 81.1 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 2.85 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 3.17 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 3.49 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 2.9 UK qt |
| Length | 4425 mm |
| Length (in.) | 174.21 in. |
| Width | 1730 mm |
| Width (in.) | 68.11 in. |
| Height | 1475 mm |
| Height (in.) | 58.07 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 100.39 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
