Toyota unveils latest model of bestselling MPV

 

Business owners and families with four or more members on the lookout for a practical city vehicle might consider getting an MPV or multi-purpose vehicle. Larger and roomier than a sedan but not quite as imposing as an SUV, its main selling features are space, functionality and no-fuss performance.

 

Toyota engineers realized this when they developed the Avanza. Touted as the bestselling compact MPV, the model has sold over 50,000 units since it was first launched in the country in 2006. The Japanese carmaker recently launched the Avanza’s newest iteration with improvements in form and function. 

 

The seven-seater Avanza comes in 1.3 or 1.5-liter dual VVT-I four-cylinder in-line 16-valve engines, with maximum power of 103hp at 6,000rpm, and maximum torque of 136Nm at 1,600 to 4,200 rpm. This makes it powerful enough to carry heavy cargo and spacious enough to comfortably seat Ate, Kuya, Lolo and Lola. 

 

After the curtain was lifted on the Avanza just outside a restaurant in Capitol Commons, Pasig late Tuesday, it was clear the designers also improved its exterior flourishes in addition to the engine. The vehicle is more upscale-looking than the previous model, with a more stylish front grille and slightly more aggressive headlamps. 

 

A nifty new feature is the meter gauge, enhanced with an eco-indicator to help drivers achieve optimum fuel efficiency. The release also mentions that the top-of-the-line 1.5G variant rests on 15-inch alloy wheels for a sportier look. It has brown and gray color interior patterns, and a navi-ready touchscreen which is definitely the wave of the future. 

 

Owners with lesser passengers but more cargo space requirements can fold the third-row seats to make room for coolers and boxes, suitcases and professional equipment. 

 

As for safety features, Toyota says the new Avanza comes with an anti-lock braking system and a child restraint system.  

 

“Just like all the other models in Toyota’s line-up, [the Avanza] has been warmly welcomed by the public not just because of its already known features of quality, durability and reliability, but also because of its functionality and overall value,” said Toyota Motors Philippines president Michinobu Sugata at the unveiling Tuesday night. “The new model shows that the Avanza can only get better, smarter and definitely more advantageous.” 

 

The new Toyota Avanza starts at P667,000 for a 1.3J MT, and goes all the way up to P910,000 for the premium edition P1.5G AT. – VS, GMA News