Launched over three-days, in Jozi’ next to Newtown- the all new Toyota Etios Cross comes with rugged looks, fluent drive and of course, fuel efficiency.
Yes, this latest SUV is in the same market as your VW Cross and if, odds are to be stacked between the two, it would be impossible to figure out.
Toyota SA Glenn Crompton, Vice President of Marketing, says: “its like efficiency and typical crossover styling traits at an affordable price point.”
The word ‘budget’ was a tag line as punted by one of the company’s spokesperson. And yes, Etios Cross is a budget car considering its price value and fuel capacity.
Says Crompton:” It marks our entry into yet another category in the diverse and fast growing sub-B segment of the car market. The expressive Etios family now comprises a sedan, a hatch, and the youthfully rugged Cross in its budget-oriented arsenal.
Naturally it also comes with the globally renowned promise of Toyota’s QDR (Quality, Durability & Reliability) standards.”
As we took it for a ride from the OR Tambo International -snaking through industrial areas and some unknown suburbs- we landed up in Jozi for the actual launch, which according to Toyota SA, was for radio and digital journos. Aha…
According Clynton Yon, spokesperson for Toyota SA, (who was our back seat guest) -in less than two years, Etios has racked up sales in excess of 45000 units and in the process has become entrenched in the South African automotive lexicon, regularly charting on the top three bestsellers list.
The engine performance boast a 16-valve DOHC 1.5-litre engine and all models come standard with a five-speed manual transmission. Outputs are pegged at 66kW of power @ 5600 rpm and 132Nm of torque @ 3000 rpm. This translates into a 0-100km/h sprint time of 11,3 seconds.
Etios Cross include a roof spoiler, multi-spoke diamond-cut 15” alloys and a set of roof rails also finished in the de rigeur powdery silver. The latter are fully functional and able to support 50 kg of luggage or even a bicycle.
As for the colours it is available in two- the Etios Cross – Inferno Metallic (a vivid orange) and Jet Grey Metallic.
Included in the spacious interior are the usual features. Unfortunately, we couldn’t hit the acceleration because Clynton was on the look-out (bloody agent).
It is ideal for first time car owners…
So, since we’re awaiting our official test drive -we shall let you know how the brakes, torques and others react. We promise!
Prices ranges from R127 800 for the Etios Xi hatch (with air con), topping out at R159 800 for the new Etios Cross and comes with a 2-year / 30 000km service plan.
As Clynton indicated, this is meant for urban driving not off-road but we shall give it a test, or kanjani?
