Toyota will be launching the Etios and Etios Liva with diesel power later this week (9th September) and till date everyone was expecting a 76 BHP oil burner to power these India made models. Toyota is using the same 1.4-liter D-4D motor which does duty in the Corolla Altis, sans the variable geometry turbo. Thus the Etios twins will produce 68 BHP of power in diesel guise, which will help the car achieve close to 22 kmpl of mileage as certified by ARAI. Dealers have already commenced the bookings of the diesel models and you too can book yours for Rs. 50,000/-.
We don’t understand why Toyota chose to reduce power further, with the competition offering more power in their machines. The Indigo Manza which can give the Etios sedan a run for its money when it comes to space, comes with a 90 BHP version of the famous Fiat Multijet engine. Futhermore, quality of the Manza is on par with the Toyota if not better. When it comes to hatchbacks, the Etios Liva doesn’t have any significant advantage either. Most hatchbacks are bought by users in the age bracket of 25-35 years of age and the Liva is not at all appealing to the youth. Toyota should consider getting the Yaris hatchback, before its too late.
Source – CarWale
