Although, Toyota’s Etios Liva hatchback is doing some good numbers, the company wants to enhance the car to attract the youth. Young customers choose the popular Maruti Suzuki Swift and thus, the company will bring in some upgrades to the existing model of the Etios Liva hatchback to attract them. The company is planning several upgrades, one among them being already seen in the recently launched limited edition Liva TRD Sportivo. This version got a sporty touch with a body kit and few graphics. By 2013, another minor facelift is expected where in the car would get some changes to its headlights and bumpers. Interiors too are expected to get some minor upgrades.
However, the best part of this upgrade would be the use of the 1.5-litre engine. Thus, we would see a much more powerful Liva on roads. This 1.5-litre engine would produce 90 BHP of power which is way above the power output of the existing 1.2-litre engine which stands at 79 BHP. The 1.5-litre Etios Liva is also expected to house the Sportivo’s body kit. The interiors would be improved and wider tyres will be used. However, it would be priced above the 1.2-litre version. The existing version of the Etios Liva is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine. It is available in 3 variants namely J, G and V where in the top-model offers ABS and airbags. It is priced from Rs. 3.99 lakhs onwards.
At one end, Volkswagen has discontinued the Polo 1.6 as not many buyers opt for a powerful petrol car. While Toyota is betting big on wooing the enthusiasts, it remains to be seen how many opt for the Etios Liva hatchback with the 1.5-litre engine from the Etios sedan. Probably Toyota could offer the Corolla’s diesel engine in the Etios Liva, which would be a very practical option.
Source – Autocar India