Toyota launches all-new Vitz

The Vitz takes Toyota’s small car offering to a whole new level as it combines funky styling with more pragmatic considerations that are in tune with the needs of savvy consumers.

The all-new Vitz is Toyotas latest entrant into the small car segment and reinforces the Japanese automakers strategy of providing the right product at the right time, in all segments of the market.

In a cash strapped post-COVID environment affordability and low running costs are now very much top of mind for most people when purchasing a new car. This has accelerated the growth of the A, sub-B and B segments of the South Africa new car market, which now accounts for 64% of the total passenger car market.

The Vitz takes Toyota’s small car offering to a whole new level as it combines funky styling with more pragmatic considerations that are in tune with the needs of savvy consumers. This includes a larger cabin, class-leading cargo space, enhanced specification, additional safety features and a low price.

The Vitz offers punchy performance thanks to its low weight, nimble handling, courtesy of front McPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension and unbelievably virtuous fuel economy.

Under the bonnet

Under the bonnet is a free-revving three-cylinder engine that boasts 49kW and 89Nm, the latter available from 3 500rpm. This engine is paired to a five-speed manual gearbox or an Automated Manual Transmission. Toyota claim that manual models will use just 4,4 litres per 100km while the AMT uses just 4,2 litres per 100km.

Modern styling

The Vitz features softly contoured lines punctuated by bold swept back headlights, teardrop rear light clusters and a distinctive grille dissected by a single chrome line. Unique detailing on the range-topping XR models enhances the aesthetic by adding niceties such as front fog lamps, glossy smoked 15-inch alloys as well as colour coded door handles and mirrors.

Spacious interior

A spacious interior with ample front and rear legroom belies its compact dimensions. Interior space is further bolstered by a large 295 litre boot and enhancing functionality is a 60/40 split rear seat that further increases loading capacity.

Elevating the interior design are several unique touches. The instrument nacelle is dominated by a roulette-wheel inspired speedo along with a circular TFT that houses the rev counter and trip computer. The dashboard features a swoopy design with contrasting carbon-fibre-look insert in line with the infotainment system for some visual relief. This insert continues on the door panels. Silver satin-finish flourishes adorn the speedo, rotary ventilation dials and circular air vents, while the vent sliders are tipped with chrome. Power steering and standard rear parking sensors make light work of driving and parking the Vitz.

Standard convenience features include, air-conditioning, steering wheel controls for telephony and audio functions and electric mirrors. In addition, XR models are fitted with central locking, electric windows, a four-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, USB as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.

Safety first

All Vitz models are fitted with a variety of safety features which include ABS with EBD as well as Vehicle Stability Control. Hill-Assist Control is a standard feature on AMT models.

Occupant safety is taken care of by a comprehensive package of standard equipment which includes dual front driver and passenger airbags, pretensioners with force limiters for the front seatbelts, child locks and Isofix child restraint systems. Ensuring additional peace of mind are rear parking sensors, an immobiliser with integrated alarm and remote door locking.

Model range and pricing

All Vitz models are sold with a two-year/30 000km service plan and a two-year/100 000km warranty.

Vitz 1.0 MT                             R189 900

Vitz 1.0 XR MT                       R219 900

Vitz 1.0 XR AMT                     R239 900