The Toyota-Suzuki joint venture has already debuted many products in South Africa, India, and other international markets. The Toyota Vitz hatch in South Africa is the most recent version. It is a rebadged version of the current-generation Maruti Celerio, offered for sale in our market. The Vitz in South African markets will replace the Agya hatchback.
The Toyota Vitz and the current-generation Celerio have the same general appearance. The inclusion of Toyota and Vitz insignia is the only discernible modification. Pictures of the interior have yet to be made public. No significant improvements over the Celerio are anticipated for the cabin. But Toyota may change the colour of the upholstery and the Toyota emblem on the steering wheel.
The hatchback is propelled by a 1.0-litre K10C, 3-cylinder dual jet petrol engine with twin VVT and Idle Start-Stop technology. This engine can generate 89Nm of torque and 65.7bhp of power. A 5-speed manual and an AMT are available as options for transmission. One of the most fuel-efficient gasoline vehicles available on the market is the Celerio. It is stated to have a fuel efficiency of 25.23 km with a manual transmission, compared to a verified mileage of 26.68 km for the AMT version.
The Toyota Vitz’s boot will hold 313 litres, much like the Celerio. The vehicle is equipped with features like a 7-inch SmartPlay Studio infotainment system with smartphone navigation, an engine starts/stop button, a multi-functional steering wheel, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, keyless entry, hill hold assist with AMT, dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and brake assist, among others.
Toyota sells the Rumion MPV in the South African market based on the Ertiga. This model will also be introduced in our market this year if reports are to be believed. Additionally, in 2023 Toyota will introduce its version of the new Maruti Suzuki Fronx in India.