Fresh-faced Etios Sprints into Town

After discontinuing the Tazz, Toyota set about introducing consumers to the Etios, their all new city runabout. Sales have exceeded 900 000 units since going on sale, and the Etios has just been given a fresh new look for 2017.

Toyota is also proud to introduce the Etios Sprint, not so much a new model but rather a flashy new derivative of the popular entry-level city car replacing the outgoing X-models.

The Etios Sprint Hatch and Etios Sprint Sedan have now been added to the existing Etios-lineup. The Sprint features a revised grille, new front and rear bumper treatments, and a set of 15-inch alloy wheels and a carbon fibre-look ‘Sprint’-badge to spice up the exterior.

The 1.5l-petrol engine has been retained and makes for some enthusiastic driving in and around town, and is surprisingly strong at freeway speeds. Treat it nicely and the Etios will return fuel economy in spades, sipping just 5.9l per 100km, from a powerplant that delivers 66kW and 132Nm.

Possibly one of the most surprising things about the Etios, is that it’s deceptively quick. Speeds in excess of 160km are attainable, but not recommended.

The interior is sparse, yet welcoming, with everything you need to commute around town. On launch, the air-conditioner worked especially hard to keep the 40-degree temperature at bay. The seats are hard, yet not uncomfortable, while the rest of the interior feels hard-wearing, yet not ‘plasticky’.

One point of criticism would be the centrally-mounted instrument binnacle. Because of its positioning and its styling, it’s difficult to read at a glance. This is a distraction from the road ahead.

The drive is enjoyable, the engine peppy, and if the traffic isn’t too bad, you may find yourself cracking a smile while piloting this little car around town.

Models and pricing

Hatch

1.5 Xi	R163 900
1.5 Sprint	R172 600
1.5 Cross	R194 300

                                      
Sedan

1.5 Xi	R172 200
1.5 Sprint	R180 500

All Etios models come with a 2-year/30 000 kilometre service plan, backed by a 3-year/100 000 kilometre warranty.