Description
Toyota made a decisive step into the Indian market when it introduced the Etios in 2010, entering the budget-friendly sedan segment.
The Japanese automaker had to build a factory in India to avoid huge import taxes for cars in that country. On the other hand, Toyota didn't want to spend too much on the car's development if it wanted to stay competitive in the budget-friendly segment. Thus, it took the NBC platform from an older Yaris, reworked it, and named it EFC.
The Etios sedan featured a bold front fascia fitted with ample headlights flanking a chromed-adorned grille. On the lower bumper, the automaker added a second grille to help cool the engine. Depending on the trim level, the Etios sported a pair of fog lamps. From its profile, the small-sized sedan revealed a clean design enhanced by the turn signals incorporated into the door mirrors. A sportier version of it even received a set of aerodynamic side sills and a lower apron for the rear bumper. Its sedan shape was considered appropriate by middle-class buyers from India.
Inside, the automaker used budget-friendly materials. Etios' cloth upholstery covered the seats and part of the door cards, which was better than its competitors could do. Like the Yaris, the Etios featured a center-mounted instrument cluster placed on top of the dashboard. Lower, on the center stack, the automaker installed the buttons for the HVAC unit right under the stereo CD.
Underneath the hood, Toyota installed its old 1.2-liter gasoline engine paired with a five-speed manual for the base models. Yet, those who wished for a punchier engine could get a 1.5-liter gasoline or a 1.4-liter turbo-diesel.
