Read this in The Manila Times digital edition.
THERE'S a new subcompact in Toyota's small SUV line. The Veloz — derived from the English word "velocity" and the Spanish "velocidad," meaning "fast" — is a twin spawn of the highly popular Avanza.
To be marketed as an upscale alternative, the Veloz is meant for adventurous families and friends so they can "go more than ever."
Toyota says it "prioritized comfort and convenience in designing the Veloz's spacious cabin, and along with the excellent performance ready to take on the demands of users seeking thrill and excitement of their daily drives, comes life-enhancing safety features for added protection and peace of mind."
From the looks of it, the Veloz exudes a more premium feel, with design and style taking heavily from the Avanza. It is a 7-seater MPV that boasts of modern yet striking inside accoutrement while exuding sumptuous luxury of an SUV.
Compared with the Avanza, the front fascia bumper, front hood, front- and rear-quarter panels of the Veloz have been redesigned to distinguish itself from the Avanza, while the addition of faux roof rails creates a crossover-inspired look.
"The arrival of the all-new Veloz is very timely. With the reopening of the economy, and destinations all over the country already welcoming travelers, it is Toyota's goal to address the ever-growing need of Filipinos to move together with thrill and joy. And so, we introduce this new subcompact SUV perfect for families and friends seeking to discover new adventures," Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) President Atsuhiro Okamoto said during the recent launch event. Assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia Plant 2 in Karawang, West Java, the Veloz is also sold in Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam.
Both the 1.5V and 1.5G variants come with a 4-cylinder, dual VVT-i gasoline engine and are available in CVT transmission with three drive modes (Normal, Eco and Sport). The V CVT variant comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense features and it is fronted by a modern-looking front grille accented by split-type LED headlamps with sequential turn signals. Complementing this is an equally commanding rear with LED line guide back door garnish.
Distinct external features include auto-fold rear-view mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, an over fender to accentuate the SUV design, as well as keyless smart entry and push start systems.
On the center console is a multi-information display with Apple Carplay and Android Auto wireless smartphone charging and connectivity capabilities.
Ambient lighting complements the overall feel of the interior, accented by fabric and synthetic leather for the seats which are made more comfortable and spacious. A long sofa mode is an added option.
Safety features include pre-collision system, automatic high beam, and lane departure alert, panoramic view monitor and rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, hill start assist control, rear disc brakes, six supplemental restraint system airbags, and electronic parking brakes with auto hold.
The all-new Veloz comes in two variants and is available in TMP's 72 dealers nationwide, starting at P1,185,000 for the 1.5G CVT and P1,225,000 for the 1.5V CVT. Available colors are Dark Red Mica Metallic, Black Metallic 1, Purplish Silver Mica Metallic and Platinum White Pearl Mica.