The conservatively styled saloon, which the manufacturer says is aimed at middle-class consumers, is powered by an 88 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS) 1.5 litre four cylinder engine.
Although that’s not a particularly huge output, the Etios is comparatively light, with even the heaviest variant having a kerb weight of only 930 kg. Those factors mean fuel economy is very competitive, with the Toyota recording 49.7 mpg (5.6 l/100km / 17.6 km/l) on the ARAI cycle.
Four trim levels are being offered. The range kicks off with the Etios J, which costs Rs. 4.96 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). It’s very much the basic version, doing without central locking, electric windows, power steering and a tilt-adjustable steering column. All of those items are included on the Rs. 5.36 lakh Etios G, though.
Third in the line-up is the Etios V, which has a price tag of Rs. 6.41 lakh. Not only does this model get niceties such as a tachometer, audio system (with USB and aux-in), twelve-spoke alloy wheels and front fog lights, but it also features anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution and driver / front passenger airbags as standard.
Topping the range is the Rs. 6.86 lakh Etios VX. The differences compared to the V seem to be mainly cosmetic, and include audio controls mounted on a leather trimmed steering wheel and side skirts.
Regardless of which trim grade is selected, the Etios comes with air conditioning, clean air filter, cooled glove box and seven (!) 1 litre bottle holders. Boot capacity is 595 litres, while ground clearance is 170 mm.
Orders for the Etios saloon are being accepted now ahead of the first deliveries in January 2011. It will be followed by the Etios Liva, a five-door hatchback version, which will be available from April 2011.
