2016 Toyota Avanza Facelift Launched in Malaysia

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd(with Android Car Gps), the distributor and assembler of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, announces the introduction of the latest Toyota Avanza with significant changes, including two brand new engines. With design changes and numerous improvements and refinements, the new model is expected to continue being among the most popular MPVs in the country (Non-National segment).

 As before, the Avanza line-up consists of four variants – Toyota Avanza 1.5S Automatic, Toyota Avanza 1.5G Automatic, Toyota Avanza 1.5E Automatic, and Toyota Avanza 1.3E Manual.

Four exterior colour choices are available for the new model: White, Silver Mica Metallic, Black Metallic and Dark Red Mica Metallic, the last two being new colours.

The powerplants for the latest Avanza are from the new NR series. Featuring Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), the engines are more efficient and have cleaner exhaust emissions than before while also generating higher output. Noise and vibrations are also lower, thanks to various measures taken in the design and use of sound-dampening materials.

While VVT-i has been available in most Toyota engines for over 15 years, Dual VVT-i has until now been available only in the more expensive or sporty models. With Dual VVT-i, optimized opening and closing of the valves is achieved on both the intake as well as exhaust ports (the previous VVT-i system only operated on the intake valves). This improves fuel efficiency further as the timing of the 16 valves is constantly adjusted to suit driving conditions and demands.

Dual VVT-i is available in both the 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre engines. For the 1.5-litre engine, power output has been increased to 105 ps while the maximum 136 Nm of torque is now available at 4,200 rpm. The 1.3-litre engine has a more significant increase of maximum power output to 97 ps, with torque increased to 121 Nm.

Besides numerous measures in the design of the new engine, the optimization of reduced oil pressure in the transmissions as well as use of electronic throttle control have improved fuel consumption from a range of 5 to 15% (depending on road, traffic, driving conditions and driving style). Additionally, if the driver wants to maximize fuel economy, there is an Eco Drive Indicator which creates better awareness of fuel-efficient driving.

For entertainment on the move, the 2-DIN system with Car DVD Player and tuner has USB, AUX connectivity and can also play MP3 media while the Bluetooth function is now standard for all 1.5L variants. Customers who wish to upgrade their system can opt for either the optional DVD-AVX or DVD-AVN audio systems. Both come with large touchscreens and reverse camera displays and the DVD-AVN includes an internet browser (requires a wifi internet connection by the user) and GPS route navigation.

To provide ride quality and handling comparable to a passenger car, the Avanza has independent MacPherson front suspension and a 5-link coil spring rear suspension that is better for heavier loads. Revisions made to the suspension settings provide improved handling and stability as well as ride comfort. The driver will also notice improved steering feel and better straight-line stability at high speeds.

The new Avanza is equipped with a comprehensive security system that consists of an engine immobilizer, cabin sensor and siren with a back-up battery. UMW Toyota Motor also provides a portable tyre pump with every Avanza for emergencies or just to adjust tyre pressures at anytime and anywhere.

As covered earlier, customized accessories for the new Avanza include a bodykit and two high-quality display audio systems. Customers can also order their vehicles with Toyota’s Essential Solar Film for a cooler interior or Premium Security and Solar Film which makes the window glass resistant to shattering when hit by a hard object. If installing an Android Car Stereo in your car, that would be great!