Look at what we stumbled upon inside Low Yat Plaza! The 2016 Toyota Avanza facelift appears to be already making its rounds prior to its Malaysian launch with the middle child G variant captured here. The lineup is expected to kick off with the manual transmission-equipped E variant followed on by the 1.5E model with an automatic gearbox (the manual E is powered by a 1.3 litre engine) before the 1.5S enters to top the range off.
The rejuvenated Avanza was first launched in Indonesia in August before making its motor show debut at the 2015 Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS). First things first then, the price sheet that we have managed to obtain shows that the base manual variant will be priced from RM69,072, with on-the-road costs and insurance – an increase from RM66,072 commanded by its outgoing counterpart.
On the other hand, the 1.5E model is expected to cost RM75,787 while the G variant pictured here should be priced at RM78,477 – the range-topping 1.5S model looks set to be priced at RM80,810. All in all, we’re looking at an increase of around RM3,000 for the 1.5E and RM2,000 for the 1.5G and 1.5S models.
Other changes marked in the brochure include a difference in front and rear fascia between the lesser three variants and the flagship 1.5S model. Much like its Indonesian twin, the 2016 Toyota Avanza facelift looks set to adopt two different external outlooks with the S model getting an Avanza Veloz-inspired mesh front grille. The taillights of the 1.5S could also include the same red additions as seen on the Veloz.
Additionally, the brochure lists the addition of side skirts on the 1.5S variant. Also included on the 1.5S and 1.5G variants are 15-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 185/65 tyres. The 1.5E model gets 14-inch alloys while the entry-level 1.3E wears steel units wrapped in 185/70 tyres.
Inside, a double DIN head unit with CD player, MP3, Aux, USB and Bluetooth connectivity is offered as standard on all variants save for the base 1.3E model – that one gets a different double DIN unit that lacks Bluetooth connectivity. The top two models also receive a multi-function steering wheel while the range-topping 1.5S is further differentiated via the inclusion of a “sports-themed” instrument cluster.
Last but not least, the oily bits underneath. While we’ve yet to get a hold on official figures regarding changes to the power output, the Indonesian Avanza range is powered by a choice of either a 1.3 or 1.5 litre four-cylinder petrol engine with Dual VVT-i. The smaller mill pumps out a total of 97 hp/120 Nm of torque while the 1.5 litre engine puts out 104 hp/139 Nm – an increase of seven hp/3 Nm and two hp/3 Nm, respectively.
Thank you to reader Yoong CW for the tip!
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments on the 2016 Toyota Avanza facelift mainly criticize its design, safety features, and value for money. Many find the exterior unattractive and the interior cheap-looking with excessive plastic. Safety concerns are common, with complaints about only having two airbags and no Electronic Stability Control (ESC), despite warnings on safety standards. Several commenters suggest waiting for the Honda BRV or buying second-hand options like Honda Accord or older Avanzas for better value. There is frustration over rising prices, lack of features, and perceived low quality, with some accusing UMW of profiteering and favoritism. Overall, sentiments are largely negative, describing the car as an unsafe, unattractive, and overpriced vehicle that fails to meet Malaysian consumers' safety expectations.