Toyota Etios Diesel VXD

The Toyota Etios Diesel VXD is a refreshed version of Toyotas entry-level sedan, designed to appeal more to personal car buyers while retaining its popularity in the taxi-fleet market. The exterior features a new front bumper, a high-mounted grille, and black inserts in the chin area, giving it a slightly sportier look. The 1.4-litre diesel engine produces 68 horsepower and 170 Nm of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual gearbox. Inside, the cabin is spacious with comfortable front and rear seats, ample legroom, and a large boot. Safety features include ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, and ISOFIX child-seat mounts. The vehicle also benefits from reduced noise and vibration levels thanks to improved insulation and hydraulic engine mounts. Overall, its a practical, reliable, and fuel-efficient sedan that is well-suited for Indian driving conditions.

The Toyota Etios Diesel VXD is a practical and reliable sedan that excels in areas where many Indian buyers prioritize - space, fuel efficiency, and low running costs. While it may not win any beauty contests or drag races, its straightforward design and robust build make it a solid choice for those seeking a no-frills, dependable vehicle. The interior, though not the most modern or feature-rich, offers ample legroom and a massive 592-litre boot, making it ideal for family use or taxi services. However, the diesel engines noise and vibration, although improved with additional insulation, can still be intrusive. Overall, its a well-built car that promises a hassle-free ownership experience, backed by Toyotas reputation for reliability.

Toyota has announced the discontinuation of the Platinum Etios sedan, including the Diesel VXD variant, due to rising competition and declining sales. This move marks the end of an era for a car known for its reliability and low maintenance costs. I believe this decision will allow Toyota to focus on more competitive models in the Indian market.

The Toyota Platinum Etios Diesel VXD was recently updated with a comprehensive cosmetic and mechanical overhaul, including a new V-shaped grille, reworked bumper, and improved suspension to address issues like higher NVH levels and vibrations. These changes aimed to enhance performance and ride quality. I think these updates made the car more appealing, but it was still overshadowed by newer models.

Toyota introduced extended warranties for the Platinum Etios, including the Diesel VXD variant, offering five years/1.80 lakh km and seven years/1.40 lakh km coverage. This move was seen as a significant value addition, making the car more attractive to safety-conscious and budget-friendly buyers. I believe this was a smart move to boost sales, but ultimately, it wasnt enough to save the model.

The Platinum Etios Diesel VXD was praised for its fuel efficiency, delivering a mileage of 23.59 kmpl, making it a favorite among those looking for economical options. However, its engine and transmission, although reliable, were not as powerful as some of its competitors. I think the fuel efficiency was a major selling point, but the lack of power was a significant drawback.

Toyota separated the lower spec fleet market version of the Platinum Etios from the one sold exclusively to private buyers, including the Diesel VXD variant. This strategy aimed to better cater to different market segments. I believe this was a good strategy, but it came a bit late to make a significant impact on sales.

The Toyota Etios Diesel VXD is priced competitively in the Indian market. Ex-showroom prices in Delhi range from approximately Rs 8.07 lakh to Rs 8.98 lakh. When you factor in the on-road costs, including registration, insurance, and other taxes, the price can go up to around Rs 9.5 lakh to Rs 10.5 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. This pricing makes the Etios VXD a viable option for those looking for a budget-friendly sedan with good fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs. However, the lack of modern features and the dated interior design might make some buyers consider other options in the same price bracket.

The Toyota Etios Diesel VXD offers impressive fuel efficiency, which is a significant selling point in the Indian market. With an ARAI-certified mileage of 23.59 kmpl, this sedan is one of the most fuel-efficient options in its class. In real-world driving conditions, I have observed that it can deliver around 20-22 kmpl, which is still very commendable. This makes it an excellent choice for those concerned about running costs, especially for long-distance driving or for use in taxi services.