2022 Toyota Avanza scheduled to arrive in Thailand, followed by Malaysia?

KUALA LUMPUR: It was in November 2021 that Toyota launched the all-new Avanza in Indonesia and now we hear that the MPV is preparing to enter other ASEAN countries.

According to Headlight Magazine, the 2022 Avanza will be launched in Thailand next month, i.e., in February. Unlike the Indonesia-spec model, the third-gen seven-seater SUV in Thailand will be offered in a sole 1.5-litre engine option with CVT unit. This means no 1.3-litre and manual transmission option for Thailand.

The above-mentioned 1.5-litre engine is a naturally-aspirated Dual VVT-i four-cylinder unit generating maximum power of 106 PS at 6,000 rpm along with a peak torque of 137 Nm at 4,200 rpm. The power is sent to the wheels via a Daihatsu’s D-CVT unit that uses both belt and gear drive depending on the speed.

What we don’t know is whether or not the more upscale Veloz variant will accompany the Avanza. However, now Toyota is selling it as a separate nameplate altogether.

What does the new Avanza have on offer?

• The new Avanza rides on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) that also underpins Perodua Ativa. Meaning the construction is now changed from a semi-monocoque to a full unibody
• The earlier rear-wheel-drive layout and solid rear axle construction is changed to a more conventional front-wheel-drive with front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam

• The new DNGA platform also calls for a significant increase in dimensions. The SUV now measures 4,395 mm in length, 1,730 mm in width, and 1,665 mm in height. The wheelbase has grown by 95 mm, it reads 2,750 mm

• The new Avanza-specs kit features several striking features such as - push-button start, keyless entry, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, Qi wireless charger, a nine-inch touchscreen head unit, 360-degree camera system, and an electronic parking brake

• The safety kit has been bumped up with six airbags and stability control. The car also gets a Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assistance systems that includes - front departure alert, autonomous emergency braking, pedal misapplication control, and lane-keeping assist

When will the new 2022 Avanza arrive in Toyota?

The all-new Toyota Avanza is expected to arrive in the country very soon, so stay tuned.