5 things you should know about the upcoming Toyota Veloz

At the time of announcing its Q1 2022 sales numbers, UMW Toyota confirmed the arrival of two new models for this year. While the names of these upcoming cars are still not known officially, we firmly believe that one of them would be the all-new Veloz, i.e. the second-gen version of the Avanza. 

Along with a new name, the MPV features significant improvements inside out and under the skin. It has already been on sale in Thailand and Indonesia, thus giving us a good picture of the Malaysia-bound Veloz. So, here we bring five important things you should know about the upcoming Toyota car -

More comfortable

The new Toyota Veloz underpins the Daihatsu New Global Architecture platform, which we can also find under the Perodua Ativa. The driveline has also switched from the utilitarian rear-wheel-drive to the front-wheel-drive. The new base also comes with a more rigid unibody construction paired with MacPherson front struts and a rear torsion beam, promising a more comfortable and competent ride to the passengers compared to the ladder frame.

Bigger in size

Compared to the Avanza, the upcoming model is considerably bigger in size. Check out the previous and new measurements in the following table -

Specs	Toyota Avanza	Toyota Veloz	Difference
Length	4,190 mm	4,395 mm	Veloz is longer by 205 mm
Width	1,660 mm	1,730 mm	Veloz is wider by 70 mm
Height	1,695 mm	1,700 mm	Veloz is taller by 5 mm
Wheelbase	2,655 mm	2,750 mm	Veloz has 95 mm longer wheelbase

SUV-inspired exterior looks

When it comes to looks, the new Veloz is radically different from the previous model. It benefits from a new front fascia with a slim, two-slat hexagonal mesh grille edged by sharp-looking LED headlights. 

Adding to the SUV-inspired touches is a new centre front air intake, triangular fog light surrounds, sportier bumpers, squared-off fender flares, and a chrome strip that runs around the body. Also part of the kit is full-width tail lights, 17-inch dual-tone alloys (16-inch as standard), and roof rails. 

Upmarket and safe cabin

In order to match the modern exterior, the Veloz sports a more upmarket cabin. Everything looks striking, from the layered dashboard to silver trim lashings and large door grab handles. On the centre of the dashboard sits a new freestanding infotainment display, which measures 9.0-inch (8.0-inch as standard) and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity options. Other modern features expected to be on the 2022 Toyota Veloz specs sheet are-

• 7.0-inch digital instrument display
• Qi wireless charger
• Reverse camera (360-degree camera system on the higher-spec model)
• keyless entry and push-button start
• Electric parking brake
• Electric power steering
• Automatic air conditioning system, 
• Rear seat row with a folded flat functionality for a neater cargo bay
• Part-leatherette upholstery
• Six airbags
• Vehicle stability control
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert 
• Toyota Safety Sense ADAS pack with features like lane departure assist, pre-collision system, front departure alert, automatic high beam, and pedal misoperation control. 

Same engine setup with new D-CVT gearbox

Underneath the 2022 Toyota Veloz bonnet lies the same tried and tested 2NR-VE 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated mill that dishes out a maximum power output of 106 hp and a peak torque of 138 Nm. While the engine is the same, the gearbox is new. In place of the four-speed automatic gearbox, you will find a new D-CVT gearbox paired with a split-belt and gear drive. A five-speed manual unit is also on offer in the Indonesian market.

So, what are your thoughts on the Toyota Veloz? Would you choose it over the upcoming 2022 Perodua Alza, which is rumoured to get the same architecture. Let us know in the comments.

Also read: First GAZOO Racing Vios Sprint Cup series: Key highlights