Toyota Veloz previewed in full; here’s what makes it different from the new Alza

KUALA LUMPUR: This month we have already seen two big highly-awaited launches in the Malaysian market; first Honda rolled out the new HR-V and then Perodua unboxed the new Alza. Well, now our eyes are on another significant launch that is likely to happen very soon. We are talking about the Toyota Veloz, which dons in a Blue Metallic paint and a black roof in the recently revealed official images.

Replacement for the Avanza, the Veloz is based on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture. It features a more premium exterior and interior design compared to its non-identical twin Perodua Alza.

On the exterior, we see a large and distinctive hexagonal-shaped grille edged by angular LED headlamps with sequential indicators. The T-shaped chrome accents surround the fog lamp while a long chrome strip runs all the way under the clamshell bonnet. Towards the rear, we can notice the similarly-sized tail lights as the Alza, however, a rugged-looking faux skid plate and a trim piece bearing a red bar differentiate it from the P2 model. The upcoming MPV also rides on bigger 17-inch wheels.

The cabin looks more sophisticated with a soft-touch dashboard in place of the hard plastic we get inside the Alza. The dash layout and air vents are also styled differently, while the AC controls are also exclusive with circular dials. Here, the trimmings on the door panels and dash are finished in light grey instead of black.

Besides cosmetic changes, the Toyota model also gets better equipment with a single-zone automatic air-conditioning system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity (only wired Android Auto available with the top-spec Alza), ambient lighting and a Qi wireless charger. For the latter, the centre console has an open storage area just ahead of controls for the electronic parking brake and auto brake hold.

As for the mechanical setup, the Toyota Veloz is likely to mimic the Alza with a 2NR-VE 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-popper petrol engine coupled with a front-wheel-drive dual-mode CVT gearbox. Just like the drivetrain, the safety kit of the Japanese MPV is also likely to be identical to the Alza.

Looking for the Toyota Veloz price? Well, we still have the tentative figure in hand, which is RM 95,000.

Also read: Sales Report: UMW Toyota performance in 1H22