UMW Toyota to unveil a new 'Defy' model on February 24

KUALA LUMPUR: UMW Toyota launched 5 new GR models at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend only. While the thrill of that event is yet to dissipate, the automaker has wasted no time and teased yet another fresh model and ignited a new wave of anticipation. 

The short teaser video released on the company’s website and social media focuses on the 'Defy' theme. It tells us about ‘Defy Perceptions’, ‘Defy Limits’ and ‘Defy Norm’ along with a caption that reads “Defy the limits of where your journey starts and ends. The countdown has started. Brace for it.” It also mentions a date - 24 February 2023. That’s this Friday.

But what could this 'Defy' model be? According to the market reports, the upcoming Toyota model could be the next-generation Vios which is earmarked to launch in Malaysia this year. 

The new Vios, which is already on sale in neighbouring markets, including Thailand and Indonesia, underpins a new platform called Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA). Sounds familiar? Yes, it is the same platform on which the new Toyota Veloz, new Perodua Alza, and recently launched Perodua Axia are based.

Also read: 5 things to know about the upcoming Toyota Vios

The new architecture lends the sedan a larger footprint with increased length, width, and height contributing to the passengers’ comfort inside the cabin. The new Vios also looks mature and sleek with a new front grille, angular LED headlights and L-shaped DRLs, and new LED tail light clusters. The cabin is also better equipped with more high-class soft-touch materials and comfort & convenience bits.  

The new Toyota Vios is likely to be powered by the ongoing 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, as we see in the case of the Indo-spec model. The said mill generates a maximum power output of 107 PS and a peak torque of 140 Nm. However, the carried forward mill may get paired with the new D-CVT gearbox. 

Well, it has not yet been confirmed whether the upcoming Toyota ‘Defy’ car is the new Vios or not. Thus, we will have to wait for the automaker to unveil the suspense on February 24.

Also read: Toyota Corolla Cross and Hilux get ‘GR Sport’ variant in Malaysia