Toyota created the Etios series for personal buyers but surprisingly it did not do well in the personal vehicle space despite being very affordable and spacious. Instead it has created a unique identity of itself in the commercial vehicle space and is selling good numbers there with the taxi and fleet operators for the sedan version. While Toyota was unhappy with the unexpected outcome initially, now it seems to be getting used to it and is satisfied with the performance of Etios series. Toyota is also exporting the Etios twins to other international markets from India, including South Africa.
Taking one step further to establish a diversified identity it is considering developing a crossover model based on the platform of Toyota Etios series. The Etios Crossover will equip the same engine as on the Etios but with improved power and torque outputs. The car is likely to come with two engine options: a 1.5 litre MPFI petrol engine and a 1.4 litre CRDI diesel engine.
The compact SUV space in the Indian market is getting a lot of attention from manufacturers across the world. Renault is the first brand who launched their compact SUV Duster in the market, thereby establishing a new segment. Then entered the recently added Quanto from Mahindra which has been launched in September in India. The third one would be Ford, who plans to launch the attractive Ford EcoSport in early 2013. This is getting even more interesting as Volkswagen is working on a Polo based crossover, while Honda is also working on Honda HR-V, a smaller CR-V.
Although the company hasn’t spoken on the Etios Crossover yet, it is certain that the car will be brought to India as soon as the production starts. The Etios series was created for developing markets and soon the company will launch the twins in the Brazilian market. The company also exports the two to the South African market. If the brand really wants to enjoy better revenues, it will have to launch new products across the globe and it is actually doing the same.
The feasibility study for the Etios Crossover has already started in the Indian car market and we sure it will not be too late before the car shows up.
Source – Gaadi.com
