Drawing inspiration from the Suzuki Celerio and stepping in for the Toyota Aygo, the new Toyota Vitz is a fierce competitor in the economical hatchback category. Originally priced at R189,900, the Vitz is now available for R169,900 according to the Toyota website. That makes it South Africa’s cheapest new car.
Keep reading to find out more about this affordable hatchback:
The 2023 Vitz comes in three variations presented in base and XR trims. The 1.0 XR model is available in manual and automated manual (automatic), with the latter being particularly suitable for individuals who frequently drive in heavy traffic.
The 1.0-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine, sourced from Suzuki, creates a modest 49 kW and 89 Nm of torque. These figures might seem unimpressive; however, considering the vehicle's lightweight at 805 kg, it possesses ample power for quick acceleration.
Reportedly, it's also quite frugal with fuel; the manually operated Vitz uses around 4.4 L/100 km on average, while its automatic counterpart is even more fuel-efficient (4.2 L/100 km). Interestingly, the Vitz boasts a fuel tank with a capacity of 32 litres, effectively granting the 5-speed model an estimated range of 727 km.
While it might not clinch the award for the trendiest design, the angular form holds a certain charm, featuring headlights with a backward sweep, droplet-shaped taillights, and an appealing front section.
The XR version offers front fog lights, door handles, and side mirrors in matching colors, along with sleek 15-inch glossy smoked alloy wheels, providing a polished overall presentation.
You'll find cloth seats within the cabin, a well-crafted dashboard featuring carbon-fibre-style inlays mimicked in the door panels, complemented by silver-satin touches encircling the speedometer, airflow knobs, and air vents.
Also present is a circular instrument cluster housing what Toyota dubs a “roulette-wheel inspired speedometer”, accompanied by a smaller embedded TFT display presenting the tachometer and trip details.
The XR model features an adjustable tilt steering wheel with buttons for audio and calls, while the rear parking sensors are part of the standard deal.
Furthermore, the XR infotainment system comes with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto functionality.
Its interior offers ample space given its dimensions, and the front seat arranged for comfort leaves sufficient legroom, even accommodating a taller rear passenger.
The city car includes a commendable 295 litres of storage capacity in the trunk, featuring a rear seat with a split of 60/40.
Despite being positioned as a base-level automobile, the construction is robust, devoid of the thin, echoing door-shut noise in specific rival models.
Considering that a lot of drivers might be new car buyers and students, safety is well-managed through ABS, EBD, Vehicle Stability Control, airbags for both driver and passenger, seat belts upfront with pretensioners involving force limiters, child locks, and ISOFIX child-restraint mechanisms.
During the Vitz's debut, Toyota SA also highlighted the Kinto One subscription service, a new car leasing option where users make a monthly payment that includes various expenses like maintenance, roadside aid, insurance, and more, allowing them to use the vehicle under a fixed period.
With the special offer, the entry level Toyota Vitz starts at R169,900, R219,900 for the XR manual, and R239,900 for the range-topper. The purchase includes a Service Plan of two years, or 30,000km, and a Warranty of three years or 100,000km. (Prices correct at time of publication.)
If you’re looking for a zippy little hatchback, be sure to check out the MotorHappy blog where we review new cars every month. An informed decision is a smart decision.
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