Toyota Veloz

Mini Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) Toyota Avanza has been in the automotive market since 2003. It has gained popularity and trust over the years because of its exemplary performance despite its affordable price point. By the time, Toyota Motor Corporation announced that some markets, including the Philippines, will no longer have its top-of-the-line variant Toyota Avanza Veloz, as the Veloz gained its nameplate.



History
The Veloz was the top-of-the-line variant of the previous versions of Toyota Avanza, but not anymore, as Toyota gave it its nameplate this 2022. The Japanese automaker promotes the 2022 Veloz as a premium version of the Avanza. The most noticeable change Toyota has made to the Veloz is its aesthetic appeal, as the company has said that its goal was to make a more premium and comfortable Avanza. The powertrain system and several components are almost the same. It means that you cannot expect an upscaled performance in the Veloz.



Variant and Price

Externally, the Veloz looks similar to the Avanza, but is sleeker thanks to a redesigned front end and a fancier grille.

body lines
The Veloz's masculine appearance is enhanced by thick lines and black cladding on the sides.The rear design has many tight lines, and the high claws of the shock absorber create a strong feeling.

grill
The appearance is flatter, similar to an SUV.The front is fitted with a large black honeycomb grille that glistens in the sunlight. The black and gray skid plate underneath gives the Veloz a rugged look. This makes it look decidedly sportier and more upscale.

headlights
Equipped with full LED headlights with sequential turn signals and daytime running lights.

Taillights
Taillights extend the full length of the tailgate。Equipped with full LED rear combination lights for a bold and unique look.

wheel
It is fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels. Stiff alloy spokes exude character.

Toyota outfitted the crossover with a black fabric-and-leather mix cabin, a gray roof, and surrounding white trim. White elements extend from the front seats to the door panels and even the center console.Not only that, but all seven seats on the Veloz feature a diamond stitching pattern, which adds a more premium feel to the crossover.

Infotainment is via a nine-inch display panel with smartphone connectivity provided by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; wired and wireless on both counts (the Alza in top AV form maxes out with wired Android Auto). Wireless charging is via a charging pad of the Qi 2.4 wireless standard; further mobile devices can be charged through three USB charging ports in the cabin of the Veloz. Also on are two 12-volt power sockets, one of which is located near the window for the third-row seats.

Cabin cooling is courtesy of an automatic air-conditioning system, while second- and third-row occupants benefit from the ceiling-mounted rear vents with its own fan control switch.

There are some 15 drink holders located throughout the cabin of the Veloz.

Safety features
At this price point, few seven-passenger crossovers offer the technology and safety features that the Toyota Veloz has. Most notable is Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), the Japanese brand's answer to market demand for active safety features and driver assistance systems.

Standard TSS (Toyota Safety Sense) includes:
Pre-Collision System: Alerts the driver of a potential frontal collision and mitigates the impact of the collision.
Lane Departure Prevention System: Alerts you if you accidentally leave your lane. Apply corrective steering if needed.
Forward Departure Alert: If the driver does not notice that the car ahead has started to move, an audible and visual alert will sound.

And full airbag deployment for driver, passenger and side curtains.

As for technology, the Veloz has an 8- or 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, a six-speaker sound system, and a smart keyless entry system with push-start ignition.

The list of tech features also includes electronic stability control, hill-start assist, speed-sensing door locks, and a reversing camera with rear parking sensors. Top-of-the-line models even come with a wireless charger, a surround view monitor, and an electronic parking brake with auto hold.

Space

The Veloz, like the Avanza, seats 7 people. The Veloz makes more use of the seats, the sides, the premium feel of the infotainment system, and the little things that Toyota paid so much attention to, like the AC vents, the charging socket at the rear of the vehicle, and the little nooks and crannies. Plus, there's a sofa mode that lets you recline the middle seat all the way to the back, turning it into a sort of footstool when you're sitting in the third row.

Powertrain

Engine and Transmission
The Toyota Veloz is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine paired with a CVT to produce 105 hp and 138 Nm of torque in front-wheel drive configuration. Same as the Toyota Avanza, except the Avanza's engine is diesel powered.

Experience ultimate comfort and convenience with the car's impressive features, including a 7.0-inch digital instrument panel, standard wireless charging, electric parking brake, electric power steering, and controllable air conditioning system. The cloth and leather combined seats add an extra touch of luxury to your ride.

Enhanced stability awaits you with the new comfort suspension, designed to reduce vibrations and deliver a smooth journey, even on rough roads. Say goodbye to bumpy rides and enjoy a more pleasant driving experience.

Equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine and a CVT transmission. With 105 hp and 138 Nm of torque, this front-wheel drive configuration delivers a thrilling performance.

But what truly sets the Toyota Veloz apart is its impressive fuel economy, inherited from the renowned Avanza. Sharing similar powertrain components, including the engine and transmission, the Veloz offers an efficient output. Toyota claims an impressive 20.8 kilometers per liter on mixed city and highway drives, making it a great choice for fuel-conscious drivers. Of course, various factors can influence actual fuel consumption, but rest assured, the Veloz is designed to help you conserve fuel without compromising on power.

The Veloz is a premium version of the beloved Avanza. Designed with young professionals and families in mind, this vehicle shares many component specifications with its counterpart. However, the Veloz stands out with its striking front fascia and enhanced safety features, earning it well-deserved recognition.