149,000 units and counting for Toyota’s beloved hatch
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has developed the Toyota Wigo as one of the most-loved cars in the country.
Last year, it sold 14,306 units, being the sixth best-selling vehicle nameplate, locally.
In total, it has sold over 149,000 units since the vehicle’s debut in the local market in 2014. And with the recent launch of the all-new Toyota Wigo held at the Trinoma Activity Center in Quezon City, this number keeps on getting better.
“This is a very exciting launch for us at Toyota Motor Philippines because we know that the Wigo is one of the favorite Toyota models of Filipinos. The Wigo has given many new car buyers their memorable first car experience. In fact, we have given thrill and joy to more than 149,000 Wigo owners since the model was introduced in the country in 2014,” TMP president Atsuhiro Okamoto said.
Brief preview
During a preview of the vehicle around Bonifacio Global City, Taguig prior the Wigo’s official launch, some motoring journalists were able to personally get behind the wheel of this small hatchback, even briefly.
At the onset, the vehicle now is sleeker and more refined compared to its predecessor. Its front fascia is chinkier and nose longer with the sharper edges of its bumper, lines and wheel arches. These are complemented by its black front grille, together with its splittype LED headlamps and illumination LED fog lamps.
At its rear are its stylish halogen combination lamps and nifty spoiler for the top-tier.
It even has a wider stance, having a more planted feel of the road. True enough, according to paper, it’s now measured 3,760mm by 1,655mm by 1,515mm, making it bigger and wider than the Wigo of old.
Capping it, meantime, are 14-inch wheels.
Inside, the added space on the outside is felt with a palpable improvement in cargo space, making the vehicle more convenient and comfortable for all its occupants.
Dark hues, meanwhile, make the whole interior design, complemented by its fabric seats.
For the top-tier, functions like electronic power steering type, smart keyless entry, and push start ignition system are being offered. While together with the mid-tier, eight-inch display audio, ready for Apple Carplay and Android Auto are made available.
The mid and top variants come in new CVT for a superb upgrade in driving experience. This gives the driver a more fulfilling yet fuel-efficient drive.
For the Wigo J base variant, on the other hand, a manual tranny is being offered.
They go with SRS airbags and two Isofix Tether Anchors, vehicle stability control and hill start assist.
Powering the newest Wigo is the familiar 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 67hp and 89N-m of torque.
The vehicle model comes in Red Mica Metallic 2, Orange Metallic 3, Yellow SE, Silver Metallic 4, Gray Metallic and White 2 colors. It is priced as follows: Wigo G-P729,000; Wigo E- P684,000 ans Wigo J-P609,000.
