With Ford Figo doing brisk business, the competition in India's compact car segment has heated up. As the Figo has been specifically made for developing countries, it is natural to watch if Toyota's Etios hatchback, made with the average Indian car owner in mind and expected to be launched in a couple of months, can match the Figo's popularity.
Sandeep Singh, deputy managing director (marketing), Toyota Kirloskar Motors, says the Etios hatchback “will change the complexion of the game.” Etios will be competing with cars in the Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh price band, which are aplenty. Given the steep challenge, Toyota has to clearly pull a rabbit out of the hat. And, Sandeep says it will.
“The hatchback has been developed after patiently studying the Indian compact car market. We factored in Indian road conditions and the preferences of the average Indian car owner, before setting to work on Etios. Higher ground clearance, a spacious interior and remarkable fuel efficiency are what he expects of a car. The Etios provides these features and a lot more that he will appreciate.”
On the styling, Sandeep says the Etios has its own unique look, just as the other compact cars have their own. He adds, “At Toyota, we provide service along with style. Toyota's responsibility towards the customer does not end with the sale of a car. We are exemplary in providing after-sales service. This quality gives the Etios added lustre.”
