2023 Toyota Vios makes first left-hand-drive debut in Laos

After making its global launch in The Land of Smiles a few months ago as the 2023 Yaris Ativ (AKA the Vios), the next-generation B-segment sedan is now available in Laos. Not only does this make them the second market to get the all-new Vios, but they are also the first left-hand drive (LHD) market for the 2023 Vios.

Visually speaking, it gets the same exterior design as the Yaris Ativ for the Thai market. From the Corolla-inspired front end to the fastback profile as well as the wraparound LED taillights and massive grille, the Laos-spec Vios looks no different than the one offered in Thailand. Perhaps the only difference it has are the 16-inch alloy wheels, which come with a more slanted look.

As mentioned earlier, the 2023 Vios for Laos is the market to get the brand new sedan in LHD form. Despite the difference in the steering wheel layout, it pretty much comes with the same level of features as its Thai counterpart. From the digital instrument cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel, padded dashboard with contrast stitching, and free-standing touchscreen infotainment, the 2023 Vios for Laos is loaded.

Compared to the Thai market which gets a 1.2-liter Dual VVT-i engine that 94 PS with 110 Nm of torque, the one in Laos gets a slightly bigger motor. The Laos-spec Vios is powered by a 1.3-liter 1NR-VE Dual VVT-i engine that makes 98 PS and 122 Nm of torque. It is then paired to either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. If the engine sounds familiar, that's because it's the same one that currently powers certain variants of the PH-spec Vios.

With the all-new Vios now available in LHD, does this mean the Philippine market will also get it soon? Perhaps, but with the Vios locally produced at the company's Sta. Rosa factory, it might take a while since Toyota has to retool and refit the factory to build the next-generation sedan. Here's to hoping that we won't have to wait long.