Toyota Belta: The Ciaz Based Sedan

[350Z]

The rumors of Toyota Belta launch in India are doing rounds from the time Toyota discontinued the Yaris in India in September 2021. A mid-size sedan is missing from the brand's portfolio ever since and Toyota is gearing up to revive it with the launch of Belta in 2023. There's a possibility that Toyota Kirloskar might showcase it at the upcoming Auto Expo 2023 as well. Sharing some pointers on what we know so far:

• Toyota Belta is known as Yaris in North American and Australian markets and Vios in most Asian markets.
• The name “Belta” is a contraction of the Italian words “Bella Gente" which translates into “Beautiful People”.
• The Japanese carmaker had registered the “Belta” name trademark for use in India in the beginning of 2021.
• Toyota Belta (left-hand drive) production has already commenced in India and the car is exported to African and Middle-Eastern countries.
• The Belta is more or less a rebadged Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and will offer mild changes from its counterpart such as revised fascia, new alloys etc.
• Under the hood, expect the same 1.5L, 4-cylinder Petrol motor that delivers 105 PS and 138 Nm torque, mated to a 5-speed MT or 4-speed AT.
• Pricing is expected to be much more competitive compared to its chief rivals like Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia, Volkswagen Virtus etc.

Toyota Belta along with the Toyota Rumion (Maruti Suzuki Ertiga-based MPV), which is also India-bound, were unveiled in Uganda last week.

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350Z