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The major controls and ergonomics can also cause a spell of déjà vu to anyone that’s familiar with the Echo. The basic location for every control from ventilation to hazard to even the way the parking brake is obnoxiously far below the driver are all the same. One major improvement though: the placement of the audio unit—it’s been moved up for better reach. Speaking of the audio unit, the 2-DIN Fujitsu caused a mixed-bag reaction. Some complained that it was tacky, sighting the differences in the hue of the silver trim used to line the interior and the radio. Others found it wonderful, for it combined both cassette and in-dash CD player functions—quite a rare sight in cars nowadays. In any case, the radio was relatively easy to use and understand, while the audio quality is surprisingly good, considering the car’s asking price. The fluorescent gauges were discontenting at first—giving the feeling of looking into oblivion, but they are easy to adapt to. Though most of the information are easily decipherable, the design ends up being too cluttered and some information such as the speedometer become close to useless. Despite the Vios’ tall stature, one thing that could have been improved further is the way the interior space was utilized. Though front seat leg and head room are bordering on the excellent, the shoulder room is severely lacking—often leading to unwanted shoulder rubbing with the front seat passenger, especially when yanking the hand brake. The rear bench on the other hand is only good for two, even on short city trips. With all the similarities between the Echo, Vios and the much bigger Altis, the only way, and perhaps the best way, to differ the three is in driving dynamics. Though we could only take the Vios through a looped course prepared by the folks at Toyota Motor Philippines, the difference in the way the Vios behaves is evident. |
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