Toyota Wigo

Overview

It was only in the year 2017 that Toyota introduced the all-new Wigo in the Philippines. The hatch came in all stylish and improved on all imaginable fronts and went on to become a raging success. It is one of the top-selling cars in the Philippines. The little hatchback from Toyota is considered as the perfect pick for the first-time buyers. The recently mild makeover that the Wigo received gives it a modern appeal while making it better equipped than before. The Toyota Wigo is offered in one single engine option. However, it does get both manual and automatic transmission options. The updated Wigo is offered in three trim options, namely - 1.0 VVT-i G A/T, 1.0 VVT-i G M/T, and 1.0 VVT-i E M/T. Paint schemes available for this Toyota hatchback includes both vibrant and sublet options like Orange Metallic, Red, White, Silver Metallic, Gray Metallic, and Black. Overall, the Wigo is a tough competitor to fight in the segment and with the Toyota badge the attraction only doubles.

Interior & Features

Toyota Wigo interior feels like it has been designed keeping the cost-conscious audience in mind, which is true. The overall interior setup features a very functional design, which might not appeal many at first, but it gradually grows on to the user.

Hopping to the driver’s arena, the steering features a fundamental three-spoke design. However, the silver accents for top two spokes along with the steering mounted audio controls (available in the top-end trim only) surely add newness and premiumness to the design. The instrument console has been styled to perfection with dedicated slots for various information. The long and vertical centre console has a bit of a simple cum outdated design, and only the presence of silver accent and touchscreen infotainment system in the top-end variant make it look trendy and save the day.

For an entry-level car, Toyota has equipped the Wigo reasonably well with features like a new touchscreen head unit with Navi-ready display, audio, AM/FM/CD/MP3, AUX/USB connectivity, and four speakers, premium quality fabric upholstery. Besides, the hatch also features power blessed steering, windows, door locks, and outer rear view mirror.

What’s furthermore impressive is the amount of space and adjustable seating configurations that are on offer. The Wigo offers a total of five seating arrangements, thus allowing the users to take full advantage of the space and seat. Also, the cabin has many small storage spaces and bottle holders that only enhances its practicality. The boot space is pretty generous and can take in a weekend trip worth of luggage for a family of four.

Exterior

Compared to the previous-generation Toyota Wigo, whose prime focus is to be an affordable entry-level hatch, the updated model looks modern with all the right styling additions. It will undoubtedly appeal to those who are out looking for a statement-making hatchback, though in a subtle manner. Its focus is clear, i.e. to be in sync with the current demand, and therefore, is created with features that prevent the Wigo from feeling a dated, cheap hatch. As for the dimensions, the all-new Toyota Wigo specification sheet reads 3660 x 1600 x 1520 mm of length, width, and height respectively.

Starting from the front, the Toyota Wigo features a slim single-slate chrome grille, which gets premium looking company’s moniker at the centre. Following the grille is the large faux air-vent setup that gives Wigo an easily recognizable face. The big-sized swept-back headlamp units are just adjacent to the grille and come fitted with projector units. The inverted V-shaped fog lamps housing lend it a modern touch. Further, the hood comes with two bold contour lines that only enhances its appeal.

The Toyota Wigo has a boxy stance from the sides which looks a bit uninspiring. Unlike the front there is a complete absence of any sharp character lines on the doors, thus making it feel bland in isolation. However, there are a couple of premium bits like alloy wheels and ORVM with turn indicators, which add a little zing to the otherwise monotonous side profile.

At the rear, the revamped Wigo has got a few noticeable design changes. Not only the Toyota hatch now features a new pair of taillights, but there’s also a sharper bumper. All these changes surely uplift the appeal of the car when viewed from the back. The roof spoiler and high mounted stop lamp (exclusive to top-spec trim) add sportiness to the otherwise plain rear end of the car.

Ride & Handling

The Toyota Wigo gets simple Mac Pherson struts with coil springs suspension at the front, and a semi-independent Torsion Axle with coil springs does duty at the rear. Given its prime focus on the city driving along with its compact dimensions, the suspension setup on the Wigo has been on the softer side. The steering though feels heavy, is fun to drive. On the road, Wigo feels better-damped and steadier. Also, thanks to the new Bridgestone Ecopia tires that ensure a quieter ride along with imparting the driver with grip and confidence.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

One of the significant changes seen in the updated Wigo is the new engine unit. Toyota has replaced the old 1KR-DE with new 1KR-VE that gains Variable Valve Timing over the former. With the displacement remaining same, this new change has a dramatic impact on the fuel economy. The 998cc 3-cylinder in-line, 12V DOHC with VVT-i gasoline powered mill produces a maximum power of 66 PS along with a peak torque of 89 Nm. Transmission options include both 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic unit; the Wigo feels like a breeze to drive. As for the mileage, with the four-speed automatic, this engine delivers 9 -11 kmpl in the city and 25 kmpl on the highway. It is in the fuel economy department where Wigo falls short of its competitors that promise figures as high as 26 kmpl.

Braking & Safety

The Toyota Wigo is targeted at entry-level car buyers. And this fact is quite evident from the hatch’s clear focus on comfort and convenience over safety features. However, with the presence of dual SRS front airbags, ABS with EBD, front seat belt with pre-tensioners, and force limiters, and child lock protection, the Wigo has all the basics covered which are decent enough for a car of this grade and price.

Verdict

The Toyota Wigo feels tailor-made for the masses, its value for money and modern appeal is a big thumbs up. While the overall cabin design and feature front might feel a bit boring, it is the more practical aspects where the Wigo shines. Also, the exterior is a total  revamp in comparison to the older car and the changes can only be appreciated.  Whether its the comfort and convenience features, storage options, or the overall cabin space, the Wigo justifies the higher price and Toyota badge. Also, for an entry-level car, the engine performance and ride quality are decent. Overall, the Wigo is a perfect value-for-money car one could ask for.