07 January 2012: Toyota has a rich motorsport tradition, ranging from tough rallies and off roading events to GT Racing and Formula One. And to bring that tradition to India, Toyota in collaboration with Toyota Racing Developement (TRD) have created the Etios and Etios Liva Motorsport editions. With this car Toyota ventures into Indian motor sport for enthusiasts, which has been dominated by VW Polo R Cup for a while. A lively launch event followed by the unveiling of the car took place on Day 2 of the 11th Auto Expo 2012.
The cars are based on the Etios and the Liva platform and will have the same engine and transmission to keep costs low. The engine will be the 90bhp unit, but performance will be better because of the weight reduction. The rear seats and the front passenger seat has been removed and an anti roll bar and five point racing harness has been installed. On the exterior, a new front and rear bumper, a huge rear wing, side skirts, and integrated rear diffuser have been installed. The car will produce much more downforce and will be faster than the original, due to the its lower weight. New tires and alloy wheels have also been installed. Toyota plans to open a driving academy where they will train racers from age 15-24 yrs, so that they can promote motor sport at an all new level. An interesting launch and a new dimension to motor sport action in India!
Also displayed in the Toyota pavilion were the refreshed Innova and Fortuner, which have gained a lot of chrome, which Indian car owners seem to love! The engines will be the same and the Fortuner will get an automatic transmission option.
