Toyota Etios Liva

2016’s facelift did serve to uplift the Etios Liva’s look and the spruced-up cabin is more inviting too, even if it’s still far from being plush. And whether you like the detail or not, the centrally-stacked instruments do give the Liva’s cabin some distinction. As ever, seat comfort is good and space is impressive, by hatchback standards.
A low kerb weight helps performance, although both engines are at their best in bustling traffic. The 80hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine isn’t quick off the line but responds well to part throttle inputs. On the other hand, the 68hp, 1.4-litre diesel is very tractable and builds speed with ease but doesn’t have the punch for quick highway overtakes. High-speed manners are fine though the ride is a bit jiggly at low speeds. Also, the light steering requires many turns, lock-to-lock.

Typical hatchback buyers might not have enough running to justify the additional cost of going for the more efficient but significantly pricier diesel Etios Liva. In effect, it’s the petrol Etios Liva that will fit the bill for most buyers. Our pick of the range is the Etios Liva petrol in mid-spec V-trim. It gets dual airbags and ABS as standard, and also includes an audio system with Bluetooth.