Indus Motors Company (IMC) is all set to introduce 4-speed automatic transmission with the base variant of the 1.3 liter Corolla sedan, the XLi.
The Toyota Corolla XLi Automatic will be priced at PKR 20.67 lac while the bookings will commence from the Monday, the 6th of August. In addition to a 4-speed automatic transmission, the XLi Auto will also offer Dual SRS airbags, engine immobilizer, LED clearance lamps and body-colored side mirrors with integrated turn signals.
It was speculated that IMC will discontinue the 1.3 liter Corolla variants by mid 2018 and will instead introduce the Vios sedan as a replacement. But since the competition that the new Auto Policy was about to bring is nowhere to be seen, the company is contended to continue with the current offerings, however an automatic XLi is a surprise for sure.
Related: Honda Atlas Cancels the Plans to Launch the Brio Hatchback in Pakistan
Recently, it was also reported that Honda Atlas has deferred its plans to introduce the 1.2 liter Brio hatchback, despite local vendors had already started producing its parts. Reportedly vendors had also started to develop the parts for the Vios sedan but the launch plans seems to be reaching the bin as well.
The Auto Policy 2016-21 opened up doors for newcomers to explore the auto market and to generate competition in the sector, while it was aimed to bring down the prices, reduce delivery time and improve the quality of vehicles assembled in Pakistan.
Related: No Low-Budget Hyundai Cars for Pakistan?
However most newcomers (Chinese) are focused on introducing light trucks and minivans whereas Hyundai and Kia are working on to offer products well above PKR 3 million which will target only those with deep pockets. In this scenario there is no benefit for the auto consumers in general and no real threat for mass produced Honda, Toyota and Suzuki cars as there is no rival product going to be launched in our market in near future.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
