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Toyota Limo
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 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (September 2018) |
The Toyota Limo is an automobile nameplate used by the Japanese automaker Toyota for two different fleet-themed vehicles, primarily for the Southeast Asian markets: a Vios-derived subcompact car (2003–2016, primarily offered in Indonesia and Vietnam), and a Corolla-derived compact car (2003–present, primarily offered in Thailand).
Both cars are essentially scaled-down variants of its respective base models designed specifically for taxi fleet, retaining the same engine options from either the two, but with a specially tuned ECU for more fuel efficient and economical use and softer suspension for comfort, while lacking any extra equipment. The result of which was a robust low maintenance cost, with longer service intervals that may be yearly or every 100,000 kilometres (62,000 miles).
Vios-based Limo
[edit]The Vios-based Limo is primarily offered and commonly used as taxicabs by various taxi firms in Indonesia and Vietnam.
In Indonesia, the Vios-based Limo replaces the XLi trim of the Soluna, the Southeast Asian variant of the Tercel, and is only powered by the 1.5-litre 1NZ-FE petrol engine. Orders were stopped in 2016, when Toyota started offering the Transmover, a fleet variant of the Avanza MPV.[1][2]
- NCP42 (2003)
- NCP93 (2007)
- NCP150 (2013)
-
Toyota Limo taxi (NCP42, Indonesia) -
Toyota Limo taxi (NCP93, Indonesia) -
Toyota Limo taxi (NCP150, Indonesia)
Corolla-based Limo
[edit]The Corolla-based Limo is primarily offered[timeframe?] and commonly used as taxicabs in Thailand.
- E120 (2003)
- E140 (2008)
-
Toyota Limo taxi (E120, Thailand)
See also
[edit]- Toyota Comfort and Toyota JPN Taxi, similarly designed vehicles for the Japanese market.
References
[edit]- ^ "Toyota Vios Facelift Bukan Taksi". Motoris (in Indonesian). 8 May 2018. Archived from the original on 17 June 2019. Retrieved 1 September 2018.
- ^ Saragih, Febri Ardani (11 May 2018). "Toyota Limo "Hilang" dari Pasar Taksi". Kompas (in Indonesian). Retrieved 1 September 2018.
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Toyota Limo
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
The Toyota Limo is a nameplate applied by Toyota to downgraded, fleet-oriented variants of its compact sedans, primarily the Vios in markets like Indonesia and Vietnam, and the Corolla Altis in Thailand, tailored for taxicab and commercial use in Southeast Asia to emphasize durability, fuel efficiency, and low operating costs.[1][2][3]
Introduced in the early 2000s, the Limo lineup draws from successive generations of the Vios platform in Indonesia, where it serves as the base "J" trim with manual transmission, basic cloth upholstery, fewer electronic features, and reinforced components for intensive urban driving, making it a staple for major operators like the Blue Bird Group.[1][3] Production of the Vios-based Limo occurs at Toyota's Karawang facility in Indonesia, supporting local assembly since at least 2013 for both passenger and fleet models.[4] The Vios-based Limo was discontinued in 2022 following the end of Vios production.[5]
In Thailand, the Corolla Altis Limo variant, discontinued in 2019, offered a similar no-frills configuration with a 1.6-liter engine, manual or automatic options, and essential safety features like dual airbags, positioned as an affordable entry-level sedan for taxi fleets before being phased out in favor of newer Corolla models.[2][6] Across these regions, the Limo's design prioritizes reliability in high-demand environments, contributing to Toyota's dominance in Southeast Asian taxi segments, though by 2018, some markets saw a shift away from dedicated Limo badges toward standard Vios units for fleets.[7][8]
Overview
Introduction
The Toyota Limo is an automobile nameplate used by Toyota for two distinct fleet-oriented models in Southeast Asia: a subcompact variant based on the Vios sedan, primarily in Indonesia and Vietnam, and a compact variant based on the Corolla sedan, mainly in Thailand.[9][10] These models serve as dedicated platforms for commercial applications, particularly in urban transportation. Introduced to the region starting in 2003 alongside the Vios launch, the Limo nameplate targets key Southeast Asian markets where demand for reliable taxi services is high, emphasizing operations in densely populated cities like Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bangkok.[11] The vehicles are engineered primarily for taxi and fleet use, prioritizing high durability to withstand intensive daily mileage, superior fuel efficiency to reduce operational expenses, and low maintenance costs through simplified components and extended service intervals.[9] In terms of design, the Limo represents stripped-down iterations of Toyota's standard Vios and Corolla sedans, omitting luxury amenities such as advanced infotainment systems or premium upholstery to focus on commercial optimization.[9] This approach ensures cost-effectiveness for fleet operators like Indonesia's Blue Bird Group, while maintaining essential safety and comfort features suited to passenger transport in challenging urban environments.[9]Development History
The Toyota Limo nameplate emerged in the early 2000s amid Toyota's efforts to address the need for durable, cost-effective vehicles suited to taxi operations in Southeast Asian markets, particularly during the economic recovery following the 1997 Asian financial crisis. The Soluna, a Tercel-derived model that had gained popularity as a taxi vehicle after its 1997 launch in Thailand, was discontinued due to the crisis's impact on demand and production. In response, Toyota introduced the Vios as its successor in Thailand in 2002, with rollout to other ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, in 2003; the Limo branding was applied to downgraded Vios variants specifically for taxi fleets in Indonesia. Paralleling this, the Corolla Altis debuted regionally in 2001, including in Thailand, where a basic-spec Limo version was developed for taxi use to meet similar fleet requirements.[12] Toyota's approach emphasized capturing the taxi market through adaptations prioritizing durability and operational efficiency, such as reinforced components for high-mileage use and simplified features to reduce costs. These vehicles were engineered with a focus on extended maintenance schedules to support intensive fleet service. Key developments included the 2003 introduction of fuel-efficient tuning in initial Limo models to optimize economy for commercial operations, and the addition of compressed natural gas (CNG) capability to the Corolla-based Limo in Thailand by late 2008, aligning with rising interest in alternative fuels amid fluctuating petroleum prices. Production of the Vios-based Limo ran from 2003 to 2016 primarily in Indonesia, while the Corolla-based version continued through the 2010s, evolving through generations to sustain its role in taxi services until its discontinuation after the 2019 model year.[13][2] Regional regulatory frameworks shaped the Limo's evolution, with designs complying with evolving emission and fuel efficiency standards for commercial vehicles in Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam to ensure market access and environmental alignment.[12]Vios-based Limo
Generations and Production
The Vios-based Toyota Limo was introduced in Indonesia in 2003 as a downgraded taxi variant of the first-generation Vios (XP40 platform), spanning production from 2003 to 2007. This generation featured a subcompact sedan body style with reinforced components for fleet use, emphasizing durability for urban taxi operations.[14] The second generation (XP90) launched in 2007 and continued until 2013, with minor updates to improve fuel efficiency and safety, such as standard ABS brakes in later models. It maintained the base "J" trim for taxis, with basic features suited to high-mileage service. The third generation (XP150), introduced in 2013, brought a redesigned exterior and interior, aligning with global Vios updates. Facelifts occurred in 2016 and 2022, incorporating LED lighting and enhanced connectivity while retaining taxi-specific reinforcements. As of November 2025, production continues, with explorations into hybrid variants for eco-friendly fleets.[15] Initially imported from Thailand, production of the Vios-based Limo shifted to local assembly at Toyota's Karawang Plant 2 in Indonesia starting December 2013, with an initial output of 1,000 units per month to meet domestic fleet demand. Annual production volumes for Limo variants have varied, supporting major operators with tens of thousands of units cumulatively since inception.[16][17]Specifications and Features
The Vios-based Toyota Limo is designed for intensive taxi operations, featuring a simplified powertrain and durable adaptations from the standard Vios to prioritize low maintenance and fuel economy in Southeast Asian markets.[18] Across generations, the powertrain centers on a 1.5-liter inline-4 petrol engine. The first and second generations used the 1NZ-FE engine, producing 109 PS at 6,000 rpm and 141 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm. The third generation adopted the 2NR-FE engine, delivering 107 PS at 6,000 rpm and 140 Nm at 4,200 rpm, compliant with Euro 4 emission standards.[19] Transmission options focus on reliability, with a 5-speed manual standard for Limo models; automatic variants are available but less common in fleets. Fuel efficiency is optimized for urban driving, achieving 15–18 km/L under typical taxi conditions, supported by electronic throttle control and lightweight construction.[18] Key dimensions are consistent with the Vios: length of 4,410 mm, width of 1,730 mm, height of 1,475 mm, wheelbase of 2,550 mm, and ground clearance of 133 mm, ensuring maneuverability in city traffic while providing adequate passenger space.[18] Features emphasize longevity, including vinyl or durable cloth upholstery for easy cleaning, manual air conditioning, reinforced suspension for heavy loads, and front disc brakes with rear drums (upgraded to rear discs in later facelifts). Safety includes dual front airbags from the second generation onward, with ABS and EBD standard by 2013. Maintenance intervals are set at 10,000 km to minimize operational downtime.[20]| Specification | First/Second Generation (Petrol) | Third Generation (Petrol) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 1NZ-FE inline-4 | 1.5L 2NR-FE inline-4 |
| Power | 109 PS @ 6,000 rpm | 107 PS @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 141 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | 140 Nm @ 4,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual (primary) | 5-speed manual (primary) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 15–18 km/L | 16–20 km/L |
Market Deployment
The Vios-based Limo is primarily deployed in Indonesia, with secondary use in Vietnam and the Philippines, targeting urban taxi fleets in cities like Jakarta and Ho Chi Minh City. Launched in 2003, it addressed demand for affordable, reliable sedans capable of 200,000+ km in service. By 2010, it had become a staple for operators like the Blue Bird Group, which holds about 30% of Indonesia's taxi market share and relies heavily on Limo units for its 50,000+ vehicle fleet as of 2024. Government incentives for efficient vehicles further boosted adoption.[21] The model integrates well with traditional hailing and ride-hailing apps like Grab, offering low downtime (under 5% annually) via Toyota's extensive service network. Annual fleet additions average 5,000–10,000 units, sustained by contracts with major companies. In the 2020s, stricter emissions have prompted hybrid pilots, though petrol models remain dominant; high resale value aids post-fleet conversions. As of November 2025, the Limo continues to underpin Toyota's strong position in Southeast Asian taxi segments, despite competition from SUVs and EVs.[22][23]Corolla-based Limo
Generations and Production
The Corolla-based Toyota Limo was first introduced in Thailand in 2003 as a taxi variant of the Corolla Altis, utilizing the E120 platform and spanning production from 2003 to 2008. This generation featured a sedan body style designed with an emphasis on spacious rear seating to accommodate passengers comfortably in fleet applications. The second generation (E140) arrived in 2008 and continued until 2013, incorporating a major redesign that enhanced safety features. This period also saw the introduction of CNG compatibility, enabling the model for use as eco-taxis.[6] A third generation based on the E170 platform followed from 2013 to 2019, aligning with Corolla refreshes and maintaining the fleet-oriented specifications. The Limo variant was briefly available in the initial 2019 model year of the E210 platform before discontinuation later that year, with no dedicated Limo badge in subsequent updates or hybrid explorations.[6][2] Production of the Corolla-based Limo took place at the Gateway plant in Chachoengsao by Toyota Motor Thailand.[24] The model was discontinued after the 2019 model year, with fleet operators shifting to standard Corolla Altis variants, including hybrids.Specifications and Features
The Corolla-based Toyota Limo is engineered for high-mileage fleet operations, featuring robust powertrains and practical adaptations from the base Corolla Altis platform to enhance durability and efficiency in taxi service. The powertrain evolved across generations to meet emission standards and operational demands. The first generation utilized the 1.6L 4A-FE inline-4 petrol engine, delivering 110 hp at 6,000 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm.[25] From the second generation onward, the model incorporated the 1.6L 3ZZ-FE engine adapted for CNG operation with bi-fuel capability, producing approximately 105 hp and 140 Nm of torque.[26] Transmission options varied by generation and fuel type, prioritizing reliability for frequent use; early models featured a 5-speed manual as standard with a 4-speed automatic optional for petrol variants, while CNG-equipped models were paired exclusively with the manual transmission. Later generations (post-2013) adopted CVT automatics.[6] Fuel efficiency is tailored for urban taxi cycles, achieving 14–16 km/L on petrol and 12–14 km/kg on CNG, supported by an ECU tuned for prolonged idling and frequent stop-start patterns. Key dimensions for early generations (E120/E140) include a length of 4,405 mm, width of 1,695 mm, height of 1,480 mm, wheelbase of 2,600 mm, and ground clearance of approximately 135 mm, providing a stable ride with adequate space for passengers. Later models (E170) were slightly larger at 4,630 mm length and 1,780 mm width.[27] Interior and exterior features emphasize longevity and low maintenance, including durable vinyl upholstery for easy cleaning, reinforced braking system with front and rear discs introduced from 2008, and basic air conditioning. Maintenance intervals are extended to 10,000 km to reduce downtime. Safety enhancements, such as driver and passenger airbags, were added in updates after 2013.[2] Generational differences focus on environmental and comfort adaptations, with CNG integration starting in 2008 to comply with emission regulations, and a larger cabin configuration optimized for taxi passenger comfort in later models.| Specification | First Generation (Petrol) | Second Generation Onward (CNG Bi-Fuel) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L 4A-FE inline-4 | 1.6L 3ZZ-FE |
| Power | 110 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 105 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | 140 Nm @ 4,400 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual (primary); 4-speed automatic (optional) | 5-speed manual (exclusive; CVT in later gens) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 14–16 km/L | 12–14 km/kg (CNG); similar on petrol |