The 2023 Toyota Wigo has made its global debut, with its multiple versions showcased in Malaysia and Indonesia. The new version of the Toyota hatchback brings a larger exterior, a new platform, and a host of new features. 

Aside from this, the Indonesia version also brings a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, the same motor found in the Toyota Raize. The arrival of the bigger engine now begs the question, should the 2023 Toyota Wigo get the bigger 1.2-liter engine for the Philippine market?

Also read: Goodbye manual Wigo? All-new 2023 Perodua Axia only available with CVT

What the 1.2-liter engine brings

The 1.2-liter 3-cylinder Dual VVT-i WA-VE naturally aspirated motor produces 88 PS and 113 Nm of torque. It is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) only for the Toyota Agya but is available with a five-speed manual transmission in the Toyota Raize.

While the new engine brings more power to the hatchback, we must remember that its body is bigger than before. The bigger body means more weight to carry around, making the 1.2-liter motor a better match than the 1.0-liter engine that's locally available in the current version of the Wigo.

The arrival of the new 1.2-liter could slim down the parts the Japanese automaker needs to operate locally as it's one less motor to consider. 

Does this mean the new Wigo is CVT only?

As previously mentioned, the Toyota Agya, the Toyota Wigo's twin in Indonesia, is only available with a CVT. While it is highly likely that the Philippine version of the Toyota hatchback could get a CVT instead of a traditional four-speed automatic.

The five-speed manual transmission will likely remain for the lower variants of the new Toyota Wigo once it arrives in the country. There is still a market for affordable manual transmission vehicles in the country; we don’t think Toyota will want to lose that segment.

Should we get the 1.2-liter gasoline engine?

The arrival of the new Toyota Wigo with the 1.2-liter gasoline engine will depend on the specifications of Toyota Motor Philippines. 

If the Japanese brand decides to bring it with more power, we could have another best seller in our market. 

However, if they choose to retain the 1.0-liter motor, the hatchback may encounter issues with fuel efficiency as the new chassis may be significantly heavier than the previous model.

For now, it's a waiting game to see what Toyota Motor Philippines has in store for the new hatchback.