Toyota launches three new Pixis Joy kei cars in Japan

Toyota has launched the new 660cc Pixis Joy passenger (kei jidosha) mini vehicle at a total of 211 dealers in Japan including 74 Toyota Corolla dealers, 105 Netz dealers, 16 Toyopet dealers, and 15 Toyota dealers in regions where demand for mini vehicles is comparatively high.

In Japan, norms for small or kei cars have it that the overall size of the car should not be more than 3.4 by 1.5 metres and powered by an engine with maximum 660cc and 63bhp. Kei car buyers benefit from substantial tax relief.

There are three models on sale ― the Pixis Joy C (crossover), the Pixis Joy F (fashion) and the Pixis Joy S (sports)― in a variety of colours. All grades are eligible for the Japanese government's subsidies and tax incentives for eco-cars. The Pixis Joy comes with the Smart Assist II collision avoidance assist system for safe driving.

In addition to high fuel efficiency of 30 kilometres per litre and low pricing, which together constitute the original appeal of kei cars, the Pixis Joy also gets distinctive styling, colours, and other design features.

The cars are manufactured at the Daihatsu Motor Kyushu Co plant at Oita, Nakatsu.