Almost 22 years after it made its debut, the Toyota Qualis based on the Kijang that was the Japanese company's global product at one time is one brand that its patrons still fondly remember. The vehicle which marked the entry of Toyota into India as a JV with the Kirloskar Group in India in 2000 was based on the third-generation global model, but with updated front and rear styling and also shared some fourth-generation drivetrain components.
When it was launched, it was pitched against the already successful Tata Sumo and Mahindra Bolero, both well-entrenched in the segment. But Toyota's formidable reputation and the vehicle's tremendous attributes slowly helped it become the favourite of large Indian families and fleet operators. In the process, the quirky-looking Qualis redefined India's multi-purpose vehicle market.
The vehicle derived its name from Quality and Service and made its debut with a price tag of Rs 4.58 lakh, and in three variants: family saloon (FS), grand saloon (GS) and grand saloon-touring (GST).
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