The Corolla has been Toyota's most popular model for decades. No other model has come close to unseating it. But now, the heat is on.

The Corolla wannabe is the younger made-for-Asia Toyota Vios. The latest Vios is available in Japan as the Belta, which is a sedan version of the Yaris hatchback.

It is appreciably bigger than its predecessor. At first glance, it seems to have taken on the general form of the previous Corolla.

Compared with the current Corolla Altis, the new Vios is still a fair bit shorter tip to tip. But its wheelbase, width and height almost match its bigger brother's measurements.

That means buyers will no longer have to live with cramped rear quarters when they pick a Vios over other budget cars. The car's flat floor in the rear will also enhance legroom.

Then again, the new Vios is no longer in the same bargain basement segment as its predecessor. The cheapest variant is just over $50,000. It used to be below that threshold.

Higher COE rates may be partly responsible. But then, the top-grade G variant is just $1,500 away from the least expensive Corolla.

It makes deciding between the two Thai-made Toyotas a bit tougher.

Not only are their interior space and price tags similar, the new Vios' 1.5-litre engine produces about the same maximum power as the 1.6-litre Corolla Altis.

Coupled with a body that is 80 to 90kg lighter, the Vios is clearly no sloth. It has a hair-trigger throttle and the zest of a Jack Russell on amphetamines.

The Corolla, despite a more relaxed demeanour, is quicker off the mark. That's thanks to more readily available torque, which allows it to accomplish most A-to-B trips with the tacho humming happily below 2,500rpm.

Engine noise is more intrusive in the Vios and its transmission is unsettled in D when the car is at the lights.

The G variant is well-equipped, with turning lights in its electrically foldable wing mirrors, trip computer and steering-mounted controls.

Materials employed are plain but far from austere. The finish is almost on par with the Corolla's, while the layout of its fascia and centre console are more reminiscent of the Yaris'.

Overall build exceeds expectations. What is less than desirable is the somewhat abrupt way the bonnet meets the grille. The wide shutline here is quite obvious.

Still, this car has come a long way since its debut 10 years ago. As far as initial quality and size go, the new Vios is impressive. Which is why the next Corolla had better be nothing short of amazing.

Price: $57,788 with COE
Engine: 1,497cc 16-valve inline-4
Transmission: Four-speed automatic
Power: 109bhp at 6,000rpm
Torque: 141Nm at 4,200rpm
0-100kmh: 12.5 seconds
Top speed: 170kmh
Fuel consumption: 8 litres/100km (city)
Agent: Borneo Motors