FCB Joburg & Toyota Set BMX Champ Sifiso Nhlapo the Ultimate Challenge

Toyota SA has launched its new addition to the Etios range, the Etios Cross, with a 360° campaign spearheaded by a television commercial featuring South Africa’s BMX Racing Champion and two-time Olympian, Sifiso Nhlapo.

Pitting Nhlapo and his bike against the Etios Cross, the commercial deftly crushes the critical misconceptions South Africans have about needing an SUV to enjoy an active lifestyle.

FCB Joburg was briefed by Toyota SA to ensure the Etios Cross lives within the realm of ‘here to make you smile’, the overall driving philosophy for the Etios range. In addition, the campaign was to convey carefree optimism to align it with the Toyota brand, and take on a more masculine approach in look and feel so as to function as an image leader for a styling halo across the Etios portfolio.

The creative direction, which positions the Etios Cross with the tagline ‘Smiles Ahead’, highlights how urban adventure is within the grasp of those whose budgets are limited.

“Urban adventure is all about being able to throw your bikes on the roof and go for a cycle in the park with your friends,” said FCB Creative Director, Tian Van den Heever, explaining the rationale for the vehicle’s positioning.

“It’s being able to tie your fishing rod to the roof and head down to the local dam for an afternoon with the guys. It’s having a sportier looking vehicle to make sure you look good while you’re on your way. And, importantly, it’s knowing that you don’t need the top of the range 4x4 to live an active lifestyle.

“In a nutshell, the campaign shows you can now achieve this lifestyle at an unbeatable price; the Etios Cross will make you smile more broadly than ever before.”

The TVC was shot in and around Johannesburg by production house, Bioscope. In addition to the TVC, the campaign includes cinema, digital, print, outdoor and dealer press ads as well as point-of-sale.