Overview

Toyota has returned to the B-MPV market with their new Verso-S, a model that majors on providing exceptional space and great flexibility, within its compact overall dimensions. In terms of size, it may well be the smallest competitor in the mini-MPV segment, but Toyota’s clever vehicle design has produced an interior that verges on compact family hatchback levels of passenger and load space.

This new MPV is small, spacious and smart and looks set to be a winner in this sector.

Interior space

The five-door Verso-S is shorter overall than any of its major market rivals, but within a generous 2,550mm wheelbase, Toyota has crafted exceptional interior space for both passengers and luggage. They have really worked at creating the best possible packaging, including using a slimmer front seat design and tailoring the profile of the rear door trims to add extra “foot space” for easy passenger access.

In addition, the 60:40 rear seats can also be folded flat in a one-touch action, which is made easier thanks to the extra control levers being provided in the boot, and a two-position lightweight deckboard allows for the loadspace depth to be easily adjusted as well. On T Spirit models, a maximum 1,388 litres is available with the rear seats folded down.

Powertrain, emissions and economy

All the versions of the new Toyota Verso-S are powered by Toyota’s 98bhp 1.33-litre VVT-i petrol engine, delivering the lowest CO2 emissions and also the best fuel economy in the mini-MPV segment

When matched to their six-speed manual transmission, this system delivers 127g/km and a combined cycle fuel economy of 51.4mpg. With the high efficiency Multidrive S CVT, the only transmission of its kind in this segment, CO2 figures are lower still at 120g/km, with an improvement in average fuel consumption to 54.3mpg (on the combined cycle)

Toyota Touch – multimedia touchscreen system

Verso-S introduces Toyota Touch, which is a new multimedia touchscreen system for controlling all audio and communications functions. It is fitted as standard to all versions of the new car and also comes with Bluetooth, for hands-free mobile phone use and audio streaming, plus a USB port for connecting your personal music player. Toyota Touch also features a trip information screen, which displays details of your journey time, your distance and your fuel economy, including journey-by-journey comparison records.

From May 2011, you will be able to upgrade Toyota Touch with a new Touch and Go navigation package which provides all key navigation functions, plus the flexibility to add more advanced features and applications, accessed via Google.

Trim level

Verso-S is available in two trim levels – TR and T Spirit.

Key features of the TR include Toyota Touch, Bluetooth, a reversing camera, front fog lamps, air conditioning, seven airbags (including driver’s knee airbag) and the one-touch folding rear seats.

T Spirit models additionally feature 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear electric windows, a panoramic glass roof (which is the largest in the segment) and dark-tinted rear privacy glass.

Three cost option packs are available: Style Pack, with additional exterior chrome trim details. Leather Pack, with premium two-tone grey leather upholstery. Protection Pack, which provides rear parking sensors, a boot liner and scuff plates.

Summary

This clever, well specified mini-MPV offers you great value for money and we should have Toyota contract hire leasing prices loaded shortly.