toyota verso part 2

Toyota has released the latest version of its seven-seater MPV and Wheels24 went along for the ride.

If you struggle to tell this Verso apart from its predecessor, you'd be forgiven. Evolutionary styling has been employed, but this is an all-new model that is wider (by 70 mm) and longer (by 20 mm) with more storage space than before.

If you're still unconvinced, Verso now drops the "Corolla" moniker as it abandons the mainstay's underpinnings (the MPV now rides on a version of the Auris platform) and becomes a standalone model. Not that many people would notice, or be flustered, anyway.

However, Verso also comes with a range of new engines, from 1.6-litre power to a 2.0 D4-D turbodiesel for the flagship model, all in line with the manufacturer's Optimal Drive philosophy to reduce harmful emissions and increase efficiency.

This is the first time a turbodiesel is offered on the Verso range in South Africa. However, only two models - the high-spec 1.6 and 1.8 models are available at launch, with the base 1.6 S and TX diesel joining the line-up from November.



Both petrol engines now make use of Valvematic technology, a development of Toyota's Dual VVT-i variable valve timing that controls both the lift and duration of the inlet valve for more efficient combustion. All models are fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox. A neat new feature for Verso is the gearshift indicator that suggests shift points to gain the most from the more efficient engines.

The new 97-kW 1.6 Valvematic has a peak torque figure of 160 Nm and according to Toyota power and torque are up by 20- and 10%, respectively. Quoted consumption on a combined cycle is 6.8 l/100 km. CO2 emissions are down by 11%.

Up a rung, the 1.8 Valvematic produces 108 kW (up by 12%) and 180 Nm (which increases by 6%). The claimed fuel consumption for this powerplant is 7.0 l/100 km, while CO2 emissions are down by 10%.

The turbodiesel unit, which is available from November, delivers 93 kW at 3 600 r/min and 310 Nm between 1 800 and 2 400 r/min while returning 5.5 l/100 km.


Even though the MacPherson strut at the front axle has been carried over, the suspension has been significantly revised and a torsion beam is used at the rear. Anti-roll bars are used at the front and rear and body roll for a high-waisted MPV is impressive. Verso's straight-line stability at speed is also something worth noting.

VEHICLE SPECS

Manufacturer	Toyota
Model	Verso
Engine	1.6 16-valve DOHC with Valvematic; 1.8 16-valve DOHC with Valvematic; 2.0 D4-D
Power	97 kW @ 6 400 r/min; 108 kW @ 6 400 r/min; 93 kW @ 3 600 r/min
Torque	160 Nm @ 4 400 r/min; 180 Nm @ 4 000 r/min; 310 Nm @ 1 800 - 2 400 r/min
Transmission	six-speed manual
Fuel Tank	60 l
ABS	with brake assist and EBD. VSC and hill start assist on SX and TX models
Airbags	up to seven
Tyres	205/60R16
Front Suspension	McPherson strut
Rear Suspension	Torsion beam
Service Intervals	15 000 km