Toyota Verso (Japan, 2001-present)

In 2012, Toyota upgraded the Verso MPV with over 470 changed parts, lower emissions and lower interior noise levels. The car still seats seven passengers. There is now 975mm between the first and second row of seats. There is 155l of cargo volume behind the third row of seats and 440l with the third row folded down.

The new Verso gets a dramatic front upgrade with Toyota’s Under Priority design language. It has a low, curving nose that is similar to the Prius. The B-pillar is invisible and matches the windows, and the C-pillar is thick like on the Prius. All models will get LED running lights, and top trim models will HID lights. One of the major new options will be the 2.4m long, 1.2m wide panoramic sunroof.

The Verso is also getting interior upgrades with new soft touch trim, lacquer black paint and Nappa leather door trim on some models.  All models also get chrome trim on the instrument surrounds, air vents, gearshift and door grips. All cars also get larger seat bolsters for a more supportive seat. The interior upgrades also lower noise and vibration in the car.

The new Verso will be offered with four engines. None of them are technically new, but all of them have improved CO2 emissions compared to previous versions. The base engine is a 2.0-liter diesel with 126hp and a six-speed manual transmission. It produces 130g/km of CO2. There is a 2.2-liter diesel with 177hp and either a six-speed manual or automatic. There are also two petrol engines: a 1.6-liter with 132hp and a 1.8-liter with 147hp. Both petrol engines come with a manual transmission, but the 1.8-liter gets a CVT as an option.

Toyota expects to sell 50,000 units a year of the Verso in 2013. It will be offered in three trim levels : Live, Active and Lounge.