Toyota’s popular Verso MPV, currently in its third generation, has just received a much-needed facelift. The new look is representative of Toyota’s current familial styling, as featured on the recently launched Auris and RAV4. Besides the visual upgrades, there have also been a number of interior enhancements.
The hallmarks of the refreshed front end include redesigned bumpers, narrower headlamps (which feature daytime running light and HID technology on the range-topping model), and horizontal bars in the upper grille and lower air dam to accentuate the Verso’s width. When viewed in profile, there’s a notable character line that rises from the bottom of the front wheel arch and highlights the rear roof spoiler.
Inside the Verso’s cabin Toyota has paid special attention to the perceived quality by incorporating numerous soft-touch finishes on the facia, door trim, arm rest and steering wheel, while the chrome trim on the instrument panel, ventilation binnacles and gear-shift surround add some contrast to the range of cloth and leather upholstery options.
Toyota’s Easy Flat 7 system allows up to 32 different seating/load-carrying configurations. There’s 155 dm3of luggage room available with the third row of seats upright, and 440 dm3 when the last row is folded. With the second and third row folded completely flat, the utility room measures 1 575 mm long and 1 430 mm wide.
Besides the roomy cabin, there are plenty of storage compartments for stowing away smaller items, including a twin-compartment glovebox with a capacity of almost 10 litres and deep door pockets. High-spec models also feature fold-out tables behind the front seats, a drawer beneath the front passenger seat, second row underfloor storage and smaller front pockets for mobile phone and MP3 player stowage.
Toyota’ has also taken plenty of measures to minimise NVH, including plenty of wind tunnel work to maximise aerodynamic efficiency and reduce wind noise, as well as providing the Verso with engine, fuel tank and rear floor covers to create as much of a flat surface underneath the body as possible. Other NVH-reducing measures include a redesigned facia with improved sound damping between the engine bay and cabin.
The engine line-up comprises of two petrol motors (a 1,6 litre and 1,8-litre) and a 2,0-litre diesel powerplant. The petrol motors produce 97 kW and 108 kW respectively, while the 2,0 D-4D engine develops 91 kW and 310 N.m of torque.
The facelifted Verso also ushers in improved specification. The entry level S now benefits from front foglamps as well as integrated turn signals and heated side mirrors, while the SX adds electrically folding side mirrors, a height adjustable front passenger seat, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and touch-screen infotainment monitor. The range-topping TX gets chrome exterior trim, leather seat bolsters, keyless entry and start, dual-zone climate control, auto lights and wipers and rear passenger sunshades. A vehicle stability control system is standard across the range, and the Verso boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.
Prices (including VAT)
Verso 1,6 S 6-spd manual – R261 900
Verso 1,6 SX 6-spd manual – R284 300
Verso 1,8 TX 6-spd manual – R314 200
Verso 1,8 TX CVT – R326 100
Verso 2,0D TX 6-spd manual – R329 900
The Toyota Verso comes with a three year/100 000km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan as standard. The new models are also supported by the 24-hour ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance Programme.