Toyota updates the Verso MPV

Toyota will show the all new Verso at Geneva '09

The Verso is an all new version of the MPV, offering Toyota’s Easy Flat-7 seating configuration, which basically allows owners to lower all the back five seats individually to accommodate whatever configuration they need for load/passenger requirements.

The Verso is stretched over the old Verso, with a longer wheelbase and wider track, offering a more spacious interior. There’s a pretty much all-round increase in power of 20%, but Toyota has managed to pull off a 12% reduction in emissions and fuel use.

Engines on offer include a 1.6 litre and 1.8 litre Valvematic petrol and a 2.0 litre and 2.2 litre turbo diesel. The launch cars will all come with a six-speed manual, but Toyota’s Multidrive S auto will become an option later. Toyota reckon the Verso offers car-like handling and dynamics, and expect it to achieve a 5 star NCAP rating.

The old Verso was a pretty decent car, but a bit on the slow side. Hopefully the power increase will address this and make it more relaxing to drive. Ride quality was also a bit of an issue, which is probably why Toyota are trumpetiung the improved dynamics in its press release. But Toyotas hold their value well, and the new Verso looks to have improved in all the areas in which it was weak before. Good all-rounder.

By Cars UK