The 2014 version of the Toyota Verso compact MPV is up and ready to go, not only with extra style and high-tech equipment, but also as the first Toyota model to use a new 1.6-litre D-4D diesel engine from BMW.
So what does all this mean then?
Replacing the 2.0-litre D-4D engine, the 1.6-litre D-4D diesel engine gives the Toyota Verso more efficiency with a lot less weight (20kg actually!) Power is now up to a maximum of 110bhp (82kW) at 4,00rpm and peak torque up to 270Nm, generated from 1,750 to 2,250rpm. When it comes to 0-62mph acceleration we are talking 12.7 seconds, top speed 115mph, fuel economy 62.8mpg (an improvement of 8% on the old 2.0 D-4D unit) and CO2emissions lower by 10g/km at 119g/km; all supported by the first ever use of a stop and start system in a Verso as part of the Toyota Optimal Drive principles.
New Verso Trend
On top of the new engine, Toyota have also added a new Trend grade to the Verso line-up for 2014 which, according to Toyota themselves, introduces “an extra dash of style and some high-tech equipment features to the specification.”
Slipping nicely between the Icon and Excel models in the Verso brand, it’s easy to spot a Trend by the black C-pillar decal that helps to create a floating roof effect, just like the latest Yaris Trend, and it also has its very own five-spoke alloy wheel design, front fog lamps and rear privacy glass.
The new Toyota Verso is available in the usual Verso colours but has also an addition with a new Avantgarde Bronze paint finish, new cloth upholstery in black and (optional) grey, and a new leather trimmed gear knob.
All this means that the full Verso grade line-up for 2014 has some changes in it, ranging from the Verso Active to the Verso Icon and Trend, right up to the top-of-the-range Verso Excel with its 1.8 Valvematic and D-4D engine options.