The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic (147 Hp), produced between 2009 and 2013, is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) designed primarily for the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, it represents Toyota’s offering in the crowded European family vehicle segment. The Verso aimed to provide a practical and versatile solution for families needing space and flexibility, competing with models like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso. This generation of the Verso focused on improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions through the implementation of Toyota’s Valvematic technology.
Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic: An Overview
The Verso, known as the Toyota Corolla Verso in some markets prior to 2009, underwent a significant redesign in 2009, resulting in the model detailed here. It’s a five-seater MPV, emphasizing interior space and modularity. The 1.8 Valvematic engine was a key component of the Verso’s appeal, offering a balance between performance and economy. The vehicle’s design prioritized functionality and a comfortable driving experience, making it a popular choice for families seeking a reliable and adaptable vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic is the 2ZR-FAE 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 147 horsepower and 180 Nm (132.76 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. A key feature of this engine is Toyota’s Valvematic system, a continuously variable valve lift technology. This system optimizes engine performance by adjusting the intake valve lift and timing based on driving conditions, improving both fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle and delivers power to the front wheels. The Verso 1.8 Valvematic achieves a 0-60 mph (0-99 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers combined (34.1 US mpg / 40.9 UK mpg), with CO2 emissions of 162 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic features a practical and functional design. Its MPV body style provides ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The vehicle offers five seats as standard, and the rear seats can be folded or removed to create a larger cargo area. The trunk space ranges from a minimum of 484 liters (17.09 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to a maximum of 1740 liters (61.45 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Verso’s interior is designed with family use in mind, featuring durable materials and a user-friendly layout. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Verso’s exterior styling is relatively conservative, prioritizing practicality over bold aesthetics. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4440 mm (174.8 in) in length, 1790 mm (70.47 in) in width, and 1620 mm (63.78 in) in height. It has a wheelbase of 2780 mm (109.45 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Verso |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 Valvematic (147 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2009 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg / 31.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg / 49.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg / 40.9 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Power | 147 Hp |
| Power per litre | 81.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 4000 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2ZR-FAE |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2125 kg (4684.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 484 l (17.09 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1740 l (61.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 55 kg (121.25 lbs.) |
| Length | 4440 mm (174.8 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6-12 m (38.06 – 39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17 |
The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, efficiency, and reliability for European families. Its Valvematic technology contributed to improved fuel economy and a more responsive driving experience, making it a competitive option in its segment.
