The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic (147 Hp) Multidrive S is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by the Japanese automaker Toyota between 2009 and 2013. Designed primarily for the European market, the Verso aimed to provide a practical and versatile family vehicle in a segment increasingly focused on space and adaptability. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and features provides insight into Toyota’s global strategy for meeting diverse consumer needs. The Verso occupied a niche between smaller hatchbacks and larger, more expensive people carriers, offering a balance of affordability, fuel efficiency, and interior space.
Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic: An Overview
The Verso, known as the Toyota Ractis in Japan, was positioned as a direct competitor to vehicles like the Renault Scenic, Citroën C4 Picasso, and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira. The second-generation Verso, introduced in 2009, represented a significant upgrade over its predecessor, featuring improved styling, a more refined interior, and the introduction of Toyota’s Valvematic technology. This engine technology aimed to enhance both performance and fuel economy. The Multidrive S transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), further contributed to the vehicle’s efficiency and smooth driving experience. The Verso’s five-seat configuration and flexible interior made it a popular choice for families seeking a practical and comfortable vehicle for everyday use.
Engine & Performance
The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the 2ZR-FAE. This engine produces 147 horsepower (Hp) and 180 Newton-meters (132.76 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The Valvematic system, a variable valve lift and timing technology, optimizes engine performance across a wider range of engine speeds. This results in improved fuel efficiency and a more responsive driving experience. The engine is paired with Toyota’s Multidrive S transmission, a CVT that offers seamless gear changes and contributes to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.5 seconds. The Verso has a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.0 liters per 100 kilometers (33.6 US mpg) combined, with 8.7 l/100km (27 US mpg) in urban conditions and 5.9 l/100km (39.9 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 164 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic is a five-door MPV with a practical and functional design. Its exterior styling is characterized by a relatively conservative aesthetic, prioritizing practicality over overt sportiness. The interior is designed with family use in mind, offering a spacious cabin and flexible seating arrangements. The rear seats can be folded flat or even removed entirely to create a larger cargo area. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 484 liters (17.09 cu. ft.), expanding to 1740 liters (61.45 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Verso’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. 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. The wheelbase measures 2780 mm (109.45 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Verso |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 Valvematic (147 Hp) Multidrive S |
| 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) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Power | 147 Hp |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 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.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Multidrive S |
The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic, while not a vehicle commonly found on American roads, represents a significant example of Toyota’s commitment to providing practical and efficient transportation solutions for global markets. Its combination of a fuel-efficient engine, versatile interior, and comfortable ride made it a popular choice for families in Europe and other regions.
