The Toyota Verso 1.6 Valvematic (132 Hp) 7 Seat 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 with a focus on space efficiency and fuel economy. It served as Toyota’s competitor to vehicles like the Renault Scenic, Citroën C4 Picasso, and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Verso provides insight into Toyota’s global strategy for the compact MPV segment and its advancements in engine technology during this period.
Toyota Verso: An Overview
The Verso, meaning “versatile” in Italian, embodies its intended purpose. The second generation, represented by this 1.6 Valvematic model, built upon the success of its predecessor with improved styling, interior flexibility, and a more refined driving experience. The 7-seat configuration was a key selling point, offering families the option for additional passengers without sacrificing cargo space entirely. The 1.6-liter Valvematic engine was a significant development, aiming to balance performance with reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Toyota Verso 1.6 Valvematic is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the 1ZR-FAE. This engine produces 132 horsepower (Hp) and 160 Newton-meters (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4400 rpm. The Valvematic system is a continuously variable valve lift and timing mechanism, allowing the engine to optimize performance and efficiency across a wider range of operating conditions. This technology improves both fuel economy and throttle response compared to traditional valve control systems. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.7 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 11.1 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers (35.1 US mpg) combined, with urban and extra-urban figures of 8.6 l/100km (27.4 US mpg) and 5.6 l/100km (42 US mpg) respectively. CO2 emissions are rated at 158 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Toyota Verso 1.6 Valvematic is a five-door MPV designed with practicality in mind. Its exterior styling is characterized by a relatively conservative, yet modern, aesthetic. The interior is the Verso’s strong suit, offering a flexible seating arrangement. The second-row seats slide and recline, and the third-row seats can be folded flat into the floor, creating a large, flat cargo area when not in use. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 178 liters (6.29 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to a maximum of 1696 liters (59.89 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Standard safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and multiple airbags. Other features included power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system. The Verso prioritized functionality and space over luxurious appointments, targeting families seeking a reliable and versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Verso |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Valvematic (132 Hp) 7 Seat |
| Start of production | April, 2009 |
| End of production | January, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Power | 132 Hp |
| Power per litre | 82.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4400 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1ZR-FAE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 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 capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2125 kg (4684.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 178 l (6.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1696 l (59.89 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 track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6-12 m (38.06 – 39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 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 1.6 Valvematic, while not a vehicle commonly found in the US market, represents a significant offering in the European compact MPV segment. Its focus on practicality, fuel efficiency, and flexible space makes it a compelling choice for families seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle.
