The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic (147 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.
Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic: An Overview
The Verso, meaning “versatile” in Latin, embodies its intended purpose. The second generation, represented by this 1.8 Valvematic model, featured a more dynamic design compared to its predecessor, along with improvements in interior space and functionality. The 7-seat configuration was a key selling point, offering flexibility for families needing occasional extra passenger capacity. The Valvematic technology, a variable valve timing system, was central to improving both performance and fuel efficiency.
Engine & Performance
The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic is powered by 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. The Valvematic system allows for precise control of valve lift and timing, optimizing engine performance across the rev range. This results in a responsive driving experience, particularly noticeable during everyday acceleration. The engine is naturally aspirated, meaning it doesn’t rely on turbocharging or supercharging. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.4 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). The powertrain is coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. 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 boasts a practical and family-oriented design. Its MPV body style prioritizes interior space and versatility. The five-door configuration provides easy access to all seating rows. The key feature is its seven-seat layout, offering three rows of seating. The second-row seats typically slide and recline, enhancing passenger comfort and allowing for flexible cargo space management. When all seats are in use, trunk space is limited to 178 liters (6.29 cu. ft.), but with the third-row seats folded down, it expands to a substantial 1696 liters (59.89 cu. ft.).
Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The interior design focused on functionality and durability, with a user-friendly dashboard layout and ample storage compartments. While not laden with luxury features, the Verso offered a comfortable and practical environment for families. 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, with a wheelbase of 2780 mm (109.45 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Verso |
| Type | 1.8 Valvematic (147 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) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US 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 |
| 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 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
The Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic (147 Hp) 7 Seat, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and versatility for European families. Its focus on maximizing interior space and providing a comfortable driving experience made it a popular choice in the competitive compact MPV segment.
