The Toyota Verso, specifically the facelifted model introduced in 2013, is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) designed to cater to families seeking versatility and practicality. While not officially sold in the United States, the Verso held a significant position in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso. The 2013 facelift brought styling updates and refinements to Toyota’s already popular people-mover, focusing on enhancing its appeal and efficiency. This version, powered by a 1.8-liter Valvematic engine paired with a Multidrive S continuously variable transmission (CVT), offered a seven-seat configuration, making it a popular choice for larger families.
Toyota Verso (Facelift 2013): An Overview
The Verso, known as the Corolla Verso in some markets prior to 2009, represents Toyota’s commitment to providing functional and reliable transportation solutions. The facelifted 2013 model built upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering improved fuel economy, enhanced safety features, and a more modern aesthetic. The vehicle’s primary focus was on maximizing interior space and flexibility, making it ideal for transporting passengers and cargo. The Multidrive S transmission, Toyota’s branded CVT, contributed to a smooth driving experience and optimized fuel efficiency. The 1.8 Valvematic engine was a key component, offering a balance of performance and economy.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2013 Toyota Verso 1.8 Valvematic is the 2ZR-FAE 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 147 horsepower and 180 Nm (132.76 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The Valvematic system, Toyota’s variable valve timing and lift technology, optimizes engine performance across a wide range of engine speeds. This technology allows for precise control of intake valve timing and lift, improving both fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Power is delivered to the front wheels via Toyota’s Multidrive S CVT, which simulates stepped gear changes for a more conventional driving feel. 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 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) combined, with 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) in urban conditions and 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.
Design & Features
The 2013 Toyota Verso is a five-door MPV offering seating for up to seven passengers. Its design prioritizes practicality and space utilization. The exterior styling was refreshed with the facelift, featuring a more prominent front grille, redesigned headlights, and updated bumpers. The interior is characterized by its flexible seating arrangement, with the second-row seats sliding and folding to provide easy access to the third row. The third-row seats can be folded flat into the floor, maximizing cargo space when not in use. The Verso offers a trunk capacity of 178 liters (6.29 cu. ft.) with all seats in place, expanding to 1696 liters (59.89 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a family vehicle, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), multiple airbags, and stability control. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4460 mm (175.59 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 (facelift 2013) |
| Type | 1.8 Valvematic (147 Hp) Multidrive S 7 Seat |
| Start of production | January, 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| 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 5 |
| 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 capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 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) |
| Length | 4460 mm (175.59 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Multidrive S |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
The Toyota Verso (facelift 2013) 1.8 Valvematic Multidrive S 7 Seat represented a practical and efficient option for families in the European market. Its combination of spaciousness, fuel efficiency, and reliability made it a competitive choice in the compact MPV segment. While not available in the US, it exemplifies Toyota’s global strategy of providing versatile vehicles tailored to specific regional needs.
