The Toyota Will VS is a compact hatchback produced by the Japanese manufacturer Toyota between 2001 and 2004. Primarily marketed in Japan, the Will VS occupied a niche segment, offering a blend of practicality, style, and available all-wheel drive. It was part of a series of vehicles – the Will, Will Vi, and Will VS – designed to appeal to a younger, fashion-conscious demographic. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Will VS provides insight into Toyota’s diverse product strategy during the early 2000s and its approach to catering to specific regional preferences. The VS variant, as detailed here, featured a 1.8-liter engine and the option of a four-wheel drive system, enhancing its appeal in regions with inclement weather or varied road conditions.
Toyota Will VS: An Overview
The Toyota Will VS represented a departure from Toyota’s traditionally conservative styling, embracing a more rounded and contemporary aesthetic. It was positioned as a lifestyle vehicle, emphasizing its versatility and ease of use. The “VS” designation signified a sportier trim level within the Will family, offering enhanced features and a more dynamic driving experience. The vehicle’s compact dimensions made it well-suited for urban environments, while its available all-wheel drive provided added confidence in challenging conditions. The Will VS aimed to provide a comfortable and practical transportation solution for small families or individuals seeking a stylish and reliable hatchback.
Engine & Performance
The Toyota Will VS 1.8 16V 4X4 is powered by the 1ZZ-FE engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces a maximum power output of 125 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 161 Nm (118.75 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilizes multi-port fuel injection for efficient fuel delivery. The 1.8-liter displacement results in a power-to-liter ratio of 69.7 hp/l. The engine’s performance characteristics are geared towards providing smooth and responsive acceleration for everyday driving. The weight-to-power ratio of 9.8 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 7.6 kg/Nm contribute to a reasonably spirited driving experience, especially considering the vehicle’s intended market and purpose. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission, providing enhanced traction and stability. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph).
Design & Features
The Toyota Will VS is a five-door hatchback with a seating capacity of five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by smooth, rounded lines and a relatively compact footprint. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4385 mm (172.64 in) in length, 1720 mm (67.72 in) in width, and 1444 mm (56.85 in) in height – make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The wheelbase measures 2600 mm (102.36 in), contributing to a stable ride. Inside, the Will VS offers a functional and comfortable cabin. While not overtly luxurious, the interior is well-appointed for its class, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. Safety features included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a standard feature for the time, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension system consists of a spring strut setup at the front and a trailing arm configuration at the rear, providing a balance between ride comfort and handling. The vehicle rides on 205/55 R16 tires. The hydraulic power steering system provides assisted steering, making it easier to maneuver at low speeds.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Will VS |
| Generation | Will VS |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 16V 4X4 (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2001 |
| End of production | April, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 161 Nm @ 4200 rpm (118.75 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1ZZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1794 cm3 (109.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.5 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l (3.91 US qt | 3.26 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1220 kg (2689.64 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4385 mm (172.64 in.) |
| Width | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Height | 1444 mm (56.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
In conclusion, the Toyota Will VS 1.8 16V 4X4 was a unique offering within Toyota’s lineup, specifically tailored to the Japanese market. It combined a practical hatchback body style with a responsive engine and the added security of all-wheel drive. While not a vehicle widely recognized in the United States, it represents an interesting example of Toyota’s adaptability and its commitment to providing diverse transportation solutions to meet the needs of different consumers worldwide.
