Toyota Verso gets a facelift

Toyota has given its practical Verso MPV a mid-life makover, consisting of an external facelift and more than 300 other changes. The styling tweaks bring the previously conservative Verso up-to-date with more modern offerings from the likes of Ford and Kia.

By using Toyota’s revised design language, the compact MPV gains a more aggressive profile, with a squat stance and sharp body creases. A new front bumper, modified headlights and larger Toyota badge complete the changes. Under the skin, the Verso builds on its reputation for versatility and practicality. The interior is much improved with the introduction of soft-touch materials and high-quality plastics, as well as leather trim on top-spec versions.

Fold the third row of seats and it offers the same 440-litre boot as its predecessor, while the flat load floor makes the transportation of bulky items a doddle. Engines include the powerful 2.2-litre D-CAT diesel as well as the 1.6 and 1.8-litre Valvematic petrols found in the current car. An improved 2.0-litre D-4D engine will also feature, boasting a 10g/km reduction in CO2 emissions over the one it replaces.

Due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next week, we expect the 2013 Toyota Verso to have the same standard equipment as the outgoing model. This should mean all cars come with air-conditioning and alloy wheels as standard, with base spec cars starting at around £18,000 when they go on sale later this year.

To view the full Toyota range, visit the CarBuyer Toyota reviews page.