Toyota Verso review

The latest Verso is a bit of a surprise to drive, in that it’s quite a bit better than the old one and, thus, better than the average all-rounder you expect of Toyota. Handling and body control were actually not bad in the outgoing car, but this did result in rather a choppy ride. Toyota’s smoothed that off rather well in this one, while also making hundreds of detail changes to hone the way it rolls along. We didn’t expect it, but it’s actually rather appealing. Well, for a Toyota people carrier, at least.

The introduction of a 1.6-litre diesel engine supplied by BMW helps no end here. Previously, diesel was the weakest part of the Verso; now, it’s one of the best, thanks to the strong 114bhp motor. The grating screech of the petrol alternatives is now less objectionable as well (pity the 1.8’s Multidrive CVT is no less annoying – avoid for this reason alone). The fact it’s very aerodynamic also helps cut noise.