Toyota Vitz 1.3U Test Drive Report

ReportFebruary 15,2022

The 1.3L model is the recommended model for Vitz

Since the first generation model was a huge hit, the development of the second generation model must have been particularly difficult. However, the second generation Vitz has been carefully finished as a world-class compact car. While basically inheriting and developing the good qualities of the first generation model, the second generation model has also added new attractions.

The major change was in the packaging. The overall length of the body and the wheelbase have been increased by about 100mm, creating more legroom in the rear seats and more luggage space.

In the long run, the sales ratio of the low-priced 1L model may increase, but for the time being, the 1.3L model is expected to be the main seller. For the time being, however, the 1.3-liter model is expected to be the main selling model. The 1.3-liter model, with its good balance of performance, equipment and price, will be the recommended model for Vitz in the long run.

The exterior design of the 1.3-liter model has few features unique to the 1.3-liter model; the 1.3F model comes with UV-cut privacy glass and electrically foldable colored door mirrors, while the 1.0F model has the same features. Another difference is that the 1.3U has 15-inch 185/60 tires, one size larger than the 1.0F.

The interior design of the new Vitz is characterized by the long, vertical shape of the instrument panel, which is common to all grades, and the 1.3U features a tachometer (not available on the 1.3F) and automatic air conditioning with humidity control as standard. The 1.3U comes with luxurious equipment such as high-grade seat upholstery. The 1.3U is better equipped than the X, which is only available with the 1.5L engine.

The 1.3L model has split-folding rear seats that can be tilted down and retracted, which is unique to the 1.3L model, and while there are some differences between the FWD and 4WD models, the 1.3L model also has the best rear seats.

As far as driving is concerned, the 1.3L model seems to be just right. The 1.3-liter engine, which is the base engine, delivers enough power for the time being, but this is mainly for town use. Compared to the 1L engine, the 1.3L engine offers a more comfortable driving experience from city to highway cruising. The 1.3-liter engine is slightly noisier than the 1-liter engine, but the combination of the Super CVT and the 1.3-liter engine provides a smooth ride and a driving feel worthy of the Vitz.

The simple torsion beam rear suspension also provides a light footwork feel in its own right. There is no complaint about the ride quality, and although the car rolls, it feels stable in corners. We were not able to test the car on a winding road during our test drive, but we could feel the stable chassis performance. The electric power steering is also very comfortable.

The Vitz 1.3U, with its smaller displacement, is the highest grade available, surpassing the 1.5X. Although the 1.5X is more expensive due to the difference in engines, the 1.3U is better equipped with a smart entry and start system, intermittent wipers linked to a timed washer, and SRS airbags and SRS curtain shield airbags. With a price of 1,386,000 yen, about 20,000 yen less than the 1.5X, the 1.3U is a better buy.

The 1.3F with the same 1.3L engine is priced at 1,218,000 yen, which is quite a big price difference from the 1.3U. The 1.3U has better equipment but is too expensive for a 1.3L car. 1.3F is based on the 1.3F and comes with smart entry, SRS side airbags and SRS curtain shield airbags, CD voice navigation system, and other 20 features. The best way to buy a 1.3U is to use the 1.3F as a base model and install options worth 200,000 yen such as smart entry, SRS side airbags and SRS curtain shield airbags, and CD voice navigation system.

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