Toyota Vitz 1.0F Test Drive Report

What I found noteworthy was the good visibility around the A-pillars

The 1L model is the smallest displacement of the new Vitz. It comes with a CVT only. There is no 4WD available. Two grades are available: the basic B grade and the F grade, which I will introduce here. In addition, there is an Intelligent Package that includes an idling stop system, making a total of four models in the lineup.

This engine is newly developed for the Vitz, and it is combined with the advanced Super CVT-i. On the receiving end of the power is a newly developed suspension, upgraded brakes and tires from 13 inches to 14 inches, and more. We are also happy to announce that the fuel efficiency has been further improved. With the 20% weight reduction of the engine and the evolution of the CVT, it's no wonder that it achieves good fuel economy without sacrificing acceleration performance and feeling.

My first impression of the new Vitz was that it had become much more like its big brother. Not only is the size larger, but the overall design is more edgy, with a sharp, sporty atmosphere rather than a cute one. The previous generation Vitz was an entry-level car for Toyota, so it had a familiar feel to it, but the new Vitz seems to be a class above even the compact car category. Even the vivid body color conveys a sense of cuteness without being flirtatious.

The interior is not particularly new, but it seems to be a normal evolution of what was highly requested in the previous generation Vitz. The texture, which was quite plasticy, has been greatly improved. The most useful new features in the new model are the box in front of the steering wheel and the tray under the center cluster. The box in front of the steering wheel and the tray under the center cluster are quite convenient for throwing in luggage.

This is really based on the same engine as the Passo, isn't it? It would be nice if the CVT could be a little more aggressive in the torque band when accelerating to overtake, but for city driving, the 1L model is easy to handle.

It is also very quiet when cruising at 100km/h.

The ride quality is much tighter than the previous generation when cruising at high speeds, but the rear of the car feels more planted when cornering. In addition to the neutral handling of the previous generation, the new car has a more aggressive driving feel. Perhaps that's why the gas pedal stroke is a little long and the brake stroke a little short when winding down.

What I found particularly noteworthy about the Vitz was the good visibility around the A-pillars. From my driving position, the visibility to the left and right is very good because the A-pillars are laid down and pushed forward. When turning left or right, or even when cornering, there is no need to lean back, so I can drive with ease.

On the other hand, one thing I regretted was the rear seat arrangement: the 1L has an integrated backrest that can be folded forward, and it's easy to fold it down with one hand, but the problem is when you want to pull it up. When I hold the knob in my hand and pull the seat up, my fingers get caught in the knob at the 90 degree angle. When you pull it up from the luggage compartment side, you have to stretch to reach the knob, so I would like to see a little more ingenuity in this area. As for the recommended grade, if you want the best rear seat arrangement performance, go for the 1.3L or higher model. If you don't care about that, the 1L F will be enough for you to enjoy.