Verso-S: Small, spacious & smart driving performance — reduced weight and advanced transmissions for class-leading economy and CO2 emissions

The new Verso-S is available with either a 1.33 litre dual VVT-i petrol engine or a 1.4 litre D-4D turbodiesel. Both engines are mated, as standard, to 6-speed manual transmissions. The 1.33 litre petrol engine may be equipped with an optional Multidrive, continuously variable transmission which features a 7-step, sequential paddle shift mode. An optional, 6-speed MultiMode transmission is available for the 1.4 litre turbodiesel.

Both Euro 5-compliant powertrains benefit fully from the low friction components, super-lightweight compact design and enhanced combustion efficiency inherent in Toyota Optimal Drive. Comprehensive weight saving measures make the Verso-S the lightest car in its class. This, combined with highly aerodynamic styling which gives the Verso-S a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.297, awards the new Toyota class-leading fuel economy and CO₂ emissions.4

Weight saving measures

Minimising weight to reduce fuel consumption

With a kerb weight of just 1,070 kg, the Verso-S is the lightest car in its segment. Every aspect of its construction has been designed to further reduce fuel consumption by minimising weight. The extensive use of lighter, high tensile steel accounts for 45% of the car's bodyshell construction.

The wiring loom is fabricated in aluminium, offering a weight reduction of 30% over a traditional copper harness. Both front and rear seats have been made some 11% lighter than those of comparable Toyota cars, and the loadspace deck board is fabricated from lightweight, environmentally-friendly kenaf.

The frameless panoramic sunroof is resin bonded to the bodyshell to further save weight. A Verso-S equipped with the panoramic sunroof weighs only 10 kg more than a conventionally roofed model.

1.33-litre Dual VVT-i petrol engine

Class-leading fuel economy

The 1.33 litre petrol engine is equipped with dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and a remarkably high compression ratio of 11.5:1. It generates 73kW/ 99 DIN hp at 6,000rpm and maximum torque of 125Nm at 4,000 rpm, combining strong dynamic performance with class-leading fuel economy of just 5.5l/100km and CO₂ emissions of only 127g/km.

The engine unit is lightweight and compact, with a small bore and long stroke, resulting in a very high power-to-weight ratio. It features a resin-type cylinder head cover and intake manifold, and the intake channel has been streamlined to optimise airflow for improved combustion efficiency.

The adoption of camshaft roller rocker arms, a highly compact oil pump and a reduction in the number of ribs on the auxiliary belt helps minimise engine friction losses, hence improving fuel economy. And control of the Dual VVT-i and EGR systems has been integrated to further enhance combustion efficiency.

Dual VVT-i helps boost response levels across the entire rev range by varying the air-fuel intake and exhaust valve timing to suit the conditions at any given time. In addition to improving torque at low and medium engine speeds, the system also reduces emissions, and improves fuel efficiency by 2.7% in comparison to VVT-i.

EGR reintroduces precise amounts of cooled exhaust gas into the intake system. This not only reduces engine pumping loses through a reduction in intake vacuum pressure, but also lowers engine operating temperatures by 40˚C to minimise the situations where fuel enrichment is necessary to protect the catalytic converter from overheating damage. Fuel economy is thereby further improved by 2.4%.

Multidrive S Transmission

Segment-first CVT, with sub-manual transmission consumption and emissions

The 1.33 litre petrol engine's optional Multidrive S transmission showcases Toyota's latest Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) technology. Featuring a manual override, sequential, 7-step mode operable by either the gearshift lever or steering wheel-mounted paddles, Multidrive S is the first Continuously Variable Transmission in the segment.

This compact, lightweight CVT system is one of the most fuel efficient automatic transmissions on the market. Returning

5.2l/100km and generating CO₂ emissions of just 120g/km, it is delivering lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions then the conventional manual transmission.

Multidrive S consists of a pair of pulleys with variable width grooves, connected by a metal belt. By continuously varying the groove width — and hence the diameter — of both pulleys, an infinite number of gear ratios may be created.

Multidrive S operates within a wider band of gear ratios than a conventional transmission, allowing for both better acceleration from a standstill and improved fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.

The CVT transmission is connected to the engine by a fluid torque converter with electronically controlled, variable oil pressure.

A lock-up function physically links the two parts of the torque converter, the pump and turbine, effectively changing the converter into a purely mechanical coupling with no slippage and virtually no power loss.

However, torque converter lock-up at low vehicle speeds tends to generate excessive powertrain booming noise due to the loss of the vibration damping inherent in such fluid-based systems.

Multidrive S addresses this issue by incorporating Toyota's first CVT Flex Lock-up Control. Continuously adjusting the degree of lock-up within the torque converter, this control function optimises the transmission's balance of torque delivery and fuel economy. It allows the engine to maximise fuel efficiency, whilst minimising vibration at even low vehicle speeds.

Multidrive S' advanced control systems incorporate several other new features to improve fuel efficiency and enhance the driving experience:

When pulling away from a standstill, a new Flex Start Control lowers the vehicle speed at which torque converter lock-up is possible from 15 to just 10 kilometres per hour. This minimizes torque waste, producing optimum acceleration from lower engine revs for improved fuel economy.

When coasting and under deceleration, Lock-up Slip Control enhances freewheeling efficiency through an expansion of fuel shut off duration. When the vehicle is stationary in D-mode, a neutral control will temporally disengage the transmission from the engine to minimise idling fuel consumption.

The CVT's Speed Ratio Control incorporates a number of systems to not only improve fuel efficiency but also enhance the driving experience. Uphill/downhill shift control uses information from various vehicle sensors to determine whether the Verso-S is travelling up- or downhill. When travelling uphill, speed ratio changes are restricted to achieve smooth operation. If brake pedal use is detected when travelling downhill, the speed ratio is automatically changed to provide appropriate engine braking force.

Engaging the Multidrive S Sport mode brings a closer alignment of engine and vehicle speeds, giving a more linear feel to acceleration in the manner of a conventional manual transmission. The Sport mode enhances acceleration performance and awards the driver a more dynamic driving experience.

Stop & Start System

Optimised for lower fuel consumption

Verso-S models fitted with the 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i petrol engine may be equipped with a Stop & Start system. The system may be used in conjunction with the optional Multidrive S transmission, delivering best-in-class fuel consumption of 5.0l/100km and CO₂ emissions of only 117g/km. This marks the first joint application of Stop & Start and CVT technology.

Featuring an immediate restart with virtually no engine sound or vibration, the system delivers significant reductions in CO₂ emissions during urban driving, and can lower fuel consumption by up to 10%5, depending on driving conditions.

Stop & Start automatically stops the engine when the car is stationary, and the clutch pedal — or brake pedal in the case of Multidrive S — is pressed. The engine will automatically restart, within less than half a second, when the same pedal is released.

The system's rapid restart is made possible through the use of the world's first permanently engaged gear mechanism in which the starter motor and flywheel are linked, via a ring gear, by a one way clutch. This high power, maintenance-free system reduces engine start noise levels within the cabin, and seat vibration levels.

A back-up boost converter is incorporated to protect the audio system, meters and ECUs (Electronic Control Units) from a voltage drop caused by the electrical load of the starter motor. The converter boosts the voltage supplied to accessories in compensation for the power consumed by the starter motor.

Now able to function in temperatures as low as -15°C, Toyota's Stop & Start technology also allows for the continued operation of the air-conditioning system.

With the air-conditioning in use, the engine will not stop if the desired cabin temperature has not been reached. When that temperature has been reached, the air-conditioner will switch to 'ECO-run', allowing the engine to stop.

The Verso-S's improved Stop & Start system has been optimised to allow the engine to remain off for up to half a minute longer than that of its predecessor, even with the air conditioning running.

The engine will automatically restart in the event of low battery charge, or if the vehicle begins to move, in the interests of safety.

1.4-litre D-4D diesel engine

Class-leading economy and emissions, with DPF fitted as standard

The 1.4-litre D-4D common rail, intercooled turbodiesel employs the latest piezo-electric technology and is equipped, as standard, with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). It generates 66kW/90 DIN hp at 3800rpm and maximum torque of 205Nm at 1800-2800rpm.

Benefiting from high injection pressure of 160MPa, the piezo-electric injectors can supply larger, more precise volumes of diesel at twice the speed of conventional fuel injectors. Because of their high operating speed, they can deliver multiple injections per combustion cycle, optimising the combustion process for responsive performance, class-leading fuel economy of 4.3l/100km and CO2 emissions of just 113g/km.

Numerous measures have been adopted to reduce friction losses and improve the diesel unit's fuel efficiency. The oil pump employs two-stage oil pressure control, Teflon coating has been applied to the front crankshaft oil seal, automatic belt tensioning has been reduced and a modified engine coolant path improves engine warm-up time.

MultiMode Transmission

Fully automatic or manual paddle shift sequential change

Available as an option on 1.4 D-4D diesel versions of the Verso-S, MultiMode is an automated manual transmission with a fully automatic shift mode and no clutch pedal. It offers the driver a choice of two, fully automatic gear change modes or a manual, sequential gear change with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles.

When equipped with MultiMode transmission, the 1.4 D-4D Verso-S returns fuel consumption of 4.4l/100km and generates CO₂ emissions of 115g/km.

Selecting E (Economy), M (Manual) or R (Reverse) allows the car to 'creep' in the manner of a conventional automatic. In E mode, the car makes automatic gear shifts that will maximise fuel economy. Selecting ES (Sport) mode will delay changing up to a higher rpm, giving a more sporting style of drive.

Eco driving and gear shift indicators

For eco-friendly, low emission driving

An Eco Driving Indicator is included in the instrument binnacle of Verso-S models equipped with Multidrive S transmission, helping drivers to realise an eco-friendly, low emission-style of motoring. Under Eco driving, the Eco Driving Indicator light will illuminate during accelerator operation in the most fuel efficient zone. When the use of the accelerator exceeds this zone, the Eco light goes out.

On manual models, a Gear Shift Indicator prompts the Verso-S driver to shift up or down a gear for maximum fuel efficiency. Monitoring driving conditions, vehicle speed and throttle inputs, the system can help reduce fuel consumption by 0.5-3.0%, depending on driving styles.

Suspension

Optimised for ride comfort and steering feel

Front Suspension

A highly effective Macpherson strut front suspension system has been adopted for its ability to offer a compact installation, high stability, a compliant, flat ride with minimal road vibration and highly communicative and enjoyable steering feedback.

Coil spring, stabiliser spring and damper rates have all been optimised to achieve a flatter, smoother ride. The shock absorbers have been designed to quickly increase damping force at low piston speeds — such as when driving over small bumps — in order to provide a more positive steering feel. At normal piston speeds, more gentle increases in damping force ensure ride comfort quality is maintained.

Rear Suspension

The Verso-S benefits from a highly effective and super-compact torsion beam rear suspension. The system features separated springs and dampers, a design which minimises intrusion into the cargo area, maximising usable loadspace.

The lightweight, highly rigid fabrication of the torsion beam allows it to function as a stabiliser, minimising body roll when cornering and ensuring excellent agility.

Electric power steering

Fuel efficient and environmentally friendly

The Verso-S's Electric Power Steering (EPS) offers variable assistance for maximum urban manoeuvrability combined with optimum weight and feel during high speed driving.

This advanced system uses electric power only when steering assistance is needed. As a result it is quieter and achieves higher fuel efficiency than conventional hydraulic power steering systems. Moreover, because it does not use hydraulic fluid, EPS does not generate waste oil, and is thus a more environmentally friendly system.

Brakes and tyres

Incorporating Electronic Brakeforce distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), the Verso-S is equipped with the latest ADVICS ADS-A2 and ADS-VP2 braking and stability systems. The new car is fitted with 275mm ventilated disc brakes to the front, and solid 259mm discs or 229mm drums to the rear.

15" steel wheels with full wheel caps are fitted with 185/65R 15 tyres, while 16" alloy wheels are fitted with and 185/60R 16 tyres. Offering shorter stopping distances and reduced rolling resistance, the tyres also contribute to lower fuel consumption, whilst their reduced vertical stiffness further improves ride comfort.

Low noise and vibration measures

Minimising wind and road noise for a quiet interior

The new Verso-S benefits from a variety of measures designed to minimise wind and road noise, resulting in a quiet cabin environment.

A sound insulating acoustic glass windscreen featuring an inner layer of film helps reduce wind, road and engine noise. Sound insulation has been applied to the underside of the bonnet, the underside of the wing liners and the cowl area to reduce the transmission of engine and road noise to the cabin.

A front wing protector has been fitted between the wing and the front pillar to further reduce noise transmission to the cabin. And a lower rocker protector reduces the sound of loose material kicked up from the road surface.

Foam and fixed foam sound insulation materials have been introduced within the A, B and C pillars as well as the door cill and head sections to minimise the transmission of noise through the bodyshell. Sound dampening and sound insulating materials have been extensively used throughout the cabin to lower noise and vibration, including within the front door pillar, front, rear and back door trim, deck side trim, headliner, roof side inner trim and floor carpet.

In addition, the optimised number and placement of roof reinforcements, a mass damper on the front header — for models with panoramic sunroof — and a dynamic damper on the back door — for CVT models — combine to help reduce low-frequency booming noise.

Extensive active and passive safety equipment

Meeting the highest safety standards

The new Verso-S had been designed to offer the highest levels of active, passive and pedestrian impact safety performance.

Impact absorbing body

The new Verso-S has a lightweight yet high rigidity, impact-absorbing body shell of which 45% is fabricated in high tensile steel. The body has been designed to efficiently disperse front, side and rear collision energy, helping to reduce cabin deformation.

In cases of frontal collision, energy from the front side members is channelled through the torque box and distributed to the rocker reinforcements. Energy from the upper member is sent both through a section known as the mix bulk for distribution to the belt line reinforcement, and through the front pillar reinforcement for distribution to the roof rail reinforcement. A quarter window frame reinforcement prevents excessive deformation to the frontal zone of the cabin glazing.

Improving side impact performance, the outer rocker, centre pillar, upper centre pillar hinge and outer roof rail reinforcement has been fabricated in high tensile sheet steel. Side impact beams have been optimally positioned for the efficient transmission of impact energy. The rocker reinforcements have an internal bulkhead to control the rate of deformation. And the roof reinforcement sides employ a fully closed cross-section to significantly enhance durability.

To the rear, a bumper reinforcement and crash box absorb the collision energy of a rear impact.

Additional occupant protection is provided by foam-padded door panels and trims to reduce pelvic injuries in the event of a side collision. And the front door profiles have been optimised and a crushable armrest construction adopted, to help reduce abdominal injuries in the event of a side impact.

Pedestrian Protection Performance

The Verso-S incorporates numerous features to maximise its pedestrian protection performance. Energy absorbing materials on the leading edge of the front bumper reinforcement and the bottom end of the bumper help reduce impact energy directed at a pedestrian's legs. An energy absorbing bonnet structure incorporates a crushable cowl at its rear edge. A low-impact bonnet hinge structure prevents the hinge arm from impacting the body in a collision. And the front wings incorporate an impact absorbing installation bracket structure.

Seven SRS airbags

All Verso-S versions are equipped, as standard, with seven SRS airbags driver and front passenger airbags, a driver's knee airbag, front side airbags and full-length side curtain shield airbags.

3-point ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) seatbelts

All front and rear seats feature three-point, ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) seatbelts. The ELR is designed to lock up the seatbelt when excessive load is applied over a preset value. Driver and front passenger seatbelts further benefit from a pre-tensioner and force limiter function. During a collision, the force limiter fractionally reduces seatbelt tension to lower occupant chest impact forces.

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The Verso-S is fitted with Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats to reduce whiplash injuries during rear end collisions. Should a rear impact of sufficient velocity occur, the seat structure allows the occupant's upper body to sink backwards, matching the movement of the lower body to that of the head to reduce the risk of a whiplash injury.

ABS, EBD, BA, TRC and VSC+ Active Safety Systems

The new Verso-S is fitted, as standard, with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+).

EBD works with ABS to ensure that the most effective brake force is applied to each wheel, according to road conditions. By preventing the wheels from locking, EBD helps to maintain sure-footed stability during cornering and braking.

BA identifies the need for, and applies, additional braking force if the driver fails to apply sufficient force during emergency braking, or releases brake pressure too soon.

TRC monitors and controls the amount of power that is applied to the road through the car's wheels. If the system detects that one or more wheels is about to lose traction it instantly determines the best way to restore traction to that wheel, either by decreasing the power being sent to the wheel that is about to spin or, in more extreme cases, momentarily braking the wheel until it regains traction.

VSC+ is designed to prevent loss of car control when entering a corner too fast or in slippery conditions which might lead to a skid. Via sensors monitoring car body rotation, wheel speed and brake pressure, the system assesses vehicle stability and the proximity of either an understeer or oversteer slide.

The system restores stability by automatically adjusting engine output and applying smoothly modulated braking to the appropriate wheel individually, and by providing assist torque through the Electric Power Steering (EPS) to help the driver make the correct inputs to restore vehicle stability.