Toyota Vitz (KSP/SCP/NCP/NLP9#) Test Drive Report

ReportDecember 10, 2021

Newly developed mechanisms were installed in the minor changes. A turbo model was released by Modellista.

The Vitz has undergone a facelift as if to compete with the Fit, which ranked first in total sales among registered cars in Japan last year. Of course, this is not just a design change. There were a number of mechanisms worthy of attention. First of all, the newly developed 1.3L engine (2SZ-FE) was installed. This environmentally friendly engine is combined with a newly developed Super CVT. The lineup also includes a model with an idling stop system that uses hybrid technology to achieve a 10-15 mode fuel economy of 25.5km/L, the highest in Japan excluding minicars and hybrids.

What catches the attention of sports enthusiasts is the customized Modellista version, which is based on the RS and is equipped with 10 customized items, including a turbocharger and special suspension, making it a true boy's racer. On the interior side, the 1.0-liter pair of bench-type front seats are not to be missed.

The extremely thick torque showcases the extreme acceleration. The turbo model requires a lot of driving technique.

The blue Sparco full bucket seats for the driver and front passenger are optional, but they have the very feel of a racing machine. When I excitedly sat down in the seats, I found that the position was not comfortable for my 157cm height. The special seat stays were too high. The steering should have been a bit smaller to give a more racing feel.

While accessing a public road from a parking lot, I stepped on the gas pedal. Suddenly, a huge amount of torque is unleashed, resulting in a strong torque steer. No matter how good your driving technique is, the only way to control this behavior is to back off the gas pedal. Even so, the acceleration produced by the turbo power is truly exciting. The speed of the car increases quickly, and the scenery flies by beautifully. However, when cornering, I felt that my legs were not able to support the massive torque. This is because when side G is applied, the grip sometimes slips away.

It's certainly exciting, but the Vitz RS "TURBO" Powered by TRD is a super jerk. You need to have a lot of confidence in your skills to get the most out of it.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a torque converter is a well-developed machine with smooth shifting.

The newly developed 1.3L (2SZ-FE) engine is paired with a continuously variable CVT with torque converter. The appeal of this CVT is that it adds a sense of excitement to the driving experience. In addition, the shifting was smooth and quiet. The CVT is a well-developed product that eliminates the discomfort and stress of constant engine rotation.

However, the Vitz II was not as easy to handle as a compact car. The Vitz II is an environmentally friendly grade, and its 10-15 mode fuel economy of 23.5km/L is noteworthy, and it is certified as "ultra-low emission. Of course, the engine also has basic performance. However, the emphasis on fuel efficiency has resulted in a lack of nimbleness in acceleration. The electric power steering system is not as responsive as the hydraulic system in the 1.0-liter model, and the steering feel is unsettling. Driving stability is also lacking. This is because the tires, which are fuel efficient, give the car a fluffy roll. It seems that in order to contribute to the environment, the driving feel must be sacrificed somewhat.

The casual design and seating comfort are a double whammy. This is the Vitz's most popular grade.

First seen in the 1.0L is the paired style with bench-type front seats. Sitting in the driver's seat, I found that the cushions were wide, long, and thick enough. Compact cars these days tend to put a lot of effort into their seats, and the Pair Style was no exception in providing us with comfortable seating. The comfortable texture and large, easy-to-use armrests are also items that contribute to the cozy feeling. The dark charcoal/ivory dash panel and coordinated ivory/brown seat fabric also gave a sense of openness and spaciousness that was highly pleasing.

The 1.0L engine, despite s its 51kw/93N-m specs, had a good acceleration feel. The ride is crisp and stable, and the car is satisfying even when you expand the radius of your activities from the city.

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