Toyota has added its 2.2-litre D-CAT engine and six-speed automatic to the Verso range. Priced from £20,385, it combines 41.5mpg economy with decent performance.
Power comes from a 2.2-litre diesel engine with 251lb.ft at 2,000rpm and 148bhp at 3,600rpm. To keep NOx and particulate emissions low the engine is fitted with a four-way catalyst and a maintenance-free particulate filter. Drive is taken through a six-speed automatic gearbox, which has software to adapt to driving style and conditions and the option of manual control either with the lever or paddles on the steering wheel.
Toyota claims the Verso 2.2 D-CAT 150 will do 0-62mph in 10.1 seconds. Fuel economy on the combined cycle is 41.5mpg while CO2 emissions are 178g/km.
Two trim grades are offered with the latest diesel engine. The cheaper variant is the TR, which costs £20,385, while the T Spirit is priced at £22,265. Both versions come with 17-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels.
John Lambert - 11 Aug 2009