Traditionally, when considering larger vehicles such as minivans, a turbodiesel engine would be the obvious choice. However, the new 1.4 TCE engine in the Renault Scénic is surprisingly effective. This article compares the Renault Scénic with the Toyota Verso 2.0 D-4D. Both the Toyota Verso and Renault Scénic are new models, both in their third generation, and have grown in size. The new Scénic is over 4.5 meters long, while the Verso is 4.44 meters long.
Interior and Design
Inside, the Scénic features digital instrumentation but the Toyota has analogue dashboard. The driving positions in both cars are high and offer good visibility, with comfortable and adjustable seats, although greater vertical steering wheel extension would be beneficial. The Verso has a traditional handbrake lever, while the Renault uses an electronic version.
Performance
The Toyota Verso is equipped with engines of 1.6 and 1.8 liters for gasoline and 2.000 and 2.200 diesel. From January 2014, the arrival of the 1.6 D-4D engine with 112 hp and 270 Nm has rekindled interest in this model: this is not a "made in Japan" engine, but the 1,598 cm3 found under the hood of the Mini Cooper D and BMW 116d, naturally adapted to best suit the car thanks to new supports, the dual-mass flywheel and the specific clutch bell in addition to the Start&stop specially developed.
Starting the engines, the 1.4 TCE in the Renault is almost silent, while the D-4D in the Toyota, despite being well-insulated, is a diesel engine and difficult to conceal. The 1.4 TCE engine is responsive, accelerating the Scénic from 0 to 100 km/h in 11.4 seconds, slightly faster than the Verso.
Comfort and Handling
The front suspension of the Scénic absorbs bumps and road imperfections better than the Verso. The Toyota Verso is easy to drive: the gearbox is easy to operate, the clutch is light and the steering is precise and progressive. If you don't expect sports driving, you can travel well, even if the suspensions, especially at the rear, could be a little more comfortable and the rolling of the tires on the highway is felt.
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Fuel Consumption
The Toyota Verso, with its smaller 42-liter diesel tank, can cover approximately the same distance (just under 550 km) as the Scénic 1.4 TCE with its 60-liter gasoline tank. On extra-urban routes, in smooth traffic conditions, the trip computer indicates 5.7 l/100 km, while on less smooth routes it rises to 6.6 l/100 km.
Toyota Verso: A Detailed Look
The Toyota Verso is a mid-size minivan designed for the European market. Launched in 2009, it came equipped with 1.6 and 1.8-liter gasoline engines, as well as 2.0 and 2.2-liter diesel engines. In January 2014, the introduction of the 1.6 D-4D engine, producing 112 horsepower and 270 Nm of torque, revitalized interest in the model. This engine, however, was not "made in Japan" but rather a 1,598 cm3 unit found in the Mini Cooper D and BMW 116d, adapted for optimal integration with the Verso through new supports, a dual-mass flywheel, a specific clutch bell, and a specially developed Start&Stop system.
The Verso prioritizes practicality and ease of driving. The gearbox is smooth, the clutch is light for a diesel, and the steering is reasonably precise and progressive. While not designed for sporty driving, it provides a comfortable ride, although the rear suspension could be improved for better comfort. The Verso also features the Easy Flat system, which allows the seats to be easily folded down.
Space and Versatility
The Toyota Verso is one of the few cars to offer five real seats and, if necessary, two additional seats at the level of the trunk.
The Verso offers ample space for passengers. It can comfortably accommodate five people, and the two additional seats can be used for children. When all seven seats are in use, the luggage space is minimal.
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Features and Technology
The Toyota Touch 2 with Go Plus satellite navigation system offers voice control and traffic information.
Driving Impressions
The Toyota Verso offers a smooth driving experience, thanks to its engine and aerodynamics. This positively influences fuel consumption. The general feeling of lightness may lead some to believe the Verso is not compact, but it is a solid and well-set car that combines good road qualities with a satisfying level of comfort.
Potential Drawbacks
Some noise can be heard at higher speeds, and the tire rolling is not well isolated. The forward position of the pillars can hinder visibility in tight corners.
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