2018 Toyota Vitz Review

Detailed Review

The first generation Toyota Vitz called the XP10 series, was produced from 1999 to 2004.  The “Vitz” moniker was consistently used in Japan, but most other nations received the identical vehicle as the Toyota Yaris, or in certain regions the Toyota Echo.

The second generation Toyota Vitz, branded as the XP90, was introduced in 2005 and produced until 2009. While the previous generation Vitz hatchback and Platz sedan appear practically identical, the new XP90 Vitz and Belta are more subtly linked. Although the sheet metal and interior are separate, the two cars share underpinnings, most notably the frame and drivetrain components.

The Vitz RS was released in 2005. It featured a 1.5 L 4-cylinder VVT-i engine. The RS came standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, an RS badged mesh grille, a reworked front and rear bumper, redesigned tail lamps, deep side skirts, and a tail spoiler. It also boasts sport-tuned steering and suspension, as well as rear disc brakes.

The third-generation Toyota Vitz, codenamed XP130, went into production in 2010 and is still in production today. It had a more aggressive attitude, a new front end, and a more capacious interior. In comparison to previous models, the new model has a single windscreen wiper rather than a pair, and the meter cluster is located further back in front of the driver and behind the wheel.

In Japan, the Vitz was given a makeover in 2017. It had a hybrid powertrain option. The 2018 Toyota Vitz has four engine options; 1.0 L 1KR-FE (Petrol), 1.3 L 1NR-FE (Petrol), 1.5 L 1NZ-FTE (Petrol), and 1.5 L (Hybrid), all of which are paired to a E-CVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission), 5-speed manual, and 4-speed automatic transmission. Click here to purchase the 2018 Toyota Vitz Buyer’s Guide. 

2018 Toyota Vitz Grades

1. RS- This entry grade comes with a leather steering wheel, LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, and fog lamps.
2. U- This grade is equipped with a push-button start, climate control, smart key, touchscreen display, and a rear camera.
3. F- This grade boasts power steering, power windows, an anti-lock braking system, and a rear wiper
4. Jewela- This grade is fitted with automatic climate control, regenerative braking, energy monitor, power steering, and power windows.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Toyota Vitz’s interior is simple and functional, with an emphasis on utility and comfort. The first-row seats are comfortable and supportive, with enough headroom. The second row has adequate headroom as well, though taller passengers may be uncomfortable due to the limited knee room.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Toyota Vitz’s first row includes two cupholders, a glovebox compartment, and door pockets. The second row simply has little door pockets that are barely big enough to hold a bottle.

Boot Space

The boot area of the 2018 Toyota Vitz is 9.4 cubic feet, which may be extended by folding the second row of seats.

 Exterior

The front bumper features a large front grille, and the bumper arches can be seen coming from the extreme right and left of the bottom of the bumper and merging right under the bulge that houses the Toyota monogram on the top of the bumper. This car has a sporty aspect because of its large trapezoid headlights.

The rear lights have been entirely overhauled.

2018 Toyota Probox Safety Features

The 2018 Toyota Vitz features antilock brakes traction and stability control, active front head restraints, front-seat side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, front-seat cushion airbags, and a driver knee airbag.

2018 Toyota Vitz Fuel Consumption

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.0 L petrol engine consumption- 22.2 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.3 L petrol engine consumption- 18.6 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L petrol engine consumption- 17.0 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 22.3 km/l on average

2018 Toyota Vitz Acceleration

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 19.5 secs

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.3 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 16.8 secs

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 14.9 secs

2018 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L hybrid engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 15.0 secs

2018 Toyota Vitz Fuel Tank Capacity: 42 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Toyota Vitz has a ground clearance of 5.1 inches which is below the minimum required standard on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

The Toyota Vitz is a very cheap car to maintain. Spare parts are widely available and affordable. Service parts are shared across many other Toyotas such as the Ractis and Platz.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Toyota Vitz provides a pleasant ride. The steering is quick and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight areas.  It has a finely tuned suspension system that cushions occupants in the cabin from unsteady movements and also reduces noise picked up from the road surface. Its cabin is well-insulated to prevent unwanted noise picked up from road surfaces from reaching the occupants.

The braking system is also good because it can bring this car to a complete stop in seconds, which helps to avoid any accidents. It is recommended to slow down while approaching tight turns. Anti-lock braking systems and stability control are some of the technologies incorporated in this car to enhance its stability.

Reliability

The 2018 Toyota Vitz is recognized as a dependable vehicle. However, its ground clearance is below the required standard on Kenyan highways, therefore it cannot go off-road without risking destroying its body parts.

The CVT transmission is one of the most common concerns with the 2018 Toyota Vitz. Some owners have reported that their vehicles jolt or shake while driving, which they believe is due to a faulty shift solenoid. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid such problems.

Click here to purchase the 2018 Toyota Vitz Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Good

Toyota Probox Competitors: Mazda Demio, Nissan March, Suzuki Swift, VW Polo, and Honda Fit.

 What we like about the 2018 Toyota Vitz

Above-average fuel economy

Affordability aspect

Availability of spare parts

What we don’t

Limited cargo space especially in the Hybrid variant

Limited power and acceleration

Conclusion

The 2018 Toyota Vitz is a dependable and practical subcompact hatchback that provides exceptional value. It is fuel-efficient, easy to drive, and offers a variety of features and extras to meet a variety of demands and budgets. While it may not be the most luxurious or powerful vehicle in its class, it delivers on its promise of dependability and practicality, making it a popular choice for small families and city drivers. Click here to download a copy of the 2018 Toyota Vitz Owner’s Manual.