2019 Toyota Vitz Review

Detailed Review

Toyota Vitz’s first generation, known as the XP10 series, was manufactured from 1999 to 2004.  The “Vitz” moniker was used regularly in Japan, although most other countries received the same vehicle as the Toyota Yaris, or in some areas the Toyota Echo.

The XP90, the second generation Toyota Vitz, was released in 2005 and produced until 2009. Unlike the previous generation Vitz hatchback and Platz sedan, the new XP90 Vitz and Belta are more subtly related. Although the sheet metal and interior are distinct, the underpinnings of the two vehicles are shared, most notably the frame and drivetrain components.

The Vitz RS was introduced in 2005. It was powered by a 1.5 L 4-cylinder VVT-i engine. The RS had 16-inch alloy wheels, an RS badged mesh grille, a modified front and back bumper, redesigned tail lamps, deep side skirts, and a tail spoiler as standard. It also has sport-tuned suspension and steering, as well as rear disc brakes.

Toyota Vitz’s third generation designated XP130, went into production in 2010 and is still in production today. It had a more aggressive stance, a redesigned front end, and a larger interior. The new model features a single windscreen wiper rather than a pair, and the meter cluster is situated further back in front of the driver and behind the wheel.

In 2017, the Vitz received a redesign in Japan. It was available with a hybrid drivetrain. The 2019 Toyota Vitz is available with 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), each linked to an E-CVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission), 5-speed manual, and 4-speed automatic transmission. Click here to download the 2019 Toyota Vitz Buyer’s Guide. 

2019 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, 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 cabin of the 2019 Toyota Vitz is quite utilitarian and not overly ornamented because it focuses on practicality.

The first-row seats are supportive and comfy, with plenty of headroom. The second row has ample headroom as well, though taller passengers may find the limited knee room unpleasant.

Cabin Storage

The first row of the 2019 Toyota Vitz offers two cupholders, a glovebox compartment, and door pockets. The second row only has small door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2019 Toyota Vitz has a cargo space of 9.4 cubic feet which may be increased by folding the second row of seats.

Exterior

The 2019 Toyota Vitz has a big grille with the Toyota emblem directly above it. The headlamps, which are slightly above the grille on the extreme ends, provide a stylish touch. The fog lights on the lower fascia have been strategically placed to not only offer a sporty design but also improve aerodynamics.

Tail lights and turn signals sit in the rear.

2019 Toyota Probox Safety Features

The 2019 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.

2019 Toyota Vitz Fuel Consumption

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.0 L petrol engine consumption- 20.3 km/l on average

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.3 L petrol engine consumption- 18.1 km/l on average

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L petrol engine consumption- 16.6 km/l on average

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 20.9 km/l on average

2019 Toyota Vitz Acceleration

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 18.2 secs

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.3 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 16.0 secs

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 14.4 secs

2019 Toyota Vitz 1.5 L hybrid engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 14.7 secs

2019 Toyota Vitz Fuel Tank Capacity: 42 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2019 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 2019 Toyota Vitz has a smooth ride. The steering is swift and precise, making it simple to maneuver in confined spaces.  It boasts a carefully tuned suspension system that cushions cabin occupants from unstable motions while also reducing road noise.

The braking system is very effective because it can bring this vehicle to a complete stop in seconds, which aids in avoiding accidents. When approaching tight curves, it is advisable to slow down. Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and traction control are additional features that aid this car’s performance.

Reliability

The 2019 Toyota Vitz is known for its dependability. However, because its ground clearance is lower than the required level on Kenyan roads, it cannot go off-road without risking damaging its body parts. The 2019 Toyota Vitz has a history of electrical problems. Some owners have experienced issues with the touchscreen display or the backup camera on their vehicles.

Regular repair and maintenance are essential to realize the full potential of this vehicle. Click here to purchase the 2019 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 2019 Toyota Vitz

Affordable

Good fuel economy

What we don’t

Limited cargo space especially in the Hybrid variant

Conclusion

The 2019 Toyota Vitz is a reasonably priced, dependable vehicle with good fuel economy. The availability of spare parts throughout the country is an added convenience to owners, which is why urban drivers and individuals in the taxi business opt for it over any other vehicle. Individuals on a tight budget can buy this car as its price is reasonable as well as service and maintenance. Click here to download a copy of the 2019 Toyota Vitz Owner’s Manual.