The Fast & Efficient Toyota Vitz 2010 Review

Toyota Vitz 2010 Review

Remember I mentioned that the Toyota Vitz is known as the Toyota Yaris in certain parts of the world?

Watch a review of the 2010 version of this car below.

The Toyota Vitz 2010, also known as the Toyota Yaris in some markets, is a subcompact hatchback that is well-regarded for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Manufactured by Toyota, the Vitz is a popular choice in many countries, especially in urban areas where its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through traffic and park in tight spaces.

Overview of the Toyota Vitz 2010

The 2010 Toyota Vitz belongs to the second generation (XP90), which was produced from 2005 to 2010 before being replaced by the third generation in 2010. It is available in three-door and five-door hatchback configurations, making it suitable for different needs. It is primarily a front-wheel-drive vehicle, although some models come with all-wheel drive (AWD) in specific markets.

Engine Options and Performance

The Toyota Vitz 2010 comes with several engine choices, depending on the market and trim level. These include:

1.0L (1KR-FE) 3-cylinder engine – Produces around 68 horsepower and is known for its excellent fuel efficiency, making it ideal for city driving.
1.3L (2SZ-FE or 1NR-FE) 4-cylinder engine – Produces around 85–87 horsepower and offers a balance between fuel economy and power.
1.5L (1NZ-FE) 4-cylinder engine – Produces around 106 horsepower, providing more power for highway driving. This engine is also available in the sportier RS model.

The transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), depending on the variant and market. The automatic transmission is more common, especially in urban environments where stop-and-go traffic is frequent.

Fuel Economy

One of the biggest selling points of the Toyota Vitz 2010 is its excellent fuel efficiency. The actual fuel consumption varies depending on the engine size and transmission, but the average fuel economy is between 16-20 km/l (37-47 mpg). The 1.0L engine is the most fuel-efficient, while the 1.5L engine consumes slightly more fuel but offers better acceleration and highway performance.

Interior and Features

The Toyota Vitz 2010 has a practical and comfortable interior, especially for a subcompact car. The design is simple but functional, and it includes:

Fabric seats with adjustable headrests
Power windows and power mirrors (depending on trim)
Air conditioning
A digital instrument cluster (in some variants)
CD/MP3 player with speakers (higher trims may have a touchscreen infotainment system)
Foldable rear seats to increase cargo space

While the interior is not particularly luxurious, it is well-built and offers good headroom and legroom for a car of its size.

Safety Features

Safety has always been a priority for Toyota, and the Vitz 2010 comes with several safety features, including:

Dual front airbags
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Brake Assist
Seatbelt pretensioners
ISOFIX child seat anchors

Some higher trims or export models may also include side airbags, traction control, and stability control. The Toyota Vitz 2010 received decent safety ratings in crash tests, making it a reliable choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Driving Experience

The Toyota Vitz 2010 is known for its smooth and stable ride, making it a comfortable car for city driving. The steering is light, making it easy to navigate through traffic and park in tight spots. However, due to its small engine sizes, acceleration can feel sluggish, especially with the 1.0L engine. The 1.5L engine provides better performance for highway driving and overtaking.

Photo credits: CarsWP.com

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