For the longest time, Filipino car buyers have been captivated by the Toyota Veloz. It combines the best elements of an MPV and a subcompact crossover SUV, and has been a huge success in other parts of Southeast Asia. Locally, however, it hasn't received much attention. But things are about to change with the 2022 Toyota Veloz.
The 2022 Toyota Veloz has a distinct design that sets it apart from its stablemate, the Avanza. It leans more aggressively towards marketing itself as a subcompact crossover SUV. With its sleek and modern appearance, it aims to catch people's attention and change their perception of the vehicle.
Exterior
Comparisons to the popular Toyota Avanza are inevitable, as they share the same platform and chassis. However, the 2022 Toyota Veloz has undergone significant changes to differentiate itself. Starting with the front fascia, it features a sportier hexagonal grille inspired by larger Toyota models like the RAV4 and Corolla Cross. The aggressive front end is further enhanced by split-type LED headlamps and halogen fog lamps. The black plastic cladding all around completes the crossover SUV look.
Overall, the Toyota Veloz deserves its own nameplate. It's not just a variant with boy-racer kits added to an existing platform. The Veloz is a legitimate subcompact crossover SUV with its own unique design.
Interior
Stepping inside the 2022 Toyota Veloz, you'll notice a significant improvement in the interior amenities compared to the brand's small MPV. The dashboard exudes a premium feel with soft-touch materials and subtle ambient lighting. The nine-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility adds to the modern and luxurious experience. The fully digital gauge clusters provide high-resolution graphics and a sleek appearance. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the rear seats offer versatility with its adjustable configurations.
The interior design of the 2022 Toyota Veloz is functional and stylish, without going overboard with futuristic elements.
Performance and fuel economy
Under the hood, the Toyota Veloz is equipped with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that delivers 105hp and 138 Nm of torque. The power figures are adequate for its purpose of comfortable and safe transportation. The MacPherson struts in the front and torsion bar in the rear provide a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) complements the engine well, offering a focused and precise drive. The dual-mode CVT eliminates the dreaded CVT drone at highway speeds, improving fuel efficiency and enhancing the overall driving experience.
Speaking of fuel efficiency, the 2022 Toyota Veloz is quite impressive. It offers excellent mileage, especially considering the current high fuel prices. Whether you're driving in the city or on the highway, the Veloz proves to be a fuel-efficient choice.
Safety
Safety is a top priority for modern cars, and the 2022 Toyota Veloz doesn't disappoint. It comes equipped with standard safety features such as six airbags, anti-lock brakes, and seatbelts with Isofix anchors. Additionally, the Veloz now includes Toyota Safety Sense, which offers advanced safety features like pre-collision systems, automatic high beams, and lane departure warning systems. The combination of these features ensures a safe and secure driving experience.
Pricing and Conclusion
The all-new 2022 Toyota Veloz is priced competitively, starting at P1,185,000 for the 1.5 G variant. The variant we tested, the 1.5 V, is available for P1,225,000. It offers a great value for money compared to competing models from other brands, such as the Honda BR-V, Mitsubishi Xpander Cross, and Suzuki XL7.
In conclusion, the 2022 Toyota Veloz is a fun, capable, and practical crossover SUV. It provides an elevated driving experience for those looking to upgrade from sedans or hatchbacks. The Veloz proves that power isn't everything, as it focuses on delivering a smile-inducing driving experience. So, if you're in the market for a subcompact crossover SUV, the 2022 Toyota Veloz is definitely worth considering.