The second-generation Toyota Corolla Verso (code AR10) is a compact minivan designed specifically for the European market and assembled in Turkey. Launched in 2004, it stands out with its Easy Flat-7 system, allowing the rear seats to fold flat into the floor, offering excellent modularity. It benefited from a facelift in 2007 (new bumpers, taillights, and equipment updates). While the gasoline versions uphold Toyota's reputation for reliability, the diesel engines (which represent the majority of sales in Europe) have experienced major failures, tarnishing the model's overall record. Overall design score: 7/10 (penalized by the 2.2 diesels).
The Toyota Corolla Verso II is a two-faced vehicle. If you opt for a gasoline version (1.6 or 1.8 with a manual gearbox), it's a highly recommended purchase: you'll get an indestructible, practical, and economical family minivan. However, if you're targeting a diesel (which was the core of the range in France), extreme caution is advised. The 116 hp 2.0 D-4D is acceptable but aging. The 2.2 D-4D (136 hp) and D-CAT (177 hp) are to be absolutely avoided due to their engine block design flaw, unless the seller provides a Toyota invoice proving the complete engine replacement. Also avoid the MMT automated manual gearbox.
| Oil change | £80 – 150 |
| Clutch | £800 – 1 500 |
| Complete brakes | £280 – 550 |
| Estimated annual budget | £650 – 1 300 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.