Toyota Corolla Verso 1.8 VVT-i

By Darren Wilson

February 2006

How can I sum up 365 days in a mere 250 words? Try just one - fantastic! It would be easy to elaborate on all the extras. The twin headrest-mounted DVD screens caused initial excitement with the children - but lately they have hardly been switched on. The sat-nav system may have helped me keep a few urgent appointments, while the front and rear parking cameras impressed my mates... but I would never trust a screen over my eyesight and instinct.

No, the real joy of this car is its simplicity. Strip away the gadgets and the Verso does exactly what it is supposed to. Even on the longest journeys, the cabin is stylish and comfortable, and I love the climate control design - it's so simple to use.

However, it's the flexible rear seating which adds a whole extra dimension to the car. The ability to switch accommodation from five to seven can't be overestimated. A year ago, I folded the rear chairs flat to transport a double bed for a colleague. Last week, I lifted up all the seats and took six people, a buggy plus luggage to London's Science Museum. It's Verso by name, versatile by nature - and if in the future Toyota should combine the Prius' hybrid technology with the Verso, it can pencil in my name as the first of many orders.

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