Long-term test review: Toyota Verso - pictures

Stowage in the front complements the generous luggage area at the rear. There are two gloveboxes to add some extra versatility. 

Website editor Steve Walker's family has grown recently, so the Verso is being put to the test.

Visibility whilst driving has impressed.

The Toyota's seating system isn't as slick as some. The process of folding and sliding the seats isn't as seamless as those in some rivals and can require some elbow grease. The catches and chairs themselves feel solid, though.

Our pushchairs fit in the back easily and there's still plenty of room for other stuff to be piled on top.

A bout of pre-baby DIY meant we tested the Verso's practicality by fitting six eight-foot floor boards in with two passengers still able to fit in.

Cabin is well-built and feels solid, if a little unexciting.

Storage space is plentiful, and the big centrsl cubby with two cup-holders is useful.

The lack of standard parking sensors is frustrating. Although you get a rear camera, judging distances on the small display is tricky without bleeps.

Steve Walker - Toyota Verso <a href="https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/toyota/verso/92373/long-term-test-review-toyota-verso">long-term test</a>

The introduction of BMW diesel engines has helped broaden the Verso's appeal. The 1.6-litre fitted to our car is a little clattery at idle, but on the move it's smooth and reasonably responsive.&nbsp;

The Verso now emits a company-car friendly 119g/km of CO2 and is currently returning 46.6mpg, despite spending most of its time running around in stop-start traffic.&nbsp;

We've raided the options list for our model, including the £550 Skyview panoramic sunroof.&nbsp;

Most of the time we've got the car in 'five seats and big boot' configuration - meaning the Verso is very roomy.

Inside, the plastics look a little low-rent in places, and you don't get the glossy or soft-touch finishes you'd find in some rivals, but everything feels like it'll last.

The Toyota serves up plenty of space for all the family.

Dials are situated in the centre of the dashboard. We're currently getting 46.6mpg and it costs £65 to fill up the tank.

Infotainment and sat-nav screen in centre console is smaller than we've come to expect from today's cars.&nbsp;

The diesel engine is smooth, but it's not overly torquey so you're often forced to drop a gear to accelerate from low speeds.

Storage cubby beneath the gearlever keeps items out of sight.

There are few styling flourishes to distinguish the Verso from its rivals.

Our Verso is a mid-spec Icon model.

On the road, the Verso is reasonably comfortable - although the occasional shudder runs through the suspension over big bumps - and it resists rolling around too much through direction changes.&nbsp;