Toyota literally pulled the Veloz from the Avanza lineup and made it its own model. The former range-topping variant got its own nameplate and moved up into the subcompact crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment — instead of playing in the same multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) category.

But does the former MPV worth your hard-earned money? Today, we look at the pros and cons of Toyota’s small SUV.

Pros

Upscale looks

The Toyota Veloz undoubtedly looks upscale — especially when compared to its sibling, the Avanza.

At the fore is a posh grille befitting its new premium design. It is flanked by split-type LED headlamps, LED clearance lamps (with LED guide light), and front fog lamps. At the rear are a pair of LED rear combination lamps, a rear back door garnish with an LED line guide, and a rear spoiler.

Other exterior appointments include overfenders, a stylish roof rail, a fin-type antenna, and rides on 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, it boasts seats that are finished with a combination of fabric and synthetic leather, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a leather-wrapped shift knob.

Spacious interior

The interior of the Toyota Veloz is not only luxurious as it is spacious.

All that space gives way for better storage solutions. It has two cup holders and four bottle holders in the front row; one cup holder and four bottle holders in the second row; and four bottle holders in the third row.

In addition, the seats — all the way to the third row — offer decent head and legroom.

Modern amenities

And while we’re still inside the cabin, let’s appreciate the modern amenities inside the Toyota Veloz.

Taking center stage is either an eight-inch or a nine-inch infotainment display which comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Past the multi-functional steering wheel is a large seven-inch instrument cluster.

Cons

Same engine as the Avanza

Under the hood, the Toyota Veloz is equipped with a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine. Mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it makes a maximum of 104 horsepower (hp) with 138 Nm of torque.

The powerplant, however, was derived from the Toyota Avanza. The now range-topping Avanza G CVT trim uses the same engine and makes as much power and torque.

With a bit of math, you’re getting the same gasoline mill for a price difference of P151,000.

The Toyota Veloz is offered in two trims: Veloz G CVT and Veloz V CVT. They are priced at P1.210 million and P1.265 million, respectively. 

Photos from Paulo Papa and Ruben Manahan IV

Also read: 

Spotting the differences between the Toyota Veloz and Toyota Avanza

The clash of compact crossover SUVs: Toyota Veloz vs. Honda BR-V