First Look: Toyota Passo

The vehicle comes in two distinct model styles: the simple and unpretentious "Passo", which offers a sense reassurance and familiarity, and the "Passo + Hana", which imbues an understated glamour for a strong impression. These unique designs, along with 11 available body colors, create variety that enables vehicle selection ideally suited to express individuality. Thanks to efforts made to enhance ease-of-operation, utility and drivability, including the redesign of the front pillars for better visibility and the creation of more storage space within easy reach of the driver, the vehicle is more appealing than ever—especially with its highly affordable price, which starts at 1 million yen (S$15,557).

The compact body (length: 3,640 mm [Passo + Hana: 3,650 mm]; width: 1,665 mm; height: 1,535 mm) seats five adults comfortably and has a roomy luggage space ideal for everyday use.

The adoption of a column shift allows easy movement between the front seats, while optimal seat placement secures ample legroom for the rear seats.

The shape of the front pillars, 10-mm-higher hip point and a lowered beltline combine to improve driver visibility.

In addition to a minimal turning radius of 4.3 m (when using 13-inch tires), ease-of-driving has been enhanced with a reverse-linked side-view mirror on the front-passenger side (standard on the 1.3G and L package vehicles) and the rearview monitor (available as a manufacturer's option on all models except the V package), both of which allow a clear view of parking space lines.

The compact body (length: 3,640 mm [Passo + Hana: 3,650 mm]; width: 1,665 mm; height: 1,535 mm) seats five adults comfortably and has a roomy luggage space ideal for everyday use.

The adoption of a column shift allows easy movement between the front seats, while optimal seat placement secures ample legroom for the rear seats.

The shape of the front pillars, 10-mm-higher hip point and a lowered beltline combine to improve driver visibility.

In addition to a minimal turning radius of 4.3 m (when using 13-inch tires), ease-of-driving has been enhanced with a reverse-linked side-view mirror on the front-passenger side (standard on the 1.3G and L package vehicles) and the rearview monitor (available as a manufacturer's option on all models except the V package), both of which allow a clear view of parking space lines.

All models adopt a continuously variable transmission (CVT), with both the 1.0-liter 1KR-FE engine and the new 1.3-liter 1NR-FE engine featuring the Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system, thus giving a smooth, comfortable, stable ride. An Eco Driving Indicator that shows fuel-efficient vehicle operation and a button-operated driving status monitor that indicates the vehicle's average fuel efficiency are both standard on all Passo models.

The VSC & TRC system (Vehicle Stability Control & Traction Control system; available as a manufacturer's option on all models except the V package)—created by combining the VSC system that monitors lateral traction and automatically controls engine output and distribution of braking force with the TRC system that limits wheel-spin during starting and acceleration—secures appropriate driving force and facilitates smooth acceleration.

All vehicles come equipped with SRS airbags for both the driver and front-passenger seats. SRS side airbags also provide chests protection, while SRS curtain-shield airbags aim to reduce head injuries.

Credits: wilswong