Toyota Raize G CVT – First Impressions

I knew Toyota was biding their time to enter the small crossover market. It wasn’t long ago when they did the same thing with small hatchbacks, letting other brands take the first step into the segment until they had a Wigo to compete with. The only mystery is what they’ll bring since they have quite a few options in their hands. Well, we got our answer earlier this month.

The Toyota Raize is a small crossover that starts well under a million at P746,000. It will compete with the likes of the Kia Stonic, Chery Tiggo 2 Pro, and to an extent, the larger MG ZS. I’m excited about it because of its price point and features but I’m also skeptical since the last rebadged Daihatsu they brought in, the Rush, wasn’t exactly emotive.

All that aside, I was given a few hours with the G CVT which is one trim below the turbo model. The biggest difference is this has a 1.2-liter engine with no turbo that makes 87 horsepower and 113 Nm of torque, paired to a CVT. But before we go into the performance, let’s talk about the basics first. 

The Raize has a strong initial appeal thanks to its styling. It’s somehow reminiscent of the RAV4 thanks to its front fascia, but the overall body shape also silhouettes that of a real SUV. Even passers-by stopped to ask me about the car because of its looks. It’s not all flair too since this Raize is well equipped for its exterior amenities. LED headlights, Daytime Running Lights, taillights, a sequential turn signal infront, and power folding side mirrors. 

My admiration continued inside within seconds after I got in the driver’s seat. I loved how there are soft contact points for the front passengers with the padded arm rest on the door panels and on the center console. Yes! They’re kind enough to put a center console despite the small space in between. Cup holders below the air vents on the ends of the dash also made its return, moving away from the center console. The leather on the steering wheel felt more ‘leathery’ than what they used in the Vios. Seats are nicely bolstered but not restricting that a wide man like me still finds it very comfortable. 

Screens were also prominent in the Raize. This has an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that’s also available in the lower variants. It doesn’t have the best interface but became fairly decent once smartphone software took over. Then there’s a 7-inch digital screen for the gauge and vehicle info that’s highly customizable. Other features include a push-start button, automatic aircon, lighting for the USB port and 12v socket, smart entry system, 6 speakers, and lighted entry system.

The overall feel of the cabin is a step above other re-badged Daihatsu models in the Philippines like the Wigo, Rush, and Avanza. It’s hard plastic but not tacky and sounds more solid. Not that one will be consistently knocking on these parts but speaks a lot when things like this are given value. I also appreciate the extra mile they did to incorporate different textures. The dash has subtle patterns on the upper and lower portion, there are silver accents on the cubby holes by the center console, another texture on the shifter, and of course the one on the seats. 

As for space, there’s just enough of it for 5’6 me. Legroom at the back is adequate despite my normal driving position, and headroom is a bit generous thanks to the tall styling of the car. People taller than me can still fit in the backseat but you’d ask for more legroom from the front occupants. The cargo area is also big enough for most normal things like luggages, baby strollers, or a guitar case.

What literally surprised me is the lively engine. The 1.2-liter engine is more than glad to take you beyond 2,000 rpm whenever you want to, as if it’s something bigger. It had no problem going over a hump on an incline and it felt more peppy than the 1.3-liter engine in the lower variants of the Vios. However, since it was a short date with the car, I only got it to 30-40 kph and engine noise is very apparent, but that’s expected of a 3-cylinder engine. What you won’t notice is the shifting unless you don’t have music inside the car. It’s very smooth and again, felt better than the one in the Vios. Take note that this is for low to medium speed only, things might change once we get it out for a full drive. 

As for safety, you’re well protected with dual front airbags, ABS, stability control, hill-start assist, ISOFIX tethers, immobilizer, alarm, rear camera with line guide, and rear sensors. 

This Toyota Raize G CVT is priced at P906,000, a significant P125,000 cheaper than the top of the line variant. No one will feel short changed with this just with the impression of the cabin alone, more so once you take it out for a drive. The only consideration to make so far is if you’re coming from a sedan, you might find the cargo space of the Raize a bit smaller. However, if you’re looking for your first car that will last from your bachelor days until you build your own family, the Raize is waiting.