TOYOTA PASSO AT A GLANCE

MODEL

A successful supermini from Toyota that’s available globally under different names from more than one manufacturer. Read on and we’ll explain. It’s not a new car and the recent update hasn’t seen any major changes because it has everything working for it – and of course, any changes would add to the cost. As far as Kei cars go, the Passo has plenty going for it but its only trump cards are frugal fuel consumption and price.

FUEL

The 1-litre engine returns 20-23km/litre.

DRIVE

Front-wheel drive or optional 4WD as is the case with many Japanese Kei cars.

POWER

With 66bhp on tap, no one’s leaving anyone in a cloud of dust at the traffic lights. The turbo model had 130bhp. Shame, really!

VERDICT

ENGINE

The 1-litre 3-cylinder petrol (1KR-FE) naturally aspirated engine is the only choice. And the 1-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder (KJ-VET) has been dropped in the third generation as has the 1.3-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol. And there are no hybrids, electronic vehicles or diesels at this time or in the pipeline.

TRANSMISSION

CVT automatic and five-speed manual in certain markets. We suggest the manual as the CVT and 3-cylinder combinations are no match made in heaven. We recommend it (though not highly) as it’s cheap and cheerful without unnecessary gimmicks – only the necessary safety gear for the budget conscious buyer who doesn’t want something from the subcontinent.