Toyota Raize

• This compact SUV is offered with two engine options: the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder producing 87 hp and 113 Nm, and the 1.0-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder generating 98 hp with better mid-range response. Both get the same CVT transmissions, highly improved for smoothness and efficiency.

• This car is also known for its higher fuel efficiency, which makes it affordable for everyday city commuting.

• The Raise is 3,995 mm in length, 1,660 mm in width, 1,620 mm in height, with a 2,525 mm wheelbase, which makes it truly compact. Hence offers benefits like easier parking in congested city roads, the turning radius is tight, with elevated seating that provides an SUV feel.

• The 200 mm of ground clearance makes it ideal to navigate KSA's city roads with ease, and also some light off-road situations like rough desert tracks. Not engineered for serious off-roading, but suitable for demanding daily driving conditions.

• The MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension deliver comfortable ride composure. The cabin is comfortable with bumps absorbed smoothly on rougher road conditions.  For daily commuting, this tuning works.

• Electric power steering is light and responsive. Parking becomes effortless. Highway stability remains composed.

Some compromises

• The 1.0L turbo, while peppy, isn't about performance, as the acceleration feels just enough.

• The 1.2L engine feels underpowered with a full load of passengers and cargo.

• No all-wheel drive, which is fine for paved roads. Serious wadi crossings require caution.

• Wind noise above 160 km/h is noticeable, and cabin insulation is decent but not premium.

• On smooth highways, the suspension absorbs minor imperfections effectively, and the ride feels composed. On highway driving, you won’t feel easily tired, and the typical SUV's elevated driving position reduces posture adjustments common in sedans.

• The steering response is immediate and properly weighted, and for City driving, it feels controlled without excessive feedback. The body control in corners is competent. You would not experience excessive roll, and so the stability control works quietly in the background.

• The compact turning radius of approximately 4.8 metres makes parking straightforward and much easier. The smaller width makes it effortless to move through traffic.

• Hill-Start Assist prevents rollback on inclines, and Vehicle Stability Control prevents skids during challenging driving situations.

• The turbo variant performs noticeably better, with stronger mid-range power than the 1.2L. Highway driving feels effortless. The CVT transmission is quite well-tuned which assures a smooth acceleration, and you hardly search for a gear; it is quite linear and friendly.

Some compromises

• On some challenging and rough road conditions, there are noticeable vibrations in the cabin, and the suspension prioritises comfort over sportiness.

• The engine noise becomes quite noticeable during acceleration, especially the 1.0L turbo under load. Wind and tyre noise at speeds above 160 km/h is apparent but not intrusive.

• The 8-inch touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota isn’t always known for sleek tech, but this works really well with quick response. Your audio needs are fulfilled by four speakers that provide functional entertainment. Don’t expect them to be premium, but they work just fine

• The 3.5-inch multi-information display is good for displaying driver data clearly. The analogue gauges with digital overlay are easily readable and straightforward, due to price competitiveness, you won’t get much.

• The fabric seats offer decent enhanced support for your daily driving grind. The higher trims are offered with a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The seats are really good, offering great support and comfort for long drives. Again, do the job well, competently but certainly not luxurious.

• Single-zone automatic climate control and rear air conditioning outlets are essential for 50-degree Saudi summers, they are really good for the SUV of this price segment.

• Parking sensors front and rear are standard, and the reverse camera serves well. The 360-degree camera eliminates blind spots and eases parking.

• An electric sunroof on select trims opens the cabin, and feels genuinely useful, something now standard across SUVs.

• Boot space measures 369 litres, another family-friendly aspect of the SUV. This is perfect for what families need in their everyday needs, either shopping, airport trips or family road travel.

• The list of some notable features that are offered as standard includes power windows, central locking, and keyless entry. The dashboard design is subtle, minimalist and accessible. Like you expect in a Toyota car, the build quality is up to the mark, and plastics feel solid. Nothing gives you an indication of luxury but undoubtedly functions and is durable.

What we know

• The high-tensile steel body with front and rear crumple zones absorbs impact effectively, and the safety cell focuses on occupant protection.

• The Six standard airbags for the driver, passenger, front side, and curtain airbags. Three-point pre-tensioned seat belts with emergency locking. Child safety locks and ISOFIX anchors enable secure child seat installation.

• The anti-lock braking system with Brake Assist helps avoid wheel lockup. The electronic stability control manages vehicle dynamics, and hill-start assist prevents rollback.

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System alerts drivers of pressure drops, and moving object detection warns of hazards behind the vehicles.

What is less clear

• The Raize has not undergone independent crash testing by Euro NCAP or IIHS yet. Toyota's track record is excellent. Previous models received strong ratings, but independent verification is pending.

• Lacks adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, or lane keeping assist across all trims.