Toyota Veloz

• The 1.5-litre engine produces 104hp and 138 Nm of torque. It's not powerful, but it doesn't need to be. For daily driving with passengers, it's adequate. The CVT transmission with 7-speed simulation keeps things smooth.

• Real-world fuel consumption sits around 16-17km/litre. That's respectable for a 7-seater carrying weight. Highway driving pushes efficiency a bit better, around 19-20 km/litre.

• The Dual VVT-i variable valve timing technology adjusts continuously based on driving conditions. It's the same tech in the Yaris, which means it's proven, reliable engineering. It optimises power and efficiency, nothing fancy, just practical.

• Drive Mode Select is useful, and you get Normal, Eco, and Power modes.

Some limitations:

• Throttle response is not the best, also don't expect snappy acceleration. It takes time to build momentum, especially with a full cabin.

• The steering is light and easy, which is good for parking and city driving, but doesn't inspire confidence in spirited cornering.

• The suspension is soft and comfortable, but body roll is noticeable in tight bends. It's tuned for comfort over handling, which is the right call for this vehicle's purpose.

• Climb a steep hill with everyone inside, and the engine works hard. Overtaking on single-lane highways requires planning and patience.

• You’ll notice that on mostly smooth city roads, the suspension does a perfect job of absorbing bumps without harshness. The steering is quite light and easy, which means that during crowded roads or heavy traffic, you can handle it with less effort. Due to the high seating position, the visibility is nothing to complain about and the windows are quite large for the overall side view.

• Corners show body roll, especially with a full load. The compact SUV leans noticeably, but it never feels out of control. Grip is adequate for normal driving speeds. You won't feel the car struggling on everyday roads.

• The trade-off is deliberate. Soft suspension and light steering prioritise comfort and ease of use over sporty handling. For families with children and elderly passengers, that's the right choice. People aren't buying a Veloz to corner at speed. They're buying it for practicality and comfort.

• Ride isolation is decent for this price point. The suspension is compliant enough to smooth out rough roads but firm enough that you notice serious potholes. In heavy traffic on bumpy streets, the ride stays composed. Road noise is present, but it doesn't bother.

• The overall feel is calm and stable, which reduces driver fatigue on long drives.

One thing to appreciate:

This car is highly predictable. It doesn't surprise you with sudden behaviours. The car does what you expect it to do, when you expect it. That's valuable in a family vehicle.

• The 8-inch touchscreen is responsive and seamless, with Apple CarPlay coming standard, so your phone's maps and apps are accessible. USB ports are placed throughout the cabin, one in front, two in the rear. The wireless charger for your phone is a nice touch that feels more premium than the price suggests.

• Climate control uses automatic AC upfront and manual vents for the rear. In Saudi heat, the air conditioning responds quickly and keeps the cabin cool. The rear vents make a real difference on long drives with passengers in the back. Even on 50-degree days, it stays comfortable inside.

• Seating uses fabric with leather accents, not full leather. The material is durable for families with kids. It's practical upholstery that hides stains better than pristine leather would.

• The second row gets captain-style seats on some trims, which means you can walk through to the third row. The third row is genuinely usable for children or adults on shorter trips. Fold the second and third rows down, and you get a massive cargo area.

• Storage is scattered throughout the cabin, including door pockets, cup holders, centre console storage, and shelves everywhere.

• The steering wheel is leather-wrapped with audio controls on higher trims. The instrument cluster is simple and clear. You get what you need without overwhelming information. LED ambient lighting in the cabin adds a touch of modernity without being overdone.

• The push-button start and electric parking brake are features that used to be premium only. Now they're standard on the Veloz.

Honest impression:

• The interior doesn't feel expensive. It feels functional. 

• Toyota stripped out unnecessary luxury and kept the stuff that matters. For the price, that's the right balance.

• The Veloz gets 6 airbags, two front airbags for driver and passenger, two side airbags, and two curtain airbags that protect all three rows. The structure uses high-tensile steel with crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy.

• ABS with electronic brake-force distribution comes standard. Vehicle Stability Control helps prevent skids on slippery surfaces. Traction Control prevents wheel spin in low-grip situations. Hill-Start Assist Control helps on slopes, so you won't roll backwards when starting on an incline.

• The rear-view monitor makes reversing easier, especially when parking at awkward angles. Parking sensors front and rear confirm distances. Tire Pressure Monitoring alerts you if any tyre drops below the recommended pressure.

• The Brake Hold System is underrated. Once you stop at a red light, the brakes hold automatically without you pressing the pedal. Release comes naturally when you press the accelerator. It reduces driver fatigue in stop-and-go traffic.

Keep in Mind

• The Veloz hasn't undergone independent crash testing by Euro NCAP, but Toyota's safety engineering is proven globally. 

• The focus is on occupant protection through solid structure and active safety systems that prevent accidents before they happen.