There's a lot more to the upgraded-for-2013 Toyota Verso MPV than its new Auris-inspired front end. This is a comprehensive upgrade in which Toyota claims to have replaced more than 470 parts.
The biggest exterior alteration, of course, is that new front end with its 'dual zone' grille and headlight style that we first saw on the recently-revealed 2013 Auris.
Changes to the side and rear view are far more subtle and while the basic shapes remain, the Verso does sport new side mirrors, a restyled rear bumper and re-coloured taillights. Two new 16- and 17-inch alloy wheel designs round off the external changes.
DECORATION TIME
Moving inside, the basic design remains as before, except you'll find some new satin black finishing here, some soft-touch material there and satin chrome highlights just about everywhere. Besides decorating the seats with some new fabrics, bolster support has also been improved.
One thing that hasn't changed, though, is the 'Easy Flat' seating system that accommodates seven people and allows 32 different seating combinations.
This upgrade is not just about what you see - extra sound damping is in place to ensure that you hear less from the outside world.
The only real news on the engine front concerns the 94kW 2-litre D-4D diesel, which has been tinkered with to ensure quieter operation, lower emissions (130g/km) and to deliver more torque at lower revs.
European buyers also get the option of a 132kW 2.2-litre oil burner, while the petrol choice includes a 98kW 1.6 and 110kW 1.8.
Various under-the-skin changes also make the new Verso more rigid and more stable around the bends.
We're currently awaiting word from Toyota SA on the new Verso's expected local launch timing.