Toyota Corolla Verso

Road test

The future of diesel power is looking a little shaky, with rumours circulating about stringent new emissions legislation that threatens to see the black stuff banned in under a decade.

But for the moment, it's business as usual, and nowhere is this better illustrated than at Toyota. Two new versions of its D-4D unit have recently appeared in the Verso, offering more power and improved emissions.

This is the more powerful 175bhp 2.2-litre version, which lays claim to being not only the most powerful, but also the cleanest engine in the Verso's class.

This car is also the first in class with an all-aluminium powerplant, so it should end up lighter, thus improving the handling.

Of greater significance, though, are Toyota's attempts to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. More insulation and sound absorbent material has been used, increasing the Verso's levels of refinement.

There's also a new six-speed gearbox that is, apparently, easier to use. Thanks to the use of a really low viscosity oil, the unit also serves to improve fuel consumption. By, er, one per cent.

And it does all seem to be doing the job, but it's actually quite hard to tell, when the changes are that modest.

No breathtaking advances then, but a whole series of very sensible shuffles in the right diesel direction. Let's just hope it's not all for nothing.

Price £20,900
Performance 0-60mph in 8.8secs, 128mph max speed, 41.5mpg