In an era of rising new car prices, Toyota offers a refreshing option with its SUV model, the Raize X, priced at 1,807,000 JPY (approximately 12,600 USD) in Japan. This vehicle stands out as a remarkably affordable option compared to subcompact SUVs, establishing itself as a dominant player in the market for compact SUVs under 4 meters (13.1 feet). Such a low price for a new car is nearly impossible to find outside developing countries.
The Raize, created from a collaboration between Toyota and Daihatsu, has been a bestseller in Japan since 2019. Among its variants, the X trim impresses as a budget-friendly entry model that maintains essential features, leaving a strong impression on urban SUV seekers. It effectively attracts attention, often leading buyers to consider other trims of the Raize. It serves as a hooking product, but there’s no need to worry about the basic model lacking features.
A Small Car with a Strong Presence: Offers Ample Legroom and Headroom
The Raize X is 3,995mm (157.3 inches) long, 1,695mm (66.7 inches) wide, and 1,620mm (63.8 inches) high. Its compact body makes maneuverability in narrow alleys and crowded parking spaces easy. The design is small yet impactful, with a square shape and a silhouette resembling a scaled-down version of the RAV4. The exterior uses steel wheels with wheel caps instead of aluminum wheels, reducing decorative elements but highlighting a functional, practical layout.
The interior centers around a black tone, with silver accents adding a touch of sophistication to the simplicity. While features like a digital instrument cluster or automatic air conditioning are absent, the vehicle still excels in basic comfort and space. Notably, the rear-seat legroom and headroom are spacious for its class, showcasing a design focused on everyday practicality. A car like this truly embodies that definition.
Impressive Fuel Efficiency of 66 mpg: Standard Safety Features Included
The Raize X offers a choice between a 1,000cc turbocharged gasoline engine and a 1,200cc naturally aspirated engine. The turbo engine produces 98 horsepower, while the naturally aspirated engine delivers 87 horsepower, with a maximum torque of around 14.3 kgf·m (101.7 lb-ft) for the turbo version, providing sufficient performance for city driving.
The combined fuel efficiency is impressive, with the gasoline model achieving 20.7 km/L (48.8 mpg) and the hybrid trim reaching an outstanding 28.0 km/L (66.1 mpg), making it one of the best in the small SUV category.
The Raize also includes essential safety features. Standard features include collision avoidance assist, lane departure warning, curtain airbags, and LED headlights. While higher trims offer additional features like smart cruise control and automatic parking assist, the base model is fully equipped to meet daily driving and safety needs without compromise.
An Unbelievable Price: A Rational Choice and the Optimal Solution
The Raize X challenges the common perception that new cars are always expensive. It offers an almost unbelievable price by eliminating unnecessary features and focusing on essential functions. As a result, it has become a popular choice in Japan as a first car for families of four. It’s also affordable for young professionals, making it a beloved vehicle for all ages and genders.
This model is worth considering for consumers who want to experience the appeal of an SUV without the hefty price tag. While it lacks features like ambient lighting or smart cruise control, it still provides an urban SUV’s practicality and basic qualities. For those who prioritize rationality and practicality, the Raize X offers the ideal solution.
