In the competitive world of compact crossovers, the 2024 Toyota Raize has emerged as a standout. Combining a bold design, practical features, and an efficient performance package, the Raize impresses urban drivers and small families looking for a vehicle that balances style and functionality. Whether navigating busy city streets or enjoying a weekend getaway, the Toyota Raize offers an impressive driving experience focusing on safety, comfort, and performance. This comprehensive review delves into what makes the 2024 Raize a formidable contender in the compact crossover segment.
Toyota Raize 2024: A Bold and Youthful Design
The exterior of the 2024 Toyota Raize is unmistakable, featuring a youthful and dynamic design that attracts attention from every angle. With a compact size of 4030mm in length, 1710mm in width, and a height of 1605mm, it provides an ideal balance between maneuverability and SUV-like presence. The front end features Toyota’s signature trapezoidal grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that give the Raize an aggressive and modern look. The sporty design is accentuated by a dynamic character line running from the front fenders to the rear, creating a sense of motion even when stationary.
The elevated 200 mm ground clearance adds to the SUV’s appeal, allowing the Raize to handle light off-road terrains with ease while remaining city-friendly. Available in various bold colors and two-tone options, the Raize allows for personalized expression. The GR Sport variant, in particular, stands out with sporty bumpers, a unique grille design, and exclusive badging, catering to those who desire a more athletic appearance.
Interior Comfort: Practical Yet Premium
Step inside the 2024 Toyota Raize, and you’ll find a cabin that punches above its weight class. Toyota has ensured that even in a compact crossover, occupants enjoy a comfortable experience. The interior features a driver-centric design, with all essential controls within easy reach. High-quality materials throughout the cabin give the Raize a more premium feel than most vehicles in this segment.
The Raize comfortably seats five passengers with ample space, offering generous headroom and legroom in front and rear. The rear seats can be folded in a 60:40 split, expanding cargo space for oversized items. Clever storage solutions, including large door pockets and a spacious center console, add to the cabin’s practicality. The higher trim levels come with leather-appointed seats, bringing a touch of luxury to the interior. For those who crave a sportier feel, the GR Sport variant features sports seats with enhanced bolstering and exclusive stitching patterns, further elevating the interior experience.
Technology and Infotainment: Connectivity at Its Best
The 2024 Toyota Raize isn’t just about looks—it’s equipped with technology that ensures you stay connected and entertained on every journey. At the heart of the infotainment system is a responsive touchscreen display (size varies by trim level) that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so drivers can seamlessly connect their smartphones. The system’s interface is intuitive, making it easy to navigate through various functions while keeping the focus on the road.
Higher trims offer a digital instrument cluster, allowing drivers to customize the information displayed on their dashboard. The Raize also offers a premium sound system option, delivering crisp audio for those who appreciate high-quality sound. Additional tech features include keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, and a rear-view camera with parking sensors. Some trims also offer wireless smartphone charging pads for added convenience.
Performance and Powertrain: A Choice of Engines for Every Driver
The 2024 Toyota Raize offers two engine options to cater to different driving preferences and needs. The first option is a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine that produces 87 horsepower and 113 Nm of torque. The second, more powerful option is a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that generates 97 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque. Depending on the trim level, both engines offer the choice between a 5-speed manual transmission and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
The CVT option provides smooth and efficient acceleration, making it perfect for city driving, where stop-and-go traffic is expected. On the other hand, the manual transmission appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. In terms of fuel efficiency, both engine options perform admirably. The 1.2-liter variant delivers an impressive 18-20 km/l, while the turbocharged 1.0-liter engine manages 16-18 km/l in mixed driving conditions, making the Raize an efficient choice for daily commutes and long drives.
Safety Features: Toyota’s Commitment to Protection
Safety has always been a top priority for Toyota, and the 2024 Raize is no exception. The compact crossover comes equipped with a robust suite of standard safety features, including:
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
- Traction Control
- Hill-start Assist Control
- Multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain)
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
For those seeking additional peace of mind, higher trim levels, particularly the TSS (Toyota Safety Sense) variant, come equipped with advanced driver assistance features, such as:
- Pre-collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert
- Automatic High Beam
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
These safety technologies are designed to reduce the risk of accidents and enhance the overall driving experience.
Trim Levels and Pricing: Affordable Luxury
The 2024 Toyota Raize is available in multiple trim levels, ensuring a model to fit various budgets and preferences. Prices may vary depending on the market and local taxes, but here’s an overview of the Philippine pricing:
- 1.2 E MT – Starting at ₱751,000
- 1.2 E CVT – Priced at ₱841,000
- 1.2 G CVT – Available for ₱936,000
- 1.0 Turbo CVT – Starting at ₱1,063,000
- 1.0 Turbo GR Sport CVT – Priced higher for a sportier look
- 1.0 Turbo GR Sport CVT TSS – The top-tier model, equipped with all advanced safety features
Even the base model comes well-equipped with essential features, making the Raize a great value proposition.
Driving Experience: Agile, Comfortable, and Fun
The 2024 Toyota Raize is a joy to drive, offering an excellent balance of comfort, agility, and performance. Its elevated seating position provides excellent visibility, making navigating urban environments or highways easy. The 1.2-liter engine delivers enough power for daily driving, while the turbocharged 1.0-liter engine adds a sprightly performance character, perfect for those who enjoy a more engaging driving experience.
Handling is predictable and secure, with minimal body roll even on winding roads. The suspension system is tuned to provide a smooth ride, soaking up road imperfections without sacrificing control. Its compact size and tight turning radius make parking and maneuvering in busy city streets a breeze.
Customization and Accessories: Tailor Your Raize
Toyota offers a wide range of genuine accessories for the 2024 Raize, allowing owners to personalize their vehicles to suit their preferences. Available accessories include:
- Exterior enhancements like body kits and decal sets
- Interior upgrades such as illuminated scuff plates and premium floor mats
- Practical additions like roof racks and cargo organizers
- Technology upgrades like dash cams and enhanced sound systems
The GR Sport variants come with their own accessories, catering to customers who want to enhance their vehicle’s sporty look and feel.
Why Choose the 2024 Toyota Raize?
The 2024 Toyota Raize is more than just a compact crossover; it combines efficiency, style, and practicality in a way that few others in its class can match. With its bold design, comfortable interior, impressive fuel economy, and advanced safety features, it’s a fantastic option for those needing a versatile and reliable vehicle for city driving and weekend getaways.
Although there are some areas where improvements can be made, such as engine power in the base models and the appeal of the CVT transmission to driving enthusiasts, the 2024 Toyota Raize excels in providing a balanced driving experience with impressive features at a competitive price point.
As Toyota continues to redefine what it means to drive a compact crossover, the 2024 Toyota Raize is poised to lead the charge,. It will capture the attention of buyers who want a reliable, stylish, and efficient vehicle for modern living.