Toyota Vitz I (XP10) photos

The first generation Toyota Vitz subcompact hatchback (XP10 series) made its domestic Japanese debut in January 1999. Engineered on Toyota's clean-sheet NBC (New Basic Compact) modular architecture, the vehicle was styled under the direction of Sotiris Kovos. Offered in three- and five-door hatchback body configurations, the design featured a tall roof profile, short overhangs, and distinctive almond-shaped headlamp lenses. The innovative interior layout positioned the digital instrument display centrally atop the dashboard, creating additional storage cubbies and enhancing forward visibility.

Powertrains comprised highly efficient VVT-i four-cylinder gasoline engines from the SZ and NZ families: a 1.0-liter 1SZ-FE (70 hp), a 1.3-liter 2NZ-FE (88 hp), and a 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE (110 hp). The sport-themed Vitz RS model added a high-output 1.5-liter engine, four-wheel disc brakes, stiffened suspension valving, and aerodynamic body skirts. Transmissions included five-speed manuals and four-speed automatics, with both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive (4WD) layouts available. A 2001 mid-cycle update refreshed the front bumper contours, grille, and lighting assemblies.