In the ever-evolving landscape of compact SUVs, the Toyota Raize has carved out a unique niche for itself.
Often dubbed the “Mini Fortuner” due to its striking resemblance to its larger sibling, the 2025 Raize is set to redefine expectations in the subcompact crossover segment.
Let’s delve into what makes this pint-sized powerhouse a force to be reckoned with.
Design: Compact Elegance Meets SUV Robustness
The 2025 Toyota Raize boasts a design that punches well above its weight class.
At first glance, its familial resemblance to the larger Fortuner is unmistakable, earning it the endearing “Mini Fortuner” moniker. However, the Raize is far from being a mere scaled-down version of its larger counterpart.
Key design elements include:
A bold front fascia featuring a wide grille that extends to the sides, giving the Raize a commanding presence
Sleek LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights (available on higher trims)
Pronounced wheel arches that house either 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels, depending on the variant
A floating roof design, accentuated by blacked-out A and C-pillars
LED taillights that stretch across the width of the rear, creating a modern and cohesive look
The Raize’s compact dimensions (4,030mm length, 1,710mm width, 1,635mm height) make it perfect for urban environments, while its 200mm ground clearance ensures it can handle rougher terrain when needed.
Powertrains: Efficiency Meets Performance
The 2025 Raize offers two engine options, catering to different driving preferences:
1.2-liter Naturally Aspirated Engine
Power: 87 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 113 Nm @ 4,500 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or CVT
Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 21.7 km/l (combined cycle)
1.0-liter Turbocharged Engine
Power: 97 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 140 Nm @ 2,400-4,000 rpm
Transmission: CVT only
Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 20.6 km/l (combined cycle)
Both engines offer a good balance of performance and efficiency, with the turbocharged option providing a noticeable boost in low-end torque, perfect for quick overtakes and city driving.
Interior: Compact Outside, Spacious Inside
Step inside the Raize, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the amount of space Toyota has managed to carve out of its compact exterior. The interior design is modern and functional, with a focus on maximizing usable space.
Key interior features include:
A 7-inch multi-information display in the instrument cluster (on higher trims)
An 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Automatic climate control (on higher trims)
Fabric or leather-fabric combination seats, depending on the variant
60:40 split-folding rear seats for enhanced cargo flexibility
Multiple storage compartments, including a large glovebox and center console storage
Despite its compact dimensions, the Raize offers impressive interior space:
Headroom: 1,000mm (front), 950mm (rear)
Legroom: 1,055mm (front), 865mm (rear)
Shoulder room: 1,360mm (front), 1,320mm (rear)
The cargo area boasts a capacity of 369 liters with the rear seats up, expandable to 1,133 liters with the seats folded down.
Technology and Connectivity: Punching Above Its Weight
The 2025 Raize comes packed with features that belie its compact size and price point:
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (on higher trims)
Voice command functionality
Bluetooth connectivity
USB charging ports (front and rear)
6-speaker sound system (on higher trims)
Push-button start (on higher trims)
Keyless entry
Safety: No Compromises
Toyota has equipped the Raize with an impressive array of safety features, many of which are typically found in larger, more expensive vehicles:
Toyota Safety Sense suite (on higher trims), including:
Pre-Collision System (PCS)
Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
Automatic High Beam (AHB)
6 airbags (on higher trims)
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
Rear parking sensors
Backup camera
Driving Dynamics: Urban Agility, Highway Stability
The Raize’s compact dimensions and tight turning radius (5.1 meters) make it a joy to maneuver in tight urban spaces.
However, don’t let its size fool you – the Raize is equally comfortable on highways and winding roads.
The suspension setup – MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam at the rear – strikes a good balance between comfort and handling.
The electric power steering is light at low speeds for easy parking but firms up nicely at higher speeds for increased stability.
Variants and Pricing
The 2025 Toyota Raize is available in several variants to suit different budgets and preferences:
1.2 E MT: Starting at ₱751,000 (PHP)
1.2 E CVT: Starting at ₱841,000 (PHP)
1.2 G CVT: Starting at ₱936,000 (PHP)
1.0 Turbo CVT: Starting at ₱1,063,000 (PHP)
(Prices are ex-showroom and may vary depending on location and dealership)
Market Positioning and Competition
The Toyota Raize enters a fiercely competitive segment, going up against established players like:
Hyundai Venue
Nissan Kicks
Suzuki Swift
MG ZS
Kia Sonet
However, the Raize’s unique selling points – its Toyota badge, impressive feature set, and “Mini Fortuner” aesthetics – give it a distinct edge in the market.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Considerations
In an era of increasing environmental awareness and rising fuel costs, the Raize’s fuel efficiency is a significant selling point:
The 1.2-liter variant boasts a combined fuel efficiency of 21.7 km/l
The 1.0-liter turbo variant isn’t far behind at 20.6 km/l
These figures make the Raize one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class, appealing to both cost-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
Ownership Experience
Toyota’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs extends to the Raize. Owners can expect:
A 3-year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first)
Regular service intervals of 10,000 km or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Access to Toyota’s extensive service network
Toyota Raize : Small in Size, Big on Impact
The 2025 Toyota Raize, affectionately known as the “Mini Fortuner,” is a testament to Toyota’s ability to pack big car features into a compact, efficient package.
It successfully bridges the gap between city-friendly hatchbacks and more robust SUVs, offering the best of both worlds.
For urban dwellers looking for a vehicle that can handle the daily grind of city driving while still being capable of weekend adventures, the Raize presents a compelling proposition.
Its combination of stylish design, efficient powertrains, impressive feature set, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability make it a strong contender in the subcompact crossover segment.
As we move towards a future where efficiency and versatility are increasingly prized, the Toyota Raize stands as a shining example of how compact vehicles can deliver big on performance, features, and value.
It’s not just a mini version of the Fortuner; it’s a fortunate choice for those seeking the perfect blend of style, efficiency, and practicality in a compact package.