2019 Toyota Aqua Review

The Toyota Aqua is one of the most sought-after hybrid compact cars in the New Zealand market due to its great fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordable price. The Aqua also comes with advanced safety and technological features that most cars in its class have. It competes with the Nissan Note, Honda Fit, Mazda Demio, and Mitsubishi Mirage.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand front view.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand front view.

The Toyota Aqua also known as the Toyota Prius C in some markets is a compact hatchback that has been in production for two generations since 2011. The first generation known as the NHP10 was in production from 2011 to 2020. The second generation known as the XP210 has been in production from 2021 to present.

The Aqua is a member of the Prius family and is built on the Toyota B platform which is also used by popular Toyota brands such as the Axio, Vitz, Belta, Fielder, Ractis and Porte.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand front and side view.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand front and side view.

Engines

The 2019 Toyota Aqua comes with one engine the;  1.5L 1NZ-FXE which is connected to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Refer to the Toyota Aqua Buyers Guide for detailed insights on the 1.5L 1NZ-FXE engine.

2019 Toyota Aqua Grades

  1. 2019 Toyota Aqua L- This is the base grade that comes with 15-inch steel wheels, Power windows and mirrors, AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input, Cloth seats and Rear wiper
  2. 2019 Toyota Aqua S- This grade Comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, a Smart key with push-button start, a Multi-function steering wheel, both front and rear power shutters, Cruise control and rear wiper.
  3. 2019 Toyota Aqua G- This variant has all the features of S Grade but adds, LED fog lights, Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Heated front seats, a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and a rearview camera
  4. 2019 Toyota Aqua GS– This grade comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, Fog lights, Heated front seats, Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Dual-zone automatic climate control, and a Touchscreen infotainment system with navigation.

Interior

The 2019 Toyota Aqua offers a comfortable cabin that is designed to maximize space even within its compact size. The 2019 Aqua can comfortably accommodate up to five people.

In the first row, the seats provide adequate support and comfort, with enough headroom and legroom for most occupants. The second-row seats offer a decent amount of space, but taller passengers may find the legroom limited.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand front interior.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand front interior.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand first row seats.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand first row seats.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand rear seats.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand rear seats.

Cargo Space

The 2019 Toyota Aqua offers a sizable cargo space that can accommodate everyday items such as groceries, small luggage, and other personal belongings. If extra space is needed the rear seats can be folded down.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand cargo space

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand cargo space.

Exterior

The 2019 Toyota Aqua features a modern and aerodynamic design that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes. The front end boasts a prominent grille and stylish headlights, which add to the Aqua’s sleek appearance.

The side profile of the Aqua features clean and smooth lines, contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency. The roofline slops gently towards the rear enhancing the Aqua’s sportiness. The rare end  is characterized by its LED taillights and integrated rear spoiler. The 2019 Aqua is available in a range of colors  including white, black, silver, and blue.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand side profile.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand side profile.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand rear view.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand rear view.

Safety Features; SRS Airbags, Antilock Braking System (ABS), ESC, Traction Control System(TC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Pretensioner seatbelts, Child safety seats, Rearview Camera and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Performance

The 2019 Aqua is not a particularly fast car, but it’s adequate for most driving situations. It does not feel top-heavy or prone to rollovers. The Aqua’s suspension is tuned for comfort, so it does not handle as well as some sportier cars. However, it is still capable of cornering at high speeds without feeling unstable.

The 2019 Aqua’s handling is not agile as other cars in  the same class but It is adequate for most drives as it is still easy to maneuver around town and park. The Aqua’s steering is light and responsive, which makes it easy to control.

The braking performance of the 2019 Aqua is adequate, the brake pedal has a solid feel that’s reassuring. The Aqua uses a regenerative braking system, which is a common feature in hybrid vehicles. This system helps to convert kinetic energy generated during braking into electrical energy that can be used to recharge the car’s hybrid battery.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand power button.

2019 Toyota Aqua New Zealand power button.

Reliability

The 2019 Toyota Aqua has a reputation of being a reliable car due to its excellent body quality. The Aqua is made using high quality material and is subjected to rigorous testing and quality control to ensure it is reliable. However some owners have reported issues with the  transmission system, water pump, suspension system and the electrical system.

It’s important to note that have been reported a few owners, it doesn’t mean that every vehicle will experience these issues.

We have done a detailed reliability report on the Toyota Aqua which will help you to mitigate this problems and ensure your Aqua gives you many years of service. We also recommend you to follow the guidelines as provided in the Toyota Aqua Owners Manual and ensure regular mantainace and servicing.

Pros

  • Great fuel efficiency
  • Stylish design
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Slow acceleration
  • Somewhat plain interior
  • Less cargo space

Conclusion

The 2019 Toyota Aqua is a perfect choice for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency, reliability, and environmentally friendly driving. It also suits individuals who navigate urban areas and require a reliable budget friendly  and compact car. The Aqua might not be the most powerful car on the market, but it is still capable saving you for years without any major issue.

2019 Toyota Aqua side profile.

2019 Toyota Aqua side profile.