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2021 Toyota Aqua Review
The Toyota Aqua is arguably the most fuel efficient hatchback in the New Zealand market consuming 34km/l on average. Since its introduction in 2011, the Aqua has grown popularity immensely and is the second most selling model in Toyota. The Aqua is loved by drivers due to its reliability, affordability and advanced safety features. It also has a comfortable and stylish interior. The Toyota Aqua competes locally with the Nissan Note, Honda Fit, Mazda Demio and Mitsubishi Mirage.
2021 Toyota Aqua front and side view NZ.
Introduction
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.
Engines
The 2021 Toyota Aqua comes with one engine the; 1.5L M15A-FXE I3 which is connected to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Refer to the Toyota Aqua Buyers Guide for detailed insights on the 1.5L M15A-FXE I3 engine.
2021 Toyota Aqua Grades
- 2021 Toyota Aqua B- This is the base grade that comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, fog lights, power windows, power mirrors, power door locks, keyless entry, cloth seats, 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, and USB port.
- 2021 Toyota Aqua X- This grade comes with 15-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, Keyless entry, Push-button start, 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, USB port, Cloth seats, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, Blind spot monitoring, and Rear cross traffic alert.
- 2021 Toyota Aqua G- The G grade has the same features as the X trim but adds, Power windows and locks, Keyless entry, Heated front seats, Leather-wrapped steering wheel, Climate control, and Cruise control
- 2021 Toyota Aqua Z- This is the top-of-the-line grade that adds a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, JBL sound system, blind spot monitoring system, and rear cross-traffic alert system.
Interior
The 2021 Toyota Aqua offers seating for up to five passengers. In the first row, the seats are comfortable and provide adequate legroom and headroom for both the front passenger and the driver. In the second row, the seats are best suited for children or smaller adults. Taller passengers may find the rear space slightly cramped.
2021 Toyota Aqua first row seats.
2021 Toyota Aqua rear seats.
Cargo Space
The 2021 Toyota Aqua offers a sizable boot space of 485 liters, which is considered to be good for a compact hatchback. If you need more space, the rear seats can be folded down.
2021 Toyota Aqua trunk.
2021 Toyota Aqua trunk.
Exterior
The 2021 Toyota Aqua boasts a simple, elegant, and aerodynamic exterior design that is appealing to the eye. The front end features a large grille with a honeycomb pattern, flanked by swept-back headlights. The side profile features sculpted character lines along the doors, adding a sense of dynamism. The rear end is simple and understated, with a small trunk lid and integrated taillights.
2021 Toyota Aqua front view.
2021 Toyota Aqua side and 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 2021 Toyota Aqua offers good stability and handling for a car of its size. The suspension system is well-tuned to provide a comfortable ride. The Aqua uses a Coil spring with MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a Torsion beam-type coil spring suspension in the rear. This system absorbs bumps and road imperfections perfectly. The Aqua is also relatively light, which helps it to be agile in corners.
The 2021 Aqua’s uses a Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering wheel that provides a good balance of lightness and feedback. The steering is light and easy to use but still provides enough feedback.
The braking system provides a good balance of stopping power, noise, and feedback. The 2021 Toyota Aqua uses ventilated discs in the front and drums in the rear, and it comes standard with ABS, Brake Assist, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
2021 Toyota Aqua steering wheel.
Reliability
The Toyota Aqua is generally regarded as a reliable car due to its long-lasting design and its few reported problems. Some of the commonly reported issues include; Electrical problems, Engine problems, and Hybrid battery problems.
It is important to note that these problems are not widespread. Most 2021 Toyota Aqua owners will not experience any problems with their cars. It is important to follow the guidelines as provided in the Toyota Aqua Owners Manual and ensure regular maintenance and servicing.
We have compiled a reliability report on the 2021 Aqua and how to mitigate these problems to ensure your car serves you for a long period. Refer to the Toyota Aqua Buyers Guide.
2021 Toyota Aqua engine.
Pros
- Great fuel efficiency
- Affordable
Cons
- Slow acceleration
Conclusion
The 2021 Aqua is a compelling option for buyers looking for a fuel-efficient and reliable compact car. The Aqua’s hybrid powertrain provides exceptional fuel economy and low emissions, making it an environmentally conscientious choice. Furthermore, its small size and nimble handling make it excellent for city driving and maneuvering in tight areas, while still providing a comfortable and practical driving experience for daily commuting.
2021 Toyota Aqua side profile.