Toyota Corolla Verso has won the award for Best Small MPV in the 2007 Fleet World Honours. The trophy was presented at a special ceremony held at the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall on Thursday 17th May.

The Fleet World Honours are presented annually to those motor manufacturers and service companies who have, in the opinion of the judges, achieved the highest possible level of excellence in their sector. The judging panel is chaired by industry professional, George Emmerson, who has managed fleets at IBM, NHBC and Black Horse Agencies. Members of the judging panel include Ken Rogers, John Kendall, Natalie Wallis and Ross Durkin from Fleet World’s editorial team, Alan Cole of Glass’s Guide and fleet manager Jackie Pomfrett. Residual value, maintenance cost and reliability data is also provided by ALD Automotive, Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions and ING Car Lease.

Commenting on the award, Chairman of Judges George Emmerson said: ‘Toyota continues to grow as a fleet brand, with a reputation built on quality and reliability – two essential ingredients for any fleet car. Corolla Verso adds practicality and versatility to the list and with these credentials, it’s not hard to see why the car is so popular among user-choosers.’

Fleet World editor Ken Rogers commented: ‘This segment of the market continues to grow but Toyota’s Corolla Verso’s clever packaging and interior versatility continues to win customers in the showrooms. Compact on the outside, Verso is accommodating on the inside – and quality is excellent. The version with the 2.2 D-4D diesel has most fleet appeal.’

Alan Cole of Glass’s Guide added: ‘Due to its versatility and practicality demand for used Corolla Verso is very strong indeed with second-hand examples extremely difficult to find.  Add to this the brand’s growing image for reliability and customer service and the sum equals very firm residual values. With residuals being paramount to overall whole-life operating costs Verso is virtually unbeatable in this segment.’

Tim Copland, General Manager Toyota Fleet said, ‘We are delighted to be receiving this award and with some minor specification changes due shortly will keep Verso highly competitive in this segment.’