Toyota IST | (2007 -2016) 2nd gen, clever inexpensive compact crossover | Car review |

This is the second-generation Toyota IST produced from 2007 to 2016, also known in global markets as the Urban Cruiser and Scion xD. Let's see what can convince us to choose this clever little crossover. Its successor is the Yaris Cross, also reviewed extensively on our channel. The car we'll be analysing in depth today is the entry-level Japan-spec 150X trim. IST and its rebadged siblings during its production run did not receive any significant facelifts. Within Toyota's line-up, it is most closely related to the 2nd gen Toyota Vitz / Yaris, sharing many components. Similar Toyota IST are available now at BEFORWARD.JP The 2nd generation 2007 - 2016 model starts from around 3,500 USD. (PRICE AND STOCK MAY 2026) Stock updates daily, so if you're considering one, check the latest prices and availability here: 👉https://go.beforward.jp/Toyota_IST2 Video Chapters: 00:00 Toyota IST (Intro) 00:12 Model Overview & key specs 02:10 Driving Impressions & safety features 03:24 Interior & practicality 05:29 Price & Stock at BE FORWARD 05:54 ENGINE options & FUEL Efficiency 07:02 Common issues & reliability 07:40 BE FORWARD.JP Quality - listings standards 07:59 Maintenance Costs & Ownership 08:10 Autoparts, used and new via BEFORWARD AUTOPARTS global delivery service 08:33 How to Buy a car at BEFORWARD.JP What is the driving experience like in the IST? User feedback is generally positive; the car is well-rated for its size and class. In terms of visibility, the higher driving position, good forward visibility and large rear-view mirrors are widely praised. However, it is less impressive in terms of rearward visibility, as the large C-pillar obscures the view and the rear window is fairly small. Nevertheless, the reversing camera compensates for these drawbacks. When it comes to ride comfort, the car is favourably rated at 4.5 out of 5. It is perceived as quite stiff and slightly hard, offering good handling in corners. The standard wheel size for this version is 16 inches. The IST is reasonably well noise-damped for a lower-end Toyota. Of course, noise does come from the poorly soundproofed doors and raindrops on the roof are clearly audible, but driving at speeds of up to 90 km/h is quite acceptable for a city car of it's era. Occasional long-distance travel at speeds of up to 110 km/h should not be a problem. In terms of safety, the VSC, EBD and ABS packages, as well as a full set of airbags, are all standard. However, it lacks the advanced radar systems and cameras found in its successor, the Yaris Cross. Raum is fairly nimble in city traffic, achieving a turning radius of 4.9 metres for both front-wheel and 4WD models. Shop at BE FORWARD Now: Cars on Sale: https://go.beforward.jp/Cars-On-Sale Auto Parts: https://go.beforward.jp/AutoParts-On-Sale Subscribe for more car reviews and updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BEFORWARD_Official?sub_confirmation=1 #toyotaist #toyotaurbancruiser #crossover

Added 29 Jun 2026