Small engine. Big attitude. The Raize is proof that you do not need a huge car to make a huge impression.

Look at that face. A bold diamond mesh grille sits under a sharp black bar, LED headlights slice back into the bodywork with a glowing signature strip, and the daytime running lights below them give it a confident, slightly cheeky stare. The pearl white paint has a depth that shifts in the sunlight, and the two tone alloy wheels with their dark, machined spokes make it look like it belongs on a much more expensive car. At the rear, a gloss black band carries the Toyota emblem across the tailgate, flanked by chunky tail lights and sensors tucked neatly into the bumper. It is compact enough to slip into any gap in the city and tough enough looking to make the bigger SUVs pay attention.

Now the engine, because this is where the Raize gets properly interesting. Under the bonnet sits a 1000cc turbo, and do not let the number fool you. The turbocharger gives it a lively, eager pull that makes joining a fast road feel easy, while the small capacity keeps fuel consumption wonderfully low. It is the kind of car that makes you smile at the pump and again at the traffic lights. Pop the bonnet and the engine bay is clean and well kept, the sort of tidy you only see on a car that has been looked after.

The cabin is where the Z Package earns its letter. Black seats with bold red piping give it a sporty, playful character, and the chunky leather wrapped steering wheel carries all your controls right at your fingertips, including cruise control and a driver display that keeps you informed. The touchscreen sits high on the dash with a reverse camera showing guidelines, parking sensors help you squeeze into tight spots, and the automatic gearbox keeps city driving relaxed and effortless. At the back, the boot is surprisingly generous, with a split folding rear seat that opens up even more room for shopping, luggage, or whatever your weekend throws at you. A dashcam is fitted too, so you are covered from the very first drive.

This is the perfect car for the first time buyer who wants something special, the young professional who wants style without the fuel bill, or the family that needs a second car with real personality. It looks like an SUV, drives like a city hero, and costs far less to run than anything its size has a right to.

Raizes in this clean condition are some of the hottest small SUVs on the market right now, and they disappear quickly. Come and see it, sit in that red trimmed cabin, and take it for a spin. Fair warning, you may start planning road trips before you even get back.