Toyota intends to make the Verso a sub-brand with models launched across the range, according to John Howett, Toyota Europe vice president sales and marketing.

The Avensis Verso goes on sale next month costing £17,795 for the GS and £19,795 for the GLS. The car will be competing against full size MPVs like Ford Galaxy, although it replaces the compact Picnic in the line-up.

Toyota launched the Yaris Verso last year and is planning more Verso models. An all-new Corolla is being unveiled in September with a Verso version due next year.

The seven-seater Avensis Verso is expected to sell 2,000 units in its first full year. It is based on the platform of the all-new Avensis, due in 2003, rather than the existing model.