This article compares the Toyota Ractis and the Toyota IST, examining key aspects such as fuel consumption, interior and exterior features, and pricing. The Toyota Ractis, named from a combination of “Run,” “Activity,” and “Space,” is a five-door, five-seat mini MPV, based on the Toyota Vitz/Yaris. It has been in production since 2005 and currently has two generations. On the other hand, the Toyota IST is a five-door, five-seat subcompact hatchback, produced since 2002, with two generations as well.
Best Suited for
Toyota Ractis
The Toyota Ractis is a versatile vehicle, offering generous interior space with flexible seating arrangements. Designed to transport passengers comfortably, it provides ample room for families or groups, along with extra cargo space. Its compact size ensures that, while it offers the practicality of a minivan, it’s still easy to maneuver and park in urban settings.
Toyota IST
The Toyota IST is a compact and versatile car, ideal for city driving and daily commuting. Its compact nature makes it suitable for urban environments, where maneuverability and parking can be challenging. The IST is also highly fuel-efficient, helping drivers to save on fuel costs, and it comes at a reasonable price, making it a budget-friendly option. With its practical design and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the IST offers a dependable solution for those seeking an efficient and affordable vehicle.
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Toyota Ractis vs Toyota IST Side-by-Side Comparison
(*Prices are reflective of average BE FORWARD pricings as of Janurary 2025.)
Toyota Ractis Toyota IST
Generations 2 2
Engine 1.3L and 1.5L I4 petrol, and 1.4L turbocharger I4 diesel (Europe) 1.3L, 1.5L, and 1.8L I4 petrol, and 1.4L turbocharger I4 diesel (Europe)
Transmission 4-speed auto, 6-speed manual (Europe), and CVT 4-speed auto, 6-speed manual (Europe), and CVT
Drivetrain FWD and AWD FWD and 4WD
Fuel Consumption 6,06 L/100km 6,06 L/100km
6,25 L/100km
Cargo Space 380 liters with all seats up 270 - 300 liters with all seats up
Dimensions Length - 3995, Width - 1695, and Height - 1705 (mm) Length - 3855 (3930), Width - 1695 (1725), and Height - 1535 (1540) (mm)
Toyota Ractis Prices
| Toyota Ractis 2007 | US $ 2,360 – US $ 3,530 |
| Toyota Ractis 2009 | US $ 2,490 – US $ 3,800 |
| Toyota Ractis 2014 | US $ 2,270 – US $ 10,200 |
Toyota IST Prices
| Toyota IST 2007 | US $ 4,000 – US $ 4,450 |
| Toyota IST 2008 | US $ 1,420 – US $ 4,940 |
| Toyota IST 2010 | US $ 3,860 – US $ 3,990 |
Fuel Consumption & Engine
Toyota Ractis
The Toyota Ractis’s fuel consumption varies based on the engine type and driving conditions. It is available with three engine options: a 1.3-liter (1298cc) 2SZ-FE I4 petrol, the 1.5-liter (1497cc) 1NZ-FE I4 petrol, and a 1.4-liter (1364cc) 1ND-TV I4 turbocharged diesel, which is exclusively available in Europe.
The average fuel consumption for each engine is as follows:
- 16 km/L for the 2SZ-FE (1298cc) I4 petrol
- 14 km/L for the 1NZ-FE (1497cc) I4 petrol
- 20 km/L for the 1ND-TV (1364cc) I4 turbocharged diesel.
Toyota IST
The fuel consumption of the Toyota IST varies depending on the engine type and driving conditions. It offers five engine options: the 1.3-liter 2NZ-FE (1298cc) I4 petrol, the 1.3-liter 1NR-FE (1297cc) I4 petrol (available in Europe), the 1.5-liter 1NZ-FE (1497cc) I4 petrol, the 1.8-liter 2ZR-FE (1798cc) I4 petrol, and the 1.4-liter 1ND-TV (1364cc) I4 turbocharged diesel, which is exclusively offered in Europe.
The average fuel consumption for each engine is as follows:
- 18 km/L for the 2NZ-FE (1298cc) I4 petrol
- 20 km/L for the 1NR-FE (1297cc) I4 petrol
- 16 km/L for the 1NZ-FE (1497cc) I4 petrol
- 15 km/L for the 2ZR-FE (1798cc) I4 petrol
- 22 km/L for the 1ND-TV (1364cc) I4 turbocharged diesel
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Exterior
Toyota Ractis
The exterior features of the Ractis include:
- Compact Dimensions: A small footprint that makes it easy to maneuver and park, especially in urban areas.
- Sleek Front Design: A facial featuring a smooth grille with chrome accents, flanked by stylish headlights.
- Functional Rear Design: A tall, boxy rear that maximizes interior space, with large rear windows for improved visibility.
- Wide Wheel Arches: Flared wheel arches exude a more robust look.
- Sliding Doors (on some models): Sliding rear doors, make it easier to ingress and egress in tight parking spaces.
Toyota IST
The exterior features of the IST include:
- A simple and minimalist design with clean, rounded edges and a slightly boxy silhouette.
- A facial featuring a compact grille with sleek headlights gives it a friendly and approachable face.
- A rear end with a short overhang and a practical tailgate.
- A small footprint, measuring about 3.7 meters in length and 1.7 meters in width, for ease of maneuvering in tight spaces
- The solid build quality makes it durable and reliable.
Interior
Toyota Ractis
The interior features of the Ractis include:
- Well-cushioned, comfortable, and supportive seats with cloth upholstery
- An adjustable driver’s seat and a tilt telescopic steering wheel.
- Cubby storage includes cup holders, door pockets, jacket seat pockets, and a glovebox, making it easy to store small items.
- A high seating position, large windows, and narrow pillars provide good outward visibility and create an open,airy feel.
- A relatively quiet ride compared to its competitors.
- A basic stereo with a touchscreen display and navigation is available.
- A 380-liter boot that can be extended by folding flat the rear seats.
Toyota IST
The interior features of the IST include:
- Ergonomic, supportive, and well-padded seats
- An uncluttered dashboard with straightforward controls for media and climate.
- A basic radio with a CD player is standard, while some trims might feature a touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports
- A 300-liter boot that can be extended by folding down the rear seats
- Cubby storage includes a glovebox, center tray, door pockets, cup holders, and jacket seat pockets.
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FAQ
Which is better IST or Ractis?
The Ractis offers more space and comfort, but the IST is the better choice if you want a sporty, efficient ride.
Which is the best Toyota Ractis model?
The second-generation XP120 is the best Ractis model as it is more modern and efficient with improvements to the flaws of the earlier generation.
What are the disadvantages of Toyota IST?
The biggest drawbacks of the Toyota IST are limited space and low ground clearance.
Writer’s Perspective
Toyota excels at what they do best—building cars. However, at times, it may seem like they’re overextending themselves by producing an overwhelming number of models, some of which appear to compete for the same customer base within the same category with very similar features. But more often than not, this assumption is mistaken. A closer look reveals that, despite apparent similarities, each model has unique qualities that cater to specific needs. This article delves into a comparison of two compact Toyota offerings, the Ractis and the IST. By the end of this review, it becomes clear that, while these cars may appear to serve the same purpose, they each offer distinct functionalities that are important to potential buyers.
Final Verdict
The Toyota Ractis and IST are both compact models designed for different needs. The Ractis offers more space and comfort, making it ideal for those needing practicality, especially in urban areas or for family trips. In contrast, the IST is a sportier, more compact hatchback with nimble handling, better maneuverability, and higher fuel efficiency. It’s suited for those who prioritize compactness and youthful styling. If you value space and comfort, go for the Ractis; if you want a sporty, efficient ride, the IST is the better choice.
I am a car enthusiast and experienced freelance car writer with over 5 years in automotive journalism. Recognized for delivering engaging and informative content across diverse websites and blogs, prominently featured on platforms like BE FORWARD. A passion for cars, coupled with a proven track record of insightful articles, showcasing a deep understanding of the industry.
With over 5 years of writing expertise in the automotive domain, I specialize in comprehensive coverage of car-related topics. My portfolio spans engaging reviews, up-to-date news, and in-depth features, showcasing a versatile understanding of the automotive landscape. This experience reflects my commitment to delivering insightful content that captivates readers across a broad spectrum of car enthusiasts and general audiences.
My favorite car is the Range Rover Sport for its luxurious design, powerful performance, and unparalleled comfort on and off-road.
