The charm of the first generation Wish

Easy-to-use three-row seating and 'Corolla-like' ease of driving.

The first-generation Wish is a compact MPV that achieved a 3-row seating for 6-7 individuals, based on the Corolla platform. The slim body with a total width of about 1,695mm, combined with the 2nd row sliding + underfloor stowable 3rd row seats, allows for flexible adjustment of passenger count and luggage capacity. If you fold down the second row, it's easy to load long objects and outdoor gear, making it versatile enough for anything from everyday shopping to weekend leisure activities. The engine configurations are the **1.8L inline 4 (1ZZ-FE) and 2.0L inline 4 (1AZ-FSE D-4)**, with the early versions having a 4-speed automatic transmission, and the CVT adopted for certain 2.0L grades. The 1.8L offers a good balance between fuel economy and maintenance costs, and the 2.0L provides ample torque for highway cruising and accelerating when fully loaded. Its handling is similar to that of a 'larger compact car', with a natural initial turn of the steering wheel, and a size that's manageable even in narrow lanes and multi-level parking lots with height restrictions. It was a huge hit as a family car in Japan and can be described as a model offering peace of mind to overseas users due to untroubled parts supply and information.

Disadvantages of the first-generation Wish

Take note of the narrowness of the third row, D-4 engine, and safety equipment commensurate with the model year.

On one hand, due to its compact body packing three rows, the third-row seating is inevitably tight, making it primarily suitable for children or short-distance use. Using the third row considerably reduces the luggage space, which might be insufficient for users who regularly need to carry seven passengers plus luggage. Also, the 2.0L 1AZ-FSE (Direct injection D-4) offers both fuel economy and power advantages, but can also develop issues like carbon buildup or injector issues depending on the fuel quality and maintenance status. Choosing a vehicle in good condition and ensuring proper maintenance is crucial. As for safety equipment, the latest preventative safety technologies (like automatic braking or advanced lane assist) are not included, while ABS and airbags are standard on all vehicles. Anti-skid devices and side & curtain airbags differ depending on the grade and model year. When importing and purchasing as a used car, it is recommended to check the accident history, rust, fluid management if equipped with a CVT, and also aging deterioration of suspension bushes and mounts.

The first-generation Wish's rival

Honda Stream (RN1 to RN6 models) and other compact 3-row MPVs

The direct competitor to the first-generation Wish is the **Honda Stream (RN series)** from the same period. Both vehicles are sporty MPVs, fitting into the category of about 1,700mm in total width with three rows of hinged door seating. The Stream stands out with its lower overall height and stiffer suspension, offering a "more wagon-like ride than minivan". On the other hand, the Wish is slightly more family-oriented, focusing on ride comfort and ease of handling. Other rivals may include the Mazda Premacy (2nd generation), which is characterized by its sporty drive despite having sliding doors. However, due to different total widths and door styles (either dual sliding or regular hinge doors), it would be practical to choose depending on parking situation and family composition. While all competing vehicles have high mechanical reliability, the Wish excels in terms of the number of vehicles sold and the number available on the market, making it easier to find used cars that meet desired conditions. For overseas users, considering factors such as ease of parts procurement and information gathering after importation, the Wish is a strong option compared to the Stream or Premacy.

Specifications of the First Generation Wish

Class: Compact MPV (3-row seating) Example Models: ZNE10G (1.8L FF), ZNE14G (1.8L 4WD), ANE10G (2.0L FF 7-seater), ANE11G (2.0L 6-seater) Size (Typical Values): Overall length approximately 4,560mm × Overall width 1,695mm × Overall height approximately 1,590mm Wheelbase: Approximately 2,750mm Seating Capacity: 6 or 7 people (varies by grade) Engine: 1.8L I4 gasoline (1ZZ-FE) 2.0L I4 gasoline direct injection D-4 (1AZ-FSE) Transmission: 4-speed AT, CVT (some 2.0L grades) Drive Type: FF, 4WD Fuel economy (estimate): Approximately 11-15km/L (varies depending on the engine, drive type, and measurement mode)

The appeal of the second-generation Wish

Enhanced daily usability and efficiency with the new generation engine + CVT.

The second-generation Wish is a model that underwent a full model change in 2009, refreshing its styling and powertrain. The engines were switched to a 1.8L straight-four (2ZR-FAE) and a 2.0L straight-four (3ZR-FAE), both adopting the new-generation Valvematic unit. The transmission is exclusively CVT, achieving smooth acceleration in city driving and good practical fuel efficiency. The lineup includes FWD and full-time 4WD (ZGE25 series), offering reliable performance even in snow-covered regions. While the interior layout follows that of the first generation, the second row sliding range and seat shape have been redesigned for enhanced comfort. Depending on the grade, you can choose between six-seater (captain seats) and seven-seater models. The interior design has become more modern, and the equipment widely covers main functions at the time, including auto air conditioning, smart entry, and HDD/SD navigation. The front mask and tail lamp designs were changed in the early and late stages, adding the fun of choosing the face you prefer in the used car market.

Disadvantages of the Second-Generation Wish

The constraints of the third row remain. Check for the CVT and equipment for the model year.

Even in its second generation, the basic package of cramming three rows into a compact body remains unchanged, making the third row primarily suitable for "short distances or children". When using the third seat, the cargo area becomes smaller, just like in the first generation, so if you're aiming for "always carrying 7 people + luggage", taller minivans like Noah/Voxy are more suitable. Moreover, due to the complete transition to a CVT powertrain, it is more important to manage fluid and avoid excessive heat loads compared to an AT. If oil changes have not been performed properly, it is important to check whether there are any signs of judder or slippage. There are a few updates to safety and driving support in the latter part of the sales period, but features are limited compared to the latest generation of safety packages, including comprehensive automatic braking and lane keeping. Safety equipment such as S-VSC (skid prevention device), side & curtain shield airbags, and active headrests are standard on all cars. Comfort features like cruise control vary by grade, so it is recommended to check each individual unit.

Rivals of the second-generation Wish

Honda Stream (RN6-9) / Mazda Premacy (3rd Generation) and so on.

The market position of the second-generation Wish overlaps with that of compact MPVs like the later Honda Stream (RN6-9) and the third-generation Mazda Premacy, all in the class of about 1,700mm wide and three-row seating. The Stream, with its low center of gravity, offers a sporty ride with a NATURALLY ASPIRATED engine+5AT/CVT combination. The Premacy has sliding doors and reliable handling, making it an easy package for both family and leisure. The Wish, on the other hand, emphasizes "passenger car-like handling plus Toyota-like ease of use". It's a model that, including its mechanical reliability and abundance of used units, could be regarded as the safest choice. Considering the ease of parts procurement and the familiarity for service shops, the second-generation Wish is an extremely easy-to-handle vehicle, even when compared to the Stream/Premacy, for foreign users considering parallel import.

Specifications of the Second Generation Wish

Class: Compact MPV (3-row seating) Example Models: ZGE20G/ZGE20W (1.8L FF), ZGE25G/ZGE25W (1.8L 4WD), ZGE21G (2.0L FF 7-seater), ZGE22W (2.0L FF 6-seater) Size (Approximate): Length about 4,590–4,640mm x Width 1,695mm x Height about 1,590mm Wheelbase: Approximately 2,750mm Seating Capacity: 6 or 7 (with captain seat options) Engine: 1.8L I4 Gasoline (2ZR-FAE) 2.0L I4 Gasoline (3ZR-FAE) Transmission: CVT (All Models) Drive System: FF, Full-time 4WD (1.8L series) Fuel Economy (Approximate): About 13-16km/L (varies by engine, drive system, and model year)