Highlights

Recently imported from Japan by owner
Distinctive yet utterly practical
Impressive sound system

The Appeal

Toyota, the master of the niche, have produced thousands of different models over the years but only a fraction of those are sent to European Toyota dealers. Luckily, ever since the personal import market took off in the 90s, British roads have been livened by a dazzling array of imaginative vehicles that were never officially sold here.

Categorised as a Mini MPV, the Toyota BB was originally released in 2000 as a practical and comfortable car catering to a youth-oriented market. Based on the first-gen Yaris, it uses the same award-winning 2NZ-FE 1.3-litre engine and comes with the expected virtues that make Toyota such a dependable brand.

This 2004 SX spec version slots somewhere in the middle of the BB range, fitted with an FWD 1.3-litre 16V VVTi engine and a column-mounted 4-speed automatic gearbox. This particular car was imported with 15” aftermarket alloys, front and rear spoilers, and side glass weather deflectors.

The BB has attracted a small but loyal following in the UK by those who appreciate the impressive interior space and head-turning styling. Imported directly via Goonet only last year, the car is fully legal for use on UK roads with all duties and taxes confirmed by the DVLA. It has an MOT to August 2023 and the added bonus of recently fitted multimedia player.

The History and Paperwork

First registered in Japan in June 2004
Imported directly by the owner in 2022
All import duty and VAT fees paid
V5c present
Owners handbook and two keys
MOT to August 2023
Used on a regular basis
Lack of use due to a recently acquired BB forces sale
Currently owned by an appreciator of quirky JDM cars!

The Interior

Well-presented interior with an enhanced sound system
Fabric seats in excellent condition
All carpets and original mats are clean
The dashboard is in good shape, with some scuffs noted on the lower plastics
Dials and switches are in good condition and all are said to function
No scratches to the leather steering wheel or gear selector
Decent door cards and trim
Headlining intact with minor marks noted at the rear
Impressive Pioneer DAB installation
Headrest mounted smartphone compatible touch screen multimedia players
SX spec includes Air Con, Power Steering and Power Windows

The Exterior

Solid structure with no discernible damage on the floor pan, inner wings or engine bay
Panel and gaps are all of a very good standard
Doors open and close without obstruction
We were unable to detect any rust on the body
Minor parking graze on the offside rear door - could be easily reminded by a specialist
The paint finish is decent with even coverage with a healthy shine
A slight matting on a section of the offside front door
Bodywork relatively free of road wear
A small crack and repair were noted on the rear bumper
Alloys may need a refurb
Minor signs of age were noted on the low profile tyre side walls but all were within the legal tread limits
All of the glass is intact with healthy-looking seals
Side window weather deflectors are all free from damage
Lights and lenses in good shape
Trim decent with a minor scuff on the rear lower skirt

The Mechanics

DOHC 1298cc 4-cylinder engine starts and runs well with no issues at all
Gears selected easily
The car is said to drive well with no untoward noises from the suspension
The engine presents well with no signs of leaks
No outstanding issues with the brakes or steering were reported by the owner
Has been completely dependable in use
Minor surface corrosion was noted on the exhaust pipe

Summary

The Toyota BB may be an unknown quantity to some, but the reputation that goes before the brand is almost unmatched in terms of dependability. Furthermore, this well-sized MPV has an amazing sound system, a tonne of functionality, and a trendy edge. Whether you decide to embrace the JDM sub-culture or simply utilise it as a dependable little hack, either way, you have something unique that also ticks the sensible boxes.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.