Toyota WiLL

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The Toyota WiLL Vi is a compact car, with styling reminiscent of the Renault C4V.

It's bigger brother, the Toyota WiLL VS was years ahead of its rivals in car design when it was first introduced in 2001.

In the years to follow, several other vehicles have taken styling cues from the WiLL VS, most notably the 2004 Vauxhall Astra and the Renault Megane. Inspiration for the design of the WiLL VS was said to have been derived from the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighter. Inspite of its success in the Japanese market where the WiLL VS had a cult following, the model was never released overseas. Production of the WiLL VS was stopped circa 2004 and a replacement model was never announced, much to the disappointment of its fans. Nevertheless, some would argue that there was no need to replace the WiLL VS for at least another decade given its futuristic design that some of the newer cars were only beginning to adopt. This would include trend-setting features such as the rakish body shape, aerodynamic angles, projector-style headlamp cluster (regarded as revolutionary in 2001), illuminated speedometer and clear LED tail lights.

The WiLL VS came in 3 levels of trim. The top of the range model came with alloy wheels, fog-lamps, body kit and tiptronic gearshift. All models were only available in automatic transmission, powered by Toyota's 1800cc VVT-I engine.

The WiLL VS will probably be remembered as one of the few concept vehicles that went into production, albeit only in small numbers. Its limited production can be viewed as a blessing, preserving its mystique and the special place it has in the hearts of the privileged few drivers who've had the pleasure of cruising in this sexy beast.