Class: Large Family Car
Rivals: Opel Vectra/Insignia, Ford Mondeo, VW Passat, Mazda 6
Variants: Saloon, Hatchback, Estate
Engines: Petrol, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0
Diesel, 2.0, 2.2
Gearbox: 5 speed manual, 6speed manual, 5 speed Automatic
Awards: Semperit Irish Car of the Year 2004
First introduced in 1997 as a replacement to the Carina E, the Avensis proved itself by continuing on Toyota's reputation for reliability! Smooth and refined on country roads as well as long journeys, and a decent list of "as standard" extras, the Avensis proved to be a big seller, but offered very little in terms of excitement!
The cabin is comfortable and plenty of space. The handling is as with any Japanese car, neutral, and with a fairly soft suspension is very comfortable on the most arduous of roads.
The early model 2.0td engines suffered largely from turbo lag, and up to the new model introduction in 2003, failure of the dual mass flywheel was common place.
The new model launched in 2004 came with updated engines including Toyota's Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and updated diesels lead to a much improved and involved drive.
The newer model had a few set backs with suspensions and steering problems but nothing too serious.
The 2004- present Avensis scored a 5 star rating from the Euro Ncap Crash Tests.
We recommend you go for the 2.0 D4D Avensis. Its €614 to tax up to 2008 and €156 after. It will return on average 50mpg mixed driving.
The new 2010 model is a french designed car and as well as all the previous models, is built in Derbyshire in the Uk.
For a nice clean 05/06 avensis you can pay up to €5000, early models can be picked up for next to nothing and the new Model can go for up to €25,000 for an ex demo.
Gary
