Toyota Avensis 2.0 D-4D Saloon

Costs

The efficiency updates for this generation make it excellent value to own, particularly by company car owners, who will pay a lot less to keep this one than the old version. As an engine tuned specifically for economy it responds best to gentle pedal inputs, and will return respectable mpg figures. Driving more quickly requires a disproportionate amount of extra effort from the engine, which spoils the economy.

Space and practicality

Although the Avensis doesn't look as large as rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall's Insignia, there is an impressive amount of interior space for passengers and luggage. A family of four would find it more than big enough for their needs. An average weekly shop might even need some form of restraint to keep goods from falling over and rolling around the boot.

Controls and display

The main instrument cluster will divide opinion; some would say dated and boring, and others would say pleasantly uncomplicated. The central digital screen can't always be read easily at a quick glance, but both the speedometer and rev counter are clear. The large satellite navigation screen is clear and bright, and intuitive to use. It also allows access to media and central control functions.

Comfort

Excellent seats underpin the car's generally comfortable ride. They are large, supportive and relaxing, and provide a very good driving position. The position is even and balanced, which helps to avoid over-stressing key muscles in a driver's back or legs. A large amount of standard kit also helps to enhance the sense of luxurious comfort.

Car security

As standard the Avensis has a Thatcham category one approved alarm and immobiliser system, as well as central locking. High-end models have keyless entry, as does the mid-range TR when fitted with the 2.2-litre diesel engine. Remote central locking is standard on all models, and for models with alloy wheels there are locking wheel nuts.

Car safety

The Avensis is excellent for safety, thanks in part to its airbag count.Optional advanced safety gear includes Pre-Crash Safety, which will brake the car automatically and activate the seatbelt pre-tensioners if a collision looks likely.

Driver appeal

The Avensis has always struggled to create any driver appeal other than the pleasure of driving a smooth, reliable and solidly-built car. It offers the same pleasure in this guise, but even more so because it's quieter. In terms of driving enjoyment, though, the modestly powerful engine line-up, chassis nor the steering offer sufficient feedback to satisfy keen drivers. It's best enjoyed as a motorway cruiser.

Family car appeal

Although it's being aimed openly at company car drivers, the Avensis would make an accomplished family car, where space, practicality, reliability and affordability generally take priority over other factors. Thanks to the quantity of standard equipment the car feels more premium than its price, especially in a mid-range trim level, and it provides all the 'must-have' qualities that make a great family car.

First car appeal

This is a car to perform a set function, and the talents it has don't match the desires of a first-time car buyer. There are always exceptions to the rule, but the Avensis isn't small enough, cheap enough or desirable enough to fit the bill as a first car. For some older people who pass their driving tests in later life, it might be a more attractive option.

Quality and image

Toyota has a very distinct image in Britain, where its products are thought of as faultlessly reliable yet less than exciting. Because of that the brand attracts buyers who prioritise reliability above all else. This generation of Avensis has higher quality interior plastics than the preceding model, and it shows in a solid, tactile and premium-feeling environment.

Accessibility

Four quite short doors combine with a relatively flat roofline and lots of interior space to make it very easy to get in and out of the Avensis, whether it's the front or the back. The boot is capacious and although the aperture shape and size isn't the most convenient on the market, in day-to-day use few people are likely to notice any shortcomings.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

While the basic stereo is adequate, T4 and T-Spirit cars are fitted with an 11-speaker upgraded system, which with a little experimentation with settings sounds very good, if not the match of the branded ones in premium executive saloons. The touch-operated screen's functionality is up with the best, thanks to clear diagrams and instructions.

Colours and trim

Aside from a sophisticated red, the majority of the Avensis' colours are very similar. It's a modest choice under normal circumstances, but the requirements laid upon fleet drivers often include an inoffensive colour choice, of which there are many here. The trim is of pleasingly high quality for the price of the car, and provides a welcoming environment. It's available in light and dark colours.

Parking

Part of the car's standard equipment list on all but the most basic model is a reversing camera, which helps the driver guide the car into a space. Visibility is good all around the car, but the precise distance control that the camera provides is more than welcome. As a four-door, its doors are relatively short and getting in and out is very easy.

Spare wheel

Space saver spare wheel supplied as standard.