Toyota Avensis 2.0 D-4D Tourer

Costs

Lower running costs come courtesy of the new diesel engine and make it excellent value to own. As an engine tuned specifically for economy it responds best to gentle pedal inputs, and if used with all due restraint it will return respectable mpg figures. Driving more quickly requires a disproportionate amount of extra effort from the engine, which spoils the economy. Residual values should be good, especially for cars equipped with the new engine.

Space and practicality

The Avensis estate isn't as wide as rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall's Insignia, but there is still 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 netting or dividers 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 and, in the case of the dials, easy to read. The central digital screen can't always be read easily at a glance, but both the speedometer and rev counter are clear. The large satellite navigation screen is clear, 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, although the estate generates more road noise because of the larger, more open and boxier dimensions at the rear.

Car security

Just like the saloon version the Avensis estate has a Thatcham category one approved alarm and immobiliser system as standard, as well as deadlocking. 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

As might be expected for a modern car of its size, the Avensis estate scores very highly for safety thanks in part to its impressive 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 inevitable.

Driver appeal

Some would argue that estate cars are almost never meant to prioritise driving pleasure, and the Avensis has always struggled to create any driver appeal other than in being smooth, reliable and solidly built. It still offers the same pleasure, but even more so because it's quieter. In terms of driving enjoyment, though, neither 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

While the saloon version is aimed at the company car market, the estate 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

As a Japanese diesel estate this is a car to perform a set function for a set sort of person, and the talents it has don't match the wishes 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's image has taken knocks in recent years, but has recovered much of the reputation for reliability that it had previously. Because of that the brand attracts buyers who prioritise fuss-free dependability 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 the Avensis estate very easy to get in and out of, whether it's the front or the back. The boot is capacious and well shaped, with the high roof offering plenty of potential for stacking or piling items if needs be. There's no load lip so sliding heavy items up to or back from the edge of the boot is easier.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

As standard the stereo on mid-range models works via the touch-operated satellite navigation screen and can be awkward to use while on the move. At a standstill however, the touch-operated screen's functionality is up with the best thanks to clear diagrams and instructions. A full range of tonal adjustments is available to give the user as much freedom as possible. Upgraded 11-speaker systems are available and fitted to T4 and T-Spirit models as standard.

Colours and trim

Aside from a sophisticated red, the majority of the Avensis' colours are very similar. It's a modest choice with little real variation, which will suit buyers aiming to keep their car as low-key as possible but those whose car is their pride and joy will struggle to find something special enough. The interior trim is pleasingly high quality for the price of the car, and provides a welcoming environment in the light and dark colour options.

Parking

Although the estate can feel like a lot more car to have to park, part of the car's standard equipment list on all but the most basic model is a reversing camera that helps the driver guide the car into a space. Visibility is good all around the car, but the precise visual guide that the camera provides is more than welcome. Its doors are relatively short which means passengers may need to tuck their legs in a little to get out, but the doors open wider in tight spaces.

Spare wheel

Space saver spare wheel supplied as standard.