Car of the Year 2004 - Family car

Winner
Toyota Avensis 1.8 T3-S 5dr
£15,713

Toyota’s all-new Avensis not only has more character than its predecessor, it’s also better built and has one of the most spacious cabins in the class and a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.

Our favourite Avensis is the 1.8, whose emissions put it in the 18% tax bracket. This means it won’t break the bank for company drivers, while those paying with their own money benefit from a fuel return of 39.2mpg.

This frugality, combined with excellent refinement, makes the Avensis a great long-distance cruiser. The engine is extremely responsive and provides plenty of usable power. While the low-speed ride might be a little firm for some tastes, the payback is good composure at speed, and there’s plenty of grip and feel through the steering wheel.

Driver and passengers remain relaxed thanks to plenty of space and a well thought-out cabin. The driving position is comfortable and easily adjustable, all the controls are logically laid out, and the split rear seats fold totally flat, which aids the large boot’s practicality.

Every Avensis model has anti-lock brakes and twin front and side airbags, as well as curtain airbags and a driver’s knee ’bag, all of which has helped it earn a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests.

The Avensis might not be the cheapest car in the class, nor have the most competitive contract hire rates, but it comes close. Its appeal lies in its varied strengths, including its build quality, top drive, strong performance and outstanding safety.

Highly recommended
Honda Accord 2.2 i-CTDi Sport
£18,700
Mazda 6 1.8 S 5dr
£13,500
Vauxhall Vectra 1.8 LS 5dr
£15,045