For The Avensis is effortless to drive and the interior is comfy and easy to use. Most models are well equipped and benefit from comparatively low ownership costs.
Against The Avensis looks bland, inside and out. It’s not as much fun to drive as a Mondeo and the pricier models aren’t significantly better than the cheap ones.
The Avensis isn’t a car that you’ll ever lust after, but it’s hard to fault in any area and is incredibly easy to live with. Choose the right model and it’s a great all-rounder.
The Toyota Avensis won’t be your idea of a dream car, but most versions are a great real-world proposition. Choose the right model and you’ll have a car that’s practical, easy to live with, comfortable and cheap to own.
You’re best off sticking with either the 1.8 petrol or the 2.0-litre diesel engines, as the 2.0-litre petrol and 148bhp 2.2-litre diesel aren’t much quicker and cost more to buy and run.
TR trim is the one to go for, because it provides air-conditioning, Bluetooth, daytime running lights, a leather covered steering wheel and a touch-screen multimedia interface, called 'Touch & Go'. It’s pretty simple to use, and gives access to the audio and Bluetooth systems, as well as sat-nav with a Google local search function.
So, unless you simply must have leather trim and electric seats we’d recommend TR over the pricier T4 and T Spirit trims.
I purchased this car from new and so far am very…
I have owned owned this car for 3 months now. It…
I bought this car as I needed a reliable practical…