USED Toyota Avensis Hatchback (03 - 09)

My car

I had the car from new through my company. I must say that it had been an ok car in the main, except it did not live upto the legendary Toyota reliablity.

Problems I've had are the headlight mountings melted. Gearbox exploded on Motorway at 59k miles. Wheel bearings needed replacement at 70k miles and at 96k miles the thrust bearing was going and engine seals were leaking.

Other niggling problems were that the pads and disks rusted very quickly in comparison to other cars so needed constant replacement, the handbrake always needed tensioning after releatively short periods and changing bulbs in headlight assembly practically impossible, dealer prefers to take bumper off and headlight unit to replace an indicator bulb!

Other minor issues I have with the car are that the cup holder was above all the electrical equipment, one sudden stop and radio and climate controls were covered in coffee not really well thought out. Road and wind noise on motorway journeys and the 1800cc engine was too underpowered.

Positives: The ride and handling for a family car was good, its frugal on petrol at motorway speeds, interior was well put together nothing rattled/squeeked or fell off even after four years and looked good too, the cabin and boot were spacious, excellent equipment and safety for trim level.

I'm not sure I would consider another one as I have been put off with the problems I have had.

My car

A 54 reg bought 2 years old with 28 000 miles from toyota, now done nearley 50 000 miles and not a thing has gone wrong and we live in the country up a rough track which tests the suspension every day,and still not a rattle from the interior Its not a sports car but the engine is good enough for everyday use considering you just get held up by other traffic on the road anyway,and according to the fuel computer we nearly allways get over 40mpg sometimes 44mpg on a long run The steering is light , a bit too light for keener drivers, but the car grips well on the corners and the brakes are really good for emergency stops. The boot is big enough to hold the children's stuff and my wife's district nurse equipment together so saves having to change things around as the car's job changes from family runabout to nursemobile The seats are firm but comfortable enough and plenty of adjustments are available so even 6 foot 3 me has plenty of room, but the black seats do mark and stain too easiley.Plenty of room in the back for passengers as well. Looking forwards to the next 50000 miles.

My car

After driving the toyota for nearly three years from new i have had very little problems with the exception of a new steering rack which was replaced under warranty.

After 53000 miles the only downfall is the 10000 mile service intervals which is costly,but otherwise its a good family car with loads of space.

My car

I bought this car when it was approx 7 months old with 12,000 miles on the clock and I have now had it for 15 months.

The car is comfortable on long trips with lots of space for passengers and luggage.

The routine 20,000 mile service was straightforward and is the only time that the car has been back to the dealer. Nothing has broken, fallen off or otherwise caused me any concern.

According to the on-screen display my average petrol consumption is above 39 mpg.

The sat nav is not easy to use but with patience works well.