Used Toyota Avensis Hatchback 1997 - 2004 review
A reliable family car, but not the most inspiring
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- (2006 - 10)
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What's the used Toyota Avensis like?
Ownership cost
Our recommendations
Reliability
Stuart Milne
Updated: 1 January 2006
How we test cars
What's the used Toyota Avensis like?
The Avensis needed to be both rep-mobile and family car, and it managed to do both well, and very reliably. Rear legroom is up with the best in the class, but particularly tall passengers might have a problem with a lack of headroom thanks to the sloping roofline in the back. However, the large, well-shaped boot is a match for the Ford Mondeo's and the cargo space can be easily extended, thanks to a split-folding seat.
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Overview
A reliable family car, but not the most inspiring
Pros
- Plenty of space, masses of kit and strong reliability
Cons
- Restless ride
- The interior is drab and dull
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In partnership with
Toyota Avensis
2.0 TD Colour Collection 5dr
£1,195
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£1,199
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£1,495
Toyota Avensis
2.2 D-4D T4 5dr
£1,500
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-X 5dr
£1,695
Toyota Avensis
2.0 VVT-i T4 5dr
£1,795
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£1,995
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i TR 5dr
£2,450
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£2,490
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The downside is that there's nothing very attractive - visually at least - about the cabin and the steering wheel only adjusts for rake. But, at least everything is easy to use, with big-button controls, clear dials and good oddment stowage.
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Likewise, the driving experience doesn't exactly set the world on fire. Most engines are noisy while the gearshift is rubbery and there's a lot of wind and road noise. The Avensis cruises well on a motorway, but on other roads it's unsettled, while the steering is vague and over-light.
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Tips & Advice
How to test drive a car
There’s no substitute for a test drive in a new car. Take it on a variety of roads and surfaces to ensure it measures up.
Will the car fit your needs?
As part of the test drive, fill the car with regularly-carried luggage, and make sure the family can get comfy before you buy
Ownership cost
How much does cost to run a Toyota Avensis?
Long major service intervals will help keep the bills down and even when your Avensis does go in for some TLC, it won't cost as much as many cars in the class to repair. Parts are cheap and readily available.
Insurance costs are among the best in the class, too. Most models sit between groups 7 and 9, and even the range-topping 2.0-litre petrol SR model sits in group 10. Fuel bills won't cost you a fortune either. The 1.8-litre petrol will return between 36-38mpg, which is about average for the class. There are so many used examples around, both privately and in the trade, you should be able to get a cracking deal. So if you don't like the look of one, wait for a nicer car to come along.
Tips & Advice
Never miss a motoring date
Remembering to arrange insurance, book a service or buy breakdown cover can be a pain. Fortunately, My What Car? is here to help
Our recommendations
Which used Toyota Avensis should I buy?
The Avensis was launched in the UK in 1997 with three bodystyles, this five-door hatchback (our favourite) joined by a four-door saloon and a five-door estate.
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At first, there was a choice of four engines - a 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel. But in 2000 the diesel was replaced by a 2.0-litre D-4D engine, the 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol engines were replaced by new VVT-i units, the 2.0-litre got a power hike, all models were face-lifted and prices were lowered. Our favourite blend of price, performance and economy comes from the flexible 1.8 petrol.
Trim levels start with S, which has electric front windows, remote locking and twin airbags. GS adds a sunroof and air-con, GLS gets a CD player and four electric windows, while CDX has alloy wheels and a leather interior. Most versions have standard sat-nav from 2000 on. SR trim is available on only the 2.0-litre petrol or diesel engines brings alloys, a bodykit and sports interior.
Tips & Advice
Avoid ULEZ and clean-air zone fines
If you regularly drive into a clean air zone, you’ll want to ensure your next car is compliant to avoid costly fines
How reliable is the Toyota Avensis ?
Toyota Avensis
Read reliability
Used cars available now
In partnership with
Toyota Avensis
2.0 TD Colour Collection 5dr
£1,195
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£1,199
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£1,495
Toyota Avensis
2.2 D-4D T4 5dr
£1,500
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-X 5dr
£1,695
Toyota Avensis
2.0 VVT-i T4 5dr
£1,795
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£1,995
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i TR 5dr
£2,450
Toyota Avensis
1.8 VVT-i T3-S 5dr
£2,490
See all available cars
About the writer
Name: Stuart Milne
Title: Digital editor
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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.
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