?? Were you aware ??

The new Avensis is the latest Toyota to benefit from Toyota Optimal Drive.

Toyota Optimal Drive reduces business car tax.

A series of engineering solutions lower fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions, but provide better performance.

Toyota Optimal Drive includes new engine technologies; transmissions with low friction components; lightweight compact design; and enhanced combustion efficiency.

On Toyota Avensis petrol models, the VVT-i engine has been replaced by new Valvematic units. This has reduced CO2 on the 1.8-litre Avensis to 154g/gm – an 18% business car tax band.

The range of D-4D diesel engines has also been upgraded on the new Toyota Avensis.

“Toyota Optimal Drive is a no compromise engine philosophy,” explained Richard Balshaw, general manager, Toyota Fleet.

“There is also no compromise on specification, and it doesn’t cost more to buy because it’s labelled an eco model.

“For small businesses, the new Avensis is a very competitive package. It really adds up from a cost of ownership point of view.”

Balshaw said the Toyota Avensis Tourer estate would be the best-selling style. It costs £980 more than the saloon Avensis.

“There are two key Avensis models for small businesses. The good-value TR, or the more upmarket T4 with its heated leather seats,” said Balshaw.

Balshaw said Toyota Optimal Drive technology was being incorporated on all Toyota models – apart from the all-new Toyota Prius hybrid which is due this summer.

Selected Toyota Avensis prices

• Toyota Avensis TR 1.8 V-matic 4dr, £16,702
• Toyota Avensis TR 1.8 V-matic auto 4dr, £17,682
• Toyota Avensis TR 1.8 V-matic Tourer, £17,682
• Toyota Avensis TR 2.0 V-matic Tourer auto, £19,152
• Toyota Avensis T4 2.2 D-4D 150 4dr, £19,812
• Toyota Avensis T4 2.2 D-4D 150 Tourer, £20,792

Further information

For a road test of the new Toyota Avensis, click here: Toyota Avensis 2.2 150 T4 4dr

For more on Toyota and small businesses, read the Editor’s Blog Toyota’s business car champion: Richard Balshaw