Toyota Avensis: Mr Reliability comes dressed in a new suit
Review: Ralph Morton
Date Posted: 19/12/2008
Road Tests RSS FeedToyota Avensis 2.2 150 T4 4dr
What is it?
Toyota's all-new Avensis, built here in the UK. The range has now been slimmed down to just a saloon version, tested here, and an estate. All new Toyota Avensis models feature Optimal Drive technology. Behind the techno-marketing speak, this means lower CO2 emissions, improved fuel economy and better performance. All achieved without the cars wearing a self-conscious 'eco' badge. There are three diesel models: this is the mid-range 2.2-litre 150PS model. Tested here in T4 trim – a well-specified grade Toyota expects small business owners to choose.
What's hot?
- New look includes striking 'clamshell' bonnet design
- Improved interior quality and furnishings
- Punchy engine still gives over 50mpg...
- ...and a business car tax band rating of just 20%
- Toyota's legendary reliability
- High safety levels: seven airbags, including kneebag for driver
- Plus whiplash-reducing active front head restraints...
- ...and standard anti-lock ABS brakes and anti-skid VSC
- Lots of standard kit, too: air con, 17inch alloys, leather
- Straightforward does-the-job cabin
What's not?
- It's still a bit the same old Avensis...
- ...featuring functionality above pizzazz
- Around town ride is choppy
- And tyre roar on motorways is higher than expected
- Electronic parking brake fiddly to use
- You'll need to budget for the £1500 satnav plus rear parking system
What you need to Know
| P11D Value: | £20,356 |
| Monthly Rental*: | £401 |
| Tax Band when posted: | 20% |
| Monthly BiK: | 68 (20%)/£136 (40%) |
| Engine: | 2.2-litre turbo diesel |
| CO2 Emissions: | 147g/km |
| Power/torque: | 148bhp/340Nm |
| Economy: | 51.4mpg |
Business Car Manager Road Test Rating
This is everything you admired about the old Toyota Avensis. Only updated and generally better. The Avensis T4 is well-specified and a brilliantly functional get-you-there-without-fuss business car. And all backed up by the notion it will never let you down. It might not sparkle; but Mr Reliable is valued for reasons other than a look-at-me personality. The new Avensis: safe, sound, and solid.
TAGS: Toyota Avensis, Ralph Morton, Toyota Avensis 2.2 150 T4 4dr, Optimal Drive, Toyota, Avensis
