Overall Rating |  |
Avensis tends to get overlooked by family motorists, yet it's a serious contender. One of the most comfortable cars in its class, it's roomy, reliable and well built but lacks presence.
For
- Spacious and smooth-riding
- Excellent value in its class
- Very reliable and easy to live with
Against
- Dull styling and image
- Sedate to drive rather than sporty
- Loses value quite quickly
Road Test
Avensis offers a roomy saloon, a flexible hatchback and a truly spacious estate, all nicely packaged and outstandingly reliable. And all for less than Mondeo money. Styling is clean but neither as pure as the 406 nor as purposeful as Passat.
Above-average ride and refinement make Avensis an excellent motorway mile-muncher. Despite willing engines (VVTi units from 2000 are best), it's not really a driver's car - its reactions are well-mannered and tidy rather than sharp and sporty. The petrol engines are economical given the car's size; there's also a modern D4-D turbodiesel giving nearly 50mpg. The 2.0 TD is slower and thirstier.
The big, light cabin is well finished in a slightly conservative style. There's air con on all cars except S models (1997-2000), plus twin front and side airbags. GLS and CDX versions add an electric sunroof.
Distinctive it isn't, but Avensis is certainly cheap for what it offers.
Need To Know
NCAP: 3
Best Models: 1.8 VVTi GLS or CDX
Worst Models: 1.6 to 2000
Replacement: By current Avensis in 2003
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling  Comfort Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav |
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