Skip advert
Advertisement

Toyota Avensis

Estate variant aims to give newcomer fresh edge

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Find your Toyota Avensis
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Toyota has worked hard on improving the quality of the new Avensis, and it’s paid off – it’s now closer to the Lexus than ever. It’s a shame that the same flair wasn’t applied to the design and driving dynamics, which fail to impress. A definite improvement over the last model, but the company has played it far too safe – especially when you consider the competition.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Avensis has arrived with high expectation – yet when we drove Toyota’s new saloon in Issue 1,042, we were underwhelmed by its bland looks and personality.

But will the estate change our minds by adding a large helping of practicality? Well, its elongated profile makes it far easier on the eye, and it doesn’t compromise versatility as there’s still 1,609 litres of space with the rear seats folded flat – over 100 litres more than in a Citroen C5 Tourer.

Now there’s no hatchback in the range, Toyota predicts the estate will account for more than half of Avensis sales in Europe. Our test car had the 146bhp 2.2-litre D-4D engine mated to a six-speed box. It pulls cleanly from low down and is quiet – although there is a hint of clatter from start-up.

Dynamically it’s hard to find any real weaknesses. The steering is numb but direct, while the brakes and gearchange have
a solidity to them, although offer little connection to the road. It’s effortless but uninspiring to drive.

The Avensis’s strength lies in its Lexus-like cabin, due to the fine materials and logical layout. And in our top-spec T Spirit, you even get toys such as a premium sound system and a panoramic glass roof as standard.

Rival: Citroen C5
Not the choice for keen drivers, but the C5 has personality all of its own. It offers practicality and is a great cruiser. The looks alone are enough to lure people away from more traditional family car choices.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Our latest car deals

Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £25,015Avg. savings £2,749 off RRP*Compare Offers
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,380Avg. savings £1,844 off RRP*Compare Offers
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,155Avg. savings £2,019 off RRP*Compare Offers
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,040Avg. savings £2,827 off RRP*Compare Offers
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

These used cars from 1985 just became tax-free classics
These used cars from 1985 just became tax-free classics header

These used cars from 1985 just became tax-free classics

Is it time to get on board with these 40-year-old cars that have just qualified for the historic vehicle road tax exemption?
Features
12 Jan 2025
Car Deal of the Day: simply brilliant new Skoda Elroq SUV for under £300 per month
Skoda Elroq - side static

Car Deal of the Day: simply brilliant new Skoda Elroq SUV for under £300 per month

Our Deal of the Day for 12 January is a great price for Skoda’s supremely comfortable and very spacious new electric SUV
News
12 Jan 2025
Lexus LBX Takumi long-term test: impeccable quality meets surprising inefficiency
Auto Express senior news reporter Alastair Crooks standing next to the Lexus LBX while holding a giant Uno playing card

Lexus LBX Takumi long-term test: impeccable quality meets surprising inefficiency

First report: this new compact hybrid cross pulled an UNO reverse card on us
Long-term tests
12 Jan 2025