Used buyer's guide: Toyota Avensis pictures

While the interior is as uninspiring as the exterior, it’s well built and laid-out. There’s room for five, with enough rear space for most people. The saloon’s boot is slightly bigger than the hatchback’s, although the latter offers gr

Headlamp bulb holders can melt on pre-2005 models, making replacing a bulb impossible. A new headlight costs £200-£250 fitted.

Engines use a lot of oil; up to a litre every 600 miles for early 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrols, and a litre every 5,000 miles for the 2.2 diesel.

Rattles and creaks from the steering are common. It’s more annoying than dangerous, but some models have been recalled for it.

Manual boxes can fail prematurely, so listen out for any rumbling or whining. Clutches can wear out disappointingly quickly as well.