Car reviews

It's easy to overlook the Avensis - especially given it's anonymous styling. Even a mid-life facelift in 2006 did little to boost it's kerbside appeal, however, look past that and you'll find a well built family car that's one of the safest on the market thanks to nine airbags. There's little excitement along the way though and the driving experience reflects the looks - in other words although safe and reassuring there's little to set the pulse racing. The interior is equally as mundane although on the plus side the layout is clear and the controls simple to get on with. But what the Avensis does boast is a superb record for reliability - add in a dealer network with an outstanding reputation for customer service, some great D-4D diesel engines and the Toyota takes on a whole new appeal.