Toyota Avensis Saloon (03-08) - Review

Review by Parkers
Last Updated:
Aiming for class-leading quality (and perhaps putting into practice some of the things Toyota has learned with its luxury brand, Lexus) the Avensis represents a major leap forward over the original. The interior feels up-market and the Avensis is comfortable drive. The diesel offering was restricted to one 114bhp engine until summer 2005, although three became available, ranging from 124bhp to 175bhp, from summer 2006. The Avensis scores highly for comfort and should prove to be exceptionally reliable, but does not offer such an engaging drive as the Ford Mondeo, Mazda6 or Peugeot 407.
5 out of 5

Safety

One of the safest cars on the road (it was the safest for a short while) with a five-star Euro NCAP rating; ABS, loads of airbags (including 'kneebags'); ticks all safety boxes. Alarm/immobiliser, double locking, etched glass and marked parts for security.

NCAP Test

Euro NCAP logo Euro NCAP

Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
5 out of 5

Reliability

Toyota consistently tops build quality surveys (the company is top for reliability according to owners' reviews at parkers.co.uk). Look after it and it should reward you with thousands of miles of trouble-free motoring.

Car check problem points

Body

Stone chips from motorway miles

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.