The Avensis was one of the first models to undergo Euro NCAP’s more stringent crash tests in 2009. The new overall rating covers not only adult occupant safety but includes child and pedestrian safety along with a rear impact whiplash test. It scored the maximum five stars even though Toyota has cut back on the number of airbags as standard compared with the previous Avensis.

This third-generation model comes with seven (instead of nine) including a driver’s knee airbag. However, electronic stability control is fitted across the range and front seat head restraints move forward in a rear impact to help reduce the risk of whiplash injuries. From Spring 2009 the 2.2 D-CAT 150 T Spirit automatic comes with a collision mitigation braking system that begins to apply the brakes should sensors predict a crash is likely.

We think Toyota Avensis safety is perfectly acceptable.

While not as useful for carrying as the estate version, the Avensis saloon has a large boot and one-touch folding rear seats. With 509 litres of boot space it can carry more than alternatives such as the Volkswagen Passat and Honda Accord. However, rear parking sensors are only standard on the top-of-the-range T Spirit models, which might make tight parking manoeuvres a bit more time consuming for some.