The Toyota Avensis is the motoring equivalent of Axminster carpet. You get bored of the pattern long before it wears out.

 

Introduced as a replacement for the competent but dull Toyota Carina the Toyota Avensis has, since its launch in November 1997 proven its self to be one of the most reliable cars money can buy. And whilst many critics slate its mediocre looks the truth is that in 1.8 form it’s faster than an equivalent Honda Accord, more powerful than a Vauxhall Vectra and more economical than a Ford Mondeo. And if that’s not enough it costs less to buy as well.

 

With a choice of two transmissions, three body styles, four engines and at least half a dozen trim levels potential buyers are likely to find a car to suit there needs.

 

Pre August 2000 cars carried over engines from the Carina with a choice of 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 litre petrol and a 2.0 litre turbo diesel. But the diesel unit offers little advantage over the petrol equivalents with lack luster performance and mediocre economy from the 89bhp engine.

 

Most models are available with a choice of 5 speed manual or 4 speed auto box which despite its eager kick down is not the smoothest or quickest. By contrast the manual box is light and precise, making it one of the nicest in its class.

 

On the road the Avensis is quiet and comfortable; the power assisted steering providing plenty of feel and feedback. Large seats with plenty of adjustment will accommodate most drivers and rear passengers are also well catered for with good shoulder room and three proper three-point seat belts.

 

In August 2000 the Avensis had a facelift with changes to the headlamps, front grille and rear lamp clusters. Internally the car sported a revised dashboard using darker plastics that give the car a more up market feel than those earlier cars with pale interiors. The new centre consol now accommodated the trip computer and satellite navigation system which became standard equipment on all but the base models.

 

Engine power was also improved with petrol engines receiving the VVTi treatment, Toyota's variable value timing system, and the diesel being replaced by a direct-injection, common rail unit that boost power to 109bhp. To handle the extra performance brakes were up rated with all models now having disc brakes all round.

 

These post August 2000 cars are the most desirable used buys. If you cover high mileage the more powerful engine of the diesel makes a strong case for itself but for average and low mileage users the 1.8 petrol represents the best buy offering reasonable economy and performance without the purchase price premium commanded by the diesel cars.

 

With excellent durability it’s easy for the unscrupulous to pass a 150,000 mile Avensis on as a 50,000 miler so insist on viewing the service book AND invoices to authenticate the cars history.

 

Buying from one of the 220 official Toyota dealers will protect you from such problems and provide the peace of mind of a minimum of 12 months warranty, although the chances are being an Avensis you’ll never have to make a claim!

    

 

Check the following

• CD stacker – floor mounted unit is prone to damage

• Satellite navigation – fitted to all except base models

• Trim – wears well, can hide high mileage so check the service book carefully

• Colours - dull looks not helped by non metallic finishes

• Popular with rental companies – check doors and bumpers for minor damage

• Facelift in August 2000 – new grill, bumpers and lamps

• Insurance groups – 1.6 group 7       1.8 group 8      2.0 petrol and diesel group 10

• Remote control central locking and immobiliser standard on all models

• Airbags – front and side bags standard on all models

• Split fold rear seat on saloon, hatchbacks and estate models

• Brakes – ABS standard, discs all round since Aug 2000

 

The one to buy 

 

Toyota Avensis 1.8VVTi GLS 5 door hatchback

2000 ‘X’ with 40,000 miles and full Toyota service history

Pay £6,575 at a dealer £5,800 privately