Available as saloon model or the larger estate, the big Toyota Avensis is packed full of standard kit no matter which trim level you opt for – T2, TR, T4 and T-Spirit.
In estate form, this Toyota is huge and the one-touch folding rear bench allows for variable interior space to the cabin. All models get a CD player, air conditioning and seven airbags while the mid spec TR model adds cruise control, leather steering wheel and dual zone climate control.
Three diesel and two petrol engines are available. The entry-level 2.0-litre oil-burner makes do with 125bhp while the top 2.2-litre version has 148bhp. Like most diesels it’s the torque that dominates, and both units have it in spades.
For those that must have petrol power there are two smooth revving options – a 1.8-litre with 145bhp and the 2.0-litre that adds only another 5bhp to that total. Performance from the bigger diesel engine is particularly impressive, thanks to a linear power delivery and decent fuel returns.
A good range of standard kit across the range and a three-year/ 60,000 mile warranty means the Avensis makes a strong impression in the showroom. And with all models returning over 40mpg and CO2emissions ranging from 163g/km to 135g/km your annual road tax will light going.
Seven airbags combine with VSC+, ABS and EBD to make the Avensis one of the safest cars in the class – gaining a five star rating in recent EuroNCAP testing. The petrol models emit 154g/km and 163g/km respectively while the diesel range starts at only 135g/k. factor in fuel returns of 43.5mpg for the 1.8 petrol and 55.4mpg for the 2.2 diesel and the Avensis makes a reasonably eco-friendly family runaround.
See O’Mara Toyota, Ballysimon Road and Brian Geary Sales in Rathkeale and Delta Retail Park for details.
