Toyota Avensis Hatchback (2003 - 2008) 2.0 D-4D T4 5d (2005/55) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Despite having one small child I don't feel the need to buy a huge MPV and besides, I don't like the way tall cars roll on corners. The Avensis has sober styling which shouldn't become dated too quickly. Toyota brand known for high reliability.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Expensive - most of them buy cheaper cars.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, because it is more quiet, comfortable and economical than other cars I have considered.
What are you likely to buy next?
An Avensis estate
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£14,400
When did you buy the car?
October 2006
Did you get a good deal and why?
Car was low mileage and less than 1 year old but had a significant reduction in price compared to the new price.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
More comfortable and perceived as being more reliable than Octavia, C5 or Mazda 6 which were also considered. Moved house recently so commute to work is over 40 miles per day on motorway and wanted a quiet economical cruiser.
What was the dealer like?
Helpful. Happy to allow test drive in similar car.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Quiet. Plenty of power in reserve for positive and clear manoeuvres on motorways e.g.for getting out of other peoples' blindspots when they change speed slightly. Great fuel economy - 550 miles from Northern Scotland to South Wales without refuelling, averaged 61.5mpg. Not the most supple suspension over speed bumps at low speeds. Front seats give great support for the shoulders of tall drivers.
What's it like to park?
It is a large car but electrically folding mirrors help avoid damage. No parking sensors fitted. Worth protecting the edges of doors with something against scratches when opening them in tight spaces.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Glass in driver's door mirror came loose but mechanic popped it back into the housing. Needed 2 replacement windscreen due to stone chips/cracks from motorway driving. When you press the appropriate buttons on the Sat Nav for information regarding any problems ahead on the road it always says that there are no problems even when there have been traffic jams.
What's most practical about your car?
5 doors. It is a large well thought out family hatchback.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Dual climate control
