Other Toyota Avensis (2003 - 2008) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That I'm middle of the road and 'sensible' and want to get the most from my money.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    No idea really! One work colleague who I gave a lift to did like the interior and the drive enough to comment on it. I suspect they see it for what it is - practical and economic use of my money.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes - because it does everything you want of it, but I must admit I sometimes yearn for a bit more flair and 'buzz'.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Either another Avensis, but a secret bit of me wants to get a Land Rover Discovery, but can I face the higher costs and the potential loss of reliability??

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £12,300

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2009

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes, reduced somewhat as it was the end of this range of Avensis and had high mileage.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Good, but didn't want to budge further down on the price. Also rather slow in the showroom and not made to feel 'special' in any way - just another customer to process!

  • Driving it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It's good, but doesn't leave a big grin on your face. The turbodiesel pulls well if you push the right pedal, but its ride is sometimes a bit bumpy on our poor roads.

    What's it like to park?

    Very easy, but I did have parking sensors fitted after misjudging the length and bumping the verge once!

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    A few bits. The sat-nav packed up, but I had purchased an extended warranty via my local dealer and this covered it.

    What's most practical about your car?

    It's got plenty of space for everyday use and the dog. It's mechanically bullet proof. I never doubt it will start in all weathers and on all occasions.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Love the built-in sat nav and the climate control. Also first car I have had with cruise control which is brilliant on so many occasions.