03/10/2006
The Toyota Avensis has long been a popular choice for those prioritising a comfortable and dependable motoring experience. Often lauded for its ability to smooth out the rigours of daily commuting and longer journeys, the Avensis has carved out a niche for itself as a sensible and practical saloon. However, for those with a keen interest in driving dynamics and spirited performance, the picture becomes a little less rosy. This article delves into the specifics of the Toyota Avensis, examining its comfort-focused suspension, the performance of its automatic gearbox, its engine offerings, and general maintenance considerations.
Comfort-Oriented Ride
Toyota designed the Avensis saloon with a clear objective: to provide a supremely comfortable ride that soothes away the miles. The suspension system is tuned to absorb road imperfections effectively, creating a serene cabin environment. Coupled with light steering, this makes the Avensis incredibly easy to manoeuvre, particularly in urban settings and during relaxed motorway cruising. This emphasis on comfort, however, does come at a cost to outright driving enjoyment. Enthusiastic drivers might find the handling somewhat lacking in engagement, with a noticeable tendency for the car to lean in fast corners. While perfectly adequate for everyday driving, the Avensis doesn't quite deliver the sharp, precise handling that some rivals offer.
Performance Figures
In terms of acceleration, every version of the Toyota Avensis can achieve 0-62mph in under 12 seconds. This is perfectly respectable for town and motorway driving, ensuring you have enough power for most situations. However, it's unlikely to set pulses racing. The manual gearbox, when fitted, is generally described as relatively slick and pleasant to use. In contrast, the automatic gearbox has been noted as being somewhat old-fashioned, not quite matching the refinement and responsiveness found in comparable vehicles from other manufacturers.
Toyota Avensis Diesel Engines
The diesel engine range offers a couple of options, each with its own characteristics:
- 1.6-litre Diesel: This engine is exclusively paired with a manual gearbox. It completes the 0-62mph sprint in 11.4 seconds. This performance is perfectly acceptable for economical motoring, but drivers looking for more brisk acceleration might find it a little on the sluggish side, especially when trying to overtake or accelerate quickly.
- 2.0-litre Diesel: Moving up to the 2.0-litre diesel engine, available with a manual gearbox, improves the 0-62mph time to 9.5 seconds. This offers a more spirited performance. However, this comes with the trade-off of being more expensive to purchase and a slight reduction in fuel economy compared to the smaller 1.6-litre unit.
Petrol Engine and Automatic Gearbox
For those specifically seeking an automatic gearbox, the 1.8-litre petrol engine is the sole option within the Avensis range. Toyota has managed to ensure that this automatic transmission has a refreshingly minor impact on the car's overall fuel consumption, which is a definite plus. However, the type of automatic gearbox used is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). CVTs are known for their ability to keep the engine revs at an optimal level for efficiency, but they can sometimes lead to a sensation of the engine holding high revs for extended periods during acceleration. This can create a feeling of disconnect between the driver's input and the car's response, and it may not appeal to everyone.
The 1.8-litre petrol engine itself is quite capable, producing 145bhp. It operates quietly and provides a generally smooth driving experience. In terms of acceleration, it achieves 0-62mph in 9.4 seconds when paired with the manual gearbox. When equipped with the automatic CVT, this figure increases slightly to 10.4 seconds, reflecting the nature of the transmission.
Understanding Your 'Profile'
When we refer to your 'profile' in the context of car ownership, it encompasses the information and tools you use to manage your vehicle. This can include tracking expenses, maintaining a car log for servicing and repairs, setting up replacement schedules for wear-and-tear items, and saving important documents or notes related to your car. Essentially, it's your personalised system for keeping your Toyota Avensis in top condition.
Gearbox Oil and Transmission Oil Changes
Proper maintenance of the gearbox and transmission is crucial for the longevity and smooth operation of your Toyota Avensis. The frequency of gearbox and transmission oil changes can vary depending on the manufacturer's recommendations and driving conditions. However, it's a vital part of ensuring the transmission performs optimally.
When to Change the Oil in Your Toyota
While specific service intervals should always be checked in your Avensis' owner's manual, a general guideline for changing transmission oil is often around the 60,000-mile mark, or as specified by Toyota. If you choose to change the oil yourself, it is absolutely critical to use the exact same oil specification as recommended by Toyota. Using the incorrect oil can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. It is highly recommended to use genuine Toyota oil purchased from an authorised dealer.
Furthermore, when refilling the transmission with new oil, avoid overfilling. Too much oil in the transmission can cause more problems than too little. Overfilling can lead to increased pressure within the transmission, potential overheating, and damage to seals and other components. Always fill to the correct level as indicated by the dipstick or fill plug.
Key Considerations for Avensis Owners
When considering a Toyota Avensis, it's important to weigh up its strengths and weaknesses:
| Strength | Weakness |
|---|---|
| Excellent ride comfort | Less engaging driving dynamics |
| Easy to drive and manoeuvre | Automatic gearbox can feel dated |
| Reliable Toyota build quality | Performance figures are adequate, not exciting |
| Good fuel economy (especially diesel) | Body roll in corners |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the Toyota Avensis a good car for long journeys?
Yes, the Toyota Avensis is generally considered a good car for long journeys due to its comfortable suspension and smooth ride, designed to minimise fatigue.
Q2: How does the Avensis automatic gearbox compare to rivals?
The Avensis' automatic gearbox is often described as being less refined and responsive compared to the more modern transmissions found in some competitors like the Mazda6 or Ford Mondeo.
Q3: What is the best engine for fuel economy in the Avensis?
The diesel engines, particularly the 1.6-litre diesel, typically offer the best fuel economy in the Avensis range.
Q4: Should I worry about the CVT gearbox in the 1.8 petrol Avensis?
If you prefer a more direct and engaging connection to the engine, the CVT might feel less satisfying. However, for those prioritising comfort and fuel efficiency, it's a perfectly functional transmission, provided it's maintained correctly.
In conclusion, the Toyota Avensis remains a strong contender for buyers who value comfort, reliability, and ease of use above all else. While it may not satisfy the most demanding driving enthusiasts, its practical attributes and smooth ride make it a sensible choice for many.
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