We video test the Toyota Avensis

In this latest video, Damien O’Carroll takes the more economical, and definitely sharper-looking, European-built Avensis wagon for a test drive.

Toyota has massively upgraded the Avensis Tourer, including new styling, changes to the 2-litre petrol engine to make it Euro6 emissions compliant and more fuel-efficient, as well as adding more comfort and safety kit.

The new nose brings it more into line with the look of the latest corporate design, with a distinctive look that is modern and eye-catching.

The rear has also come in for changes, with new LED tail lights and re-positioning of the chrome garnish that joins the lights together, while along the sides there are new sculpted aerodynamic side skirts, and at the rear, a top-mounted spoiler.

One of Toyota’s aims for the latest Avensis was to improve comfort and convenience, and the interior makes an important contribution to this goal, and sensory quality and refinement have been taken to the next level.

Features include dual zone aircon, an eight-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, and a reversing camera, as well as a host of safety features.

Toyota has also updated the 112kW/196Nm 1,987cc 3ZR-FAE 16 valve engine (with chain driven double overhead camshafts for long service life), to make it more fuel-efficient and emit fewer CO2 emissions.

A further improvement in fuel economy has been realised through extensive revisions to the Multidrive S continuously variable transmission. These improvements reduce fuel consumption to 6.1L/100km (142g/km).

In addition suspension and steering have been improved to give better ride and handling, and quicker steering response. For more information including latest pricing, go to www.toyota.co.nz/the-new-2016-avensis-and-aurion/.
 

John Oxley, managing editor Company Vehicle.