TOYOTA HAS launched its new Avensis as well as its city car – the iQ. The new Avensis enters the family car market with increased competition – cars like the Opel Insignia are likely to push it harder at the top of the segment, but Toyota is confident of success, even in this year’s market.
The new Avensis boasts improved looks and, while the dimensions are virtually the same, the wheels have been pushed out to give the car a more solid stance and improved handling.
Our brief drive at the Irish launch gave the impression of a car that has better steering and handling than before, with Toyota keen to point out that the Irish market has been given a unique suspension set-up.
The engine line-up will be familiar to Avensis customers, with 1.6-litre, 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre petrol versions. Also on offer are a 125bhp 2.0-litre diesel and a 2.2-litre 150bhp diesel.
Using new technology called Toyota Optimal Drive, Toyota has decreased emissions and fuel consumption, while increasing power. The 1.6-litre petrol now has 132bhp, 20 per cent more power than before, while emissions have reduced to 152g/km, meaning it is now in Band C. The 2.0-litre D-4D diesel has CO2 emissions of 135g/km (Band B).
Prices are from €25,565 for the 1.6-litre Terra grade saloon; from €26,015 for the 2.0-litre D-4D Terra saloon; and from €28,100 for the Tourer.
Toyota’s iQ, which comes with either 1.0-litre petrol or 1.4-litre diesel, no less than nine airbags and emissions as low as 99g/km, will start at €13,690 for a two-seater version, and €14,410 for the four-seater. Prices increase to €20,430 for the 1.4-litre diesel.
Full road tests of both cars will feature in Motors in the coming weeks.