Whole photo session
New "Toyota Avensis" - everything is as usual and even a little better
Externally, the third "Avensis" is very different from its predecessor. Not a single common detail: the body of the car was completely redesigned. The car has become larger, more solid, and its design, perhaps, is somewhat more expressive. But the chassis of the Avensis remained the same. Apparently, Japanese rationalism has taken its toll - what's the point of fundamentally changing a generally successful platform? But the model received new, more powerful engines of the “Valvematic” family, and the place of the obsolete four-speed “automatic” was taken by the ultra-modern “Multidrive S” variator with the possibility of manual gear shifting.
“FLAGSHIP, flagship model, new leader, top of the range” - Toyota representatives repeated these words so often that I simply could not help but ask again:
- Excuse me, which flagship, but really? ..
“Yes, yes, of course,” they didn’t even let me finish the question. - We remember that in Russia the highest rank "Toyota Camry" is also sold. But for the rest of Europe, the flagship is precisely “Avensis”.
Indeed, Europeans and Russians perceive "Avensis" differently. For motorists of the Old World, this is the largest, most luxurious and prestigious passenger model from Toyota. And for us - an intermediate link between the super popular "Corolla" and "Camry".
In principle, both approaches have a right to exist. But, developing the new “Avensis”, the Japanese looked at it primarily from the position of the Europeans. That is why, as the Toyota people told me, the chief engineer of the project Takashi Yamamoto, before starting to develop the car, visited a dozen European countries (I am ready to bet that Russia was not among them), talked with specialists and motorists, found out their tastes, requests and preferences, and only after that took up the drawings.
By the way, a team of employees of the European headquarters of Toyota Motor Corporation, invited to Japan, helped him in his work. Thus, what they got in the end can be considered the fruit of cooperation between specialists from two cultures. A kind of sushi bar in the center of Brussels (somewhere next to the European office of Toyota) is an adaptation of the traditions of Japanese cuisine to the tastes of the Old World.
In Europe, "Avensis" is the flagship of the model range, the largest and most prestigious passenger car "Toyota".
The less, the more interesting
The menu of the multimedia system is completely Russified, the voice messages of the navigator also sound in Russian.
The interior of the new Avensis, perhaps, cannot be called expressive, but you can’t find fault with ergonomics, and the quality of finishing materials is at a decent level.
I AM LUCKY. It seems that one of the foreign journalists broke or completely smashed the car intended for the test drive. She was urgently replaced with the first car that came across, which was at hand. And I managed to fish out the key to this replacement car from a bunch of key fobs from test Avensises.
What's the luck here? Yes, that I got a car in almost the basic configuration and with the most low-powered engine. Usually, to get acquainted with the new model, manufacturers offer only top-end versions with almost maximum equipment. It is clear that such machines look more attractive, and what the cheaper modifications are, often one can only guess.
But this time it turned out differently. I have an "Avensis" with a 1.6 liter engine and a six-speed "mechanics". Salon, of course, rag, there is not even a full-time audio system. And the engine is started not with a button, as on most versions of the novelty, but in the old fashioned way - with the ignition key.
Let's change the car! the organizers were suddenly alarmed. - We have richer modifications, with Russian-language navigation, a rear-view camera, a 1.8-liter engine and a CVT ...
- No. Thank you. Now I will go on this one, and then, perhaps, I will change it to another.
The computer self-diagnosis system will remind the owner of the machine about the timing of the replacement of consumables and elements.
When the reverse is turned on, a picture from the camera located at the rear of the machine is displayed on the screen. But the computer does not display the optimal trajectory of movement.
So, let's go. To be honest, I don’t understand why the organizers of the test drive were suddenly worried. My first impressions of the car are the most favorable. The flagship is the flagship. Even with a low power motor.
However, stop! Why underpowered? Who said that? Yes, my car is equipped with a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine. But this is a completely new engine, and the Japanese are removing 132 hp from its not too impressive volume. Is this not enough for you? More recently, such power was the lot of good two-liter engines. By the way, the base 1.8-liter engine of the previous Avensis produced less. Even taking into account the use of the progressive valve timing system VVT-i, its return was only 129 forces.
The new Toyota engines of the "Valvematic" family (which replaced the engines of the V VT-i family) are noticeably more powerful than their predecessors. Mainly due to the fact that they change not only the opening time of the intake valves, but also the height of their rise. Thanks to this, the air sucked into the cylinders is dosed more accurately, the combustion process is optimized, and as a result, power is increased. Moreover, and this is very important, not at the expense of efficiency.
This is how it works in theory. But in practice - without knowing in advance, it is difficult to guess that the volume of the engine under the hood of my Avensis is only 1.6 liters. Of course, when starting from a place, the headrest does not hit the driver on the back of the head and the seat does not creak from the weight of the body pressed into it. 132 “horses” are not enough for this. But acceleration to “hundreds” in 10.4 s is a very worthy indicator. At least allowing not to feel flawed in a dynamic traffic flow.
The engineers of "Toyota" abandoned the classic "machine" - instead of it, a variator was installed on the new "Avensis".
What you don't notice
MY GRANDFATHER, the smartest man, loved to teach me:
Do you know how much money you need to be happy?
Well, probably a lot...
- No, not much, but just enough to not think about them. And what is the best weather? The one you don't notice!
The slot for loading audio CDs is located under the folding screen. There is also a built-in hard disk connector, which can store up to 10 GB of music.
The trunk volume of the sedan is just over 500 liters. Three or four medium-sized suitcases fit easily there. But it is inconvenient to load them - the opening is too narrow.
Continuing his thought, I am ready to argue that the best transmission is the one that does not remind of its existence in any way. It's like she doesn't exist at all. A manual transmission does not fall under this definition in any case. Until recently, the classic torque converter “automatic” was closest to the ideal. But exactly - close, nothing more. All other schemes - "robots", variators and others like them - sinned with many features that did not allow them to forget about their presence for a second. I will not list all the problems - enough has been said and written about them. And everyone who drove cars with similar boxes is familiar with their shortcomings.
Japanese engineers also know them. Therefore, for the next generation of Avensis, they did not install a far from perfect (not only in my opinion) robotic gearbox, which is used on the Corolla and Auris models, but preferred to develop a completely new Multidrive S variator.
True, to try it out, I had to swap cars with a colleague. The fact is that the youngest 1.6-liter engine in the range is combined only with “mechanics”. Senior two-liter (152 hp) - only with a variator. And only for the average 1.8-liter (147 hp) options are possible.
This time I got a 147-horsepower car. I will say right away - I did not feel a fundamental difference in dynamics. Well, yes, there is a little more traction at low revs, acceleration is generally the same. But the transmission...
Here is a quote from the official press release: “The Multidrive S CVT provides incredibly smooth shifting, optimizes torque and fuel consumption, always using the optimum engine speed.” Ready to confirm and even subscribe to every word. Except that switching is not felt even in the so-called manual mode ...
The new Toyota CVT is really “a transmission that doesn’t exist”. It literally does not betray its presence in any way, you can’t even hear the monotonous, annoying noise of the motor, constantly working at the same, optimal from the point of view of electronics, speed. Although there are not many noises in Avensis at all. Very quiet car. Having jumped out onto a repaired section of the road with partially removed asphalt, I was even frightened when the rustling of wheels on gravel crumbs suddenly became audible. Prior to this, the cabin was completely quiet.
The other side of good
The back seat is quite spacious. There is enough space above your head, and your knees do not rest against the back of the front seat.
The keyless engine start system is offered for a surcharge, but the electronic “handbrake” is included in the basic equipment.
A NEW CVT, no matter how good it is, is not the main and by no means the only advantage of the car. But the invisibility of the work of a continuously variable transmission is one of the important components of the image of the new Avensis. A car that performs its functions imperceptibly, unobtrusively and at the same time flawlessly.
Does the motor pull well and consume little fuel? Fine, but in a couple of weeks the owner of the Toyota Avensis will take it for granted. Does the CVT smoothly and imperceptibly change the gear ratio of the transmission? Amazing! But this smoothness will become a habit in just a couple of days. Is it quiet in the cabin? In an hour you forget that it happens otherwise.
Japanese engineers even made sure that the owner of Avensis thought less about scheduled maintenance - compared to other models of the company, the interservice mileage was increased to 15,000 km. And also, in order to make repairs in the event of a minor accident as easy as possible, the bumper mounts, headlight brackets and other small things that suffer in collisions are made easily removable, disposable and as cheap as possible.
However, all these advantages also have a downside. The car turned out to be imperceptible in everything and for everyone. There is nothing to catch the eye, nothing to focus on. However, the previous “Avensis” could not boast of any super-original, outstanding features. That, however, did not harm his popularity in the least, quite the contrary. Although, I remember, no one sang praises to him either. Maybe in vain? Maybe. It's just that people quickly get used to the good and stop noticing it. That's the way we're made...
RETROSPECTIVE
1998 – 2002
The first generation Avensis was produced at the Toyota plant in the UK. This car replaced the “Carina E” model, which became famous for its reliability and unpretentiousness in operation. Through the efforts of Japanese engineers, "Avensis" has fully inherited all the best qualities of its predecessor. Structurally, these models are also quite similar. The running gear hasn't changed much. The base was considered a 1.6-liter gasoline engine, there were also engines of 1.8 and 2 liters. And in Europe, a two-liter turbodiesel was also sold.
2003 – 2008
The second generation model was also produced in England and even exported from there to Japan. Compared to its predecessor, the new Avensis has been completely designed from scratch. The car received significantly upgraded engines. In our market, the 1.8-liter engine of the VVT-i family with a capacity of 129 hp has become the base. And the flagship version was also equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine borrowed from the Camry model. Diesel modifications, which were designated “D-4D”, were not sold with us.
SAFETY
The steering wheel will help the driver
The fact that the new “Avensis” is equipped with ABS with an automatic brake force distribution system and an emergency brake booster can not even be said. The system of exchange rate stability and traction control today, perhaps, will not surprise anyone either. All this is available in many models. But Toyota engineers came up with something more ...
The ELECTRIC power steering, which is installed on the new Avensis, can work in conjunction with the VSC dynamic stabilization system and, if necessary, independently turn the steering wheel at a small angle. Thus, in emergency situations, the car, at the command of the electronics, can slightly correct its trajectory itself or even help compensate for skidding.
But it’s too early to talk about the passive safety of Avensis. The model has just appeared on the market, and its crash tests under the EuroNCAP program have not yet been carried out. But considering that in 2003 the previous "Avensis" has already received the highest marks in these tests, we can expect that the novelty will show itself no worse. At least already in the basic configuration, it is equipped with seven airbags, including an additional “air bag” that protects the driver’s knees.
MODIFICATION
For the most practical
The new "Avensis" is available in two versions: sedan and station wagon. Representatives of the Toyota company claim that the station wagon body was designed separately, and therefore it looks fundamentally different from the base sedan.
The Wagon is slightly longer than the sedan. Its rear overhang has been increased by approximately 70 mm. But outwardly it is almost imperceptible. The car does not look more massive. First of all, this is the merit of the designers, who, designing the rear of the body, tried to save it from the excessive bulkiness inherent in many station wagons.
Trunk volumes, if you measure them to the line of the rear windows, do not differ fundamentally between the sedan and the station wagon: 509 liters versus 543. But if you fold the rear seats of the station wagon, then a very impressive space will be freed up for luggage - more than 1,600 liters.
| Brief technical characteristics of “Toyota Avensis” | |||
| Dimensions, cm | 470x181x148 | ||
| Curb weight, kg | 1.365 - 1.435* | 1.370 - 1.455* | 1.435 - 1.505* |
| Engine | 4-cyl., in-line, 1.598 cu. cm | 4-cyl., in-line, 1.798 cu. cm | 4-cyl., in-line, 1.987 cu. cm |
| Power | 132 HP at 6.400 rpm | 147 HP at 6.400 rpm | 152 HP at 6.200 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm at 4.400 rpm | 180 Nm at 4.000 rpm | 196 Nm at 4.000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, mechanical | 6-speed, mechanical (variable speed drive) | variable speed drive |
| type of drive | front | ||
| Maximum speed, km/h | 200 | 200 | 205 |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 10,4 | 9,4 (10,4) | 10,0 |
| Average consumption fuel, l/100 km | 6,5 | 6,5 (6,7) | 7 |
| Fuel reserve, l | 60 | ||
| * Depending on equipment. | |||
The closed parking lot of our bank resembles an army parade ground: all cars are the same as soldiers in the ranks. One Avensis, two Avensis, three, four, five. And so on until ten. Even their license plates differ by only one digit in a three-digit number. What can you do: in Russia, Toyota Avensis is a frequenter of corporate fleets.
History tasteless as dust. The bank bought a batch of new Toyotas to replace the old ones, which were written off by mileage and period of use. It would seem that this is a novelty, a third-generation car that has just appeared on the Russian market. But she entered my life completely unnoticed, taking her place in the usual chain of accessories: Avensis - a formal suit - a communicator in which every day is scheduled by the minute.
According to the owner's manual, the 17-inch alloy wheels hide 320mm front and 290mm rear brake discs. The Avensis brakes well, and the only complaint concerns the pedal, which stands up as a stake when you press it quickly.
As a link between family and work, the Avensis doesn't get much more detailed than "sit comfortably, eat well." But I read the automotive press, I know all the terminology, I'm interested in cars! I am observant — so why not talk about Avensis with feeling? Or at least in a big way. At worst, there will be something to attach to a resume in DRIVE.RU, if suddenly I get tired of doing economics. There are such examples in their edition.
Outwardly, the new Avensis is quite strict and smart. Like me in a business suit. And you can’t refuse the harmony of the image of the “Japanese”. The most interesting details are in the front.
First of all, the new Avensis is no longer the same trade-wind “fish” that has made the last six years look like one long Thursday. Today, unexpected parallels can be traced in appearance: for example, the hood suddenly evokes associations with the updated Saab 9-3. The unusually shaped front optics and stamping at the bottom of the doors hold the passer-by's gaze for several seconds that are endless for Toyota. If our head of the analytical department did not have the same Avensis, this guy would certainly look back after mine.
The sidewalls are decorated with “hangers” in the style of the Volvo S60 family sedan. It is a pity that these elements persistently loom in the side mirrors, hiding what is happening in the area of the thresholds.
Inside is a space of minimized risks. It is open to a person of any build thanks to a wide doorway. The interior is devoid of zest, but looks solid. The amount of soft and hard plastic is balanced, like a debit with a credit on the eve of a check. Not a Brioni suit, of course, but Feraud will do. Although even with the office uniform of such brands, I would not wear a plastic Casio watch, which is suggested by the convenient climate control unit.
- With a peppy ride, the lack of distinct lateral support for the front seats is compensated by the frictional properties of the leather trim. But at such a pace, the variator, and with it the central tunnel, heat up so much that at least water boils in the cup holder.
- The main touch display could use a higher resolution, and it fades in sunny weather. Although it is easy to navigate the wilds of the multimedia complex, as well as use the “navigation” with a detailed and visual map. It's a pity, occasionally a cute female voice (just like my assistant's) asks to drive under the brick.
- A couple of hours behind the wheel - and you can switch modes of the Multidrive S variator blindly. The large Sport button is also easy to find without looking. Just keep in mind that dynamic movement around the city in sport mode will result in 14-15 liters of gasoline per 100 km.
Avensis allows you to sit down correctly and with a serious face to praise a wide range of adjustments: there is enough free space for both arms and legs. But after a whole day of business plans, quotes and rubles-euro-dollars, I want to place myself in a comfortable chair. And it is harsh, and the back diligently pushes my tired body. But the side mirrors are good, and the bright illumination of the dashboard can be dimmed in the evening. The multimedia system is also convenient to use: the buttons are large, including the “virtual” keys on the central touch screen (you don’t have to squint to get into them, like Tom Berenger in Sniper).
I would not recommend using the new Avensis as a "personal". Rear passengers do not have air deflectors. But there is a massive armrest, too much tilted forward, and headrests, as if made of stone. And a person taller than 185 cm will now and then touch the ceiling with his head.
On the go, it is most difficult for Avensis to apply the definition of “state-owned”. It is resilient and soft enough: small and medium road troubles do not bring discomfort to riders. And no ship buildup. Only on large pits, which, as you understand, I don’t try to go around, Toyota seems harsh, although the sound accompaniment of the front suspension is much more annoying. Potholes in the pavement, cracks, rails not flush with the rubber pads resound with loud metallic curses somewhere at the feet. In my memory, only the beautiful Mazda6, which I almost bought my wife, cursed like that.
As you can imagine, I am fenced off from a professional assessment of controllability by a non-deformable barrier. The car turns, does not roll much - and it's nice. But isn't it significant that Avensis makes me squeeze the plump three-spoke donut with interest, changing the usual route? The ribbon of the Rogachevskoye Highway now curls like an eel, then quickly straightens. A couple of quick turns - and it does not seem to me that the electric power steering is not saying anything.
Soundproofing is weird. You sit on the back sofa - the "Japanese" seems to be a fairly quiet car. But in the driver's seat you can hear how the front wheel arches sing, and how the wind howls at the windshield pillars.
And most importantly, this is Toyota, that is, when it begins to seem to me that the meaning of the words “reactions are precise, but cat-like soft”, the delicate stabilization system is already preventing the drift of the front wheels and taking control of the following sliding all four.
A two-liter "four" from among the good "economists". On the highway, you can keep within 6.2 liters per 100 km, and in the city, with a quiet ride, you can stay within ten liters.
Let me not adept speed. But that is why the normal operation of the variator and the extended responses of the 152-horsepower “four” 2.0 are to my liking. Life barely flickers on the tip of the tachometer. However, let's not pretend that the Sport button on the central tunnel does not exist. As soon as the letter S is displayed on the dashboard, the spirit of my assistant is infused into the power unit. She does everything before you ask. But if it was as responsive as the Avensis in sport mode, I would have problems at home. The engine easily spins up to 5000 rpm, precisely following the pedal. Even at speeds over 120 km / h, Avensis has enough traction reserve. Neither the 145-horsepower Mondeo nor the Mazda6 2.0 AT, familiar to me by chance, accelerate like that.
Competitors are remembered not by chance. For me, the new Avensis has become a collective image: it looks like almost all of its opponents in the class. In terms of handling - almost Mondeo, in terms of composure of the suspension, it falls a little short of the level of Insignia (it would still be quieter), ergonomics - five minutes to Volkswagen. And that the mood is purely Toyota, boring and lifeless, as is commonly believed. Believe a person with rich experience in operating a wide variety of Toyotas: the more boring Toyota is at a passing acquaintance, the more pleasant it is in everyday life when the head is torn from labor worries. Avensis is like a ticket to a sanatorium.
There is only one "but". All of the above is true if you were given this car at work. If you want to spend 1,387,000 honestly earned rubles (or, more than aspirations, borrowed from my bank) on Avensis in the top Lux package, think hard. “My” car is exactly like that, and neither I nor my colleagues who are supposed to Avensis can find a reason to pay that kind of money. Unless the fleet manager of the bank would have thought about it, but he is more interested in operating costs. At least officially.
A considerable volume of the trunk (509 l) is increased thanks to the folding back of the sofa in parts (60:40). As pluses, we write down a wide opening and a handle for closing on the inside of the lid, upholstered in fabric. Cons - loading height and zeal, with which the lid shoots up. It's kind of disingenuous.
Another thing is version 1.8. A less powerful engine that produces 147 "horses" and a more modest list of equipment do not deprive the Avensis of a solid "corporate" appearance and do not make it a lesser quality car. However, you no longer have to listen to the annoying question over and over again, why did you choose Avensis, and not a 200-horsepower Volkswagen Passat Highline with a six-speed automatic, worth 1,382,235 rubles.
Everyone is used to the fact that Toyota cannot create anything that is not successful. Maybe a strange design that many will not like, or a couple of “jambs” in the car due to indiscretion, but they don’t have completely unsuccessful copies.
The company is considered by many to be the best automaker in the world.
Today in the review we are pleased to present you the Toyota Avensis 2007 2nd generation. The release of the 2nd generation Avensis Toyota began in 2003. This is the T-25 or T-25 (2006) model. The restyled version differs from the older version quite simply - in the color of the taillights. In the pre-styling version, it is completely red, and in the restyled version it has white inserts, but in general the design has not changed much.
Exterior
Appearance is the main criterion for choosing and buying a car. There is practically nothing to tell about the design of Avensis Toyota, it is quite controversial. There are several complaints about it:
- the car is quite low, the ground clearance is only 150 cm, but there are cars with 130 cm. Off-road, of course, you can’t drive an Avensis Toyota
- incomprehensible bumper with two-piece plastic lining, which everyone constantly clings to
There are also some advantages:
- good Mishlen tires, 16" rims
- window tinting
Interior
In this car, the trunk has a volume of 520 liters. The opening is large enough, there is a handle for closing. The only negative that almost everyone complains about is that it creaks.
Avensis Toyota is a car for every day with a good package. It is worth considering when buying that the fabric interior absorbs dust and various stains. In the maximum configuration with a 2.4 liter engine, the interior will be leather.
What is installed in this version?
- power windows
- heated windshield, side and rear
- heated front seats
- Rain sensor
- 9 airbags
Unfortunately there is no cruise control.
There is plenty of room in the cabin, especially for passengers in the back seat. For their convenience, an ashtray, a 12-volt outlet and a light are located next to them.
The doors are quite heavy, but close very easily. It seems that they themselves "squeeze". The Toyota Avensis 2008 audio system is somehow strangely tied to its work. You can listen to music only when the car is running.
Specifications
The car participating in the review is equipped with a 1.8-liter V-VTI engine, 16-valve with 129 horsepower. Until 2005, such an assembly wasted a lot of oil. The problem was huge and appeared instantly. This happened due to flaws in the piston group. He also clogged due to low-quality oil. But in 2005 this problem was solved. The channels in the motor were made twice as large and the rings and the cylinder block processing system were changed. It has increased the filling volume of oil.
There is also a simpler motor of 1.6 liters and 110 hp. s., accelerates to hundreds in 11 seconds. In the city, such an engine is quite enough, but again, until 2005, it “ate” oil very much.
And also Avensis Toyota has a 2-liter engine, 147 horsepower. Fuel consumption in the city is only 1 liter more than the 1.8-liter. At the same time, the car is more dynamic. The only feature of the 2-liter power unit is that it is more picky about the quality of the fuel being poured.
There is also a 2.4 liter, but it differs slightly from the 2-liter structurally. There are also diesels - 2 liters and 2.2 for 177 liters. With. Diesel engines are no different from similar engines from other manufacturers. It is better to change the oil every 7 thousand kilometers. A timing chain is installed, the replacement of which is very individual.
Driving performance
Front wheel drive, electric power steering. On the center console - a monitor, separate climate control, wood inserts. Standard dashboard. The steering wheel is adjustable for tilt and reach. On the steering wheel - control switching channels and the sound of the audio system, a display button that displays consumption, mileage and speed. The box is a five-speed mechanics, the same automatic machine was also installed.
Results
As the test drive of Toyota Avensis 2007 - 2008 showed, this is a fairly reliable car that is normally controlled. It makes no sense to spin the engine much, because even from the bottom it rides in any gear. Toyota Avensis 2008 has soft suspension. There are no special questions. It is perfect for driving no special questions. It is perfect for every day riding.
Video
A video review of the car can be viewed below.
We did not expect this Avensis. No, he did not disappoint in any way. It just turned out to be completely different, so unlike our forecasts. What did we expect? For a further evolution of the design ideas embodied in the famous Carina E and so successfully developed in the first generation Avensis. For a well-known progress in terms of serial equipment with a slight increase in price compared to its predecessor. On the appearance of sports modifications so fashionable today. And what is the result?
Let's start with design. The photographs speak for themselves: there is no trace left of "Karina". Another creative throwing, so typical of the Japanese-Korean school? Fortunately, no. Avensis is "dressed" and "haired" in accordance with the new corporate style introduced for the European market. High sides, characteristic forms of doorways, body pillars and head optics allow the car to take its place in the Yaris-Corolla-Camry family. But most of all, the car resembles Toyota's flagship, the Lexus LS430. And those who see the Avensis II for the first time are asking the same question: Is this the new Lexus? No, dear ones. This is not a Lexus. This is Avensis. But frankly "Lexus-like".
The quality of the machine and its equipment plunge into culture shock. Volley direct fire on the German and Swedish classmates! Huge wheels and the deadly glow of xenon light cause others to respect the car. The doors close after a light touch by inertia, with a deaf thoroughbred cotton. The interior is chic: beige leather, two-tone plastic and wood inserts. The materials are selected with excellent taste, the panels fit perfectly, electric drives and microlifts are everywhere. The optitronic instrument panel comes to life with the turn of the ignition key. An approach worthy of a business class sedan!
A true highlight of the noble interior is the dark gray metal center console. Large buttons, inconspicuous displays ... real high-tech! The control of the two-zone air conditioning system and the audio system, which includes a CD player and radio, is concentrated here. By the way, this “music” is a matter of special pride for the creators of the car: great attention was paid to the quality of its sound. After listening to several CDs, I got the following impression. Indeed, the capabilities of the audio system are incomparable with what has been heard in budget Japanese models. The "transparency" and structure of the upper register is a great pleasure when listening to classical music and jazz. Electronic and pop music sounds good. However, the realism of the reproduction of dance and rock music is out of the question due to weak, indistinct basses. No dynamics, no drive. But this is not a tragedy: it seems that the matter can be fixed with an elementary installation of an amplifier and a subwoofer without replacing the "assembly" audio system.
And more about equipment. The new Avensis can easily be called a bastion of safety. For the first time, a "D"-class car received nine pillows, one of which protects the driver's knees. The brakes are more reliable than ever: they are controlled by several electronic systems, led by a VDC stabilization system. Moreover, the driver is allowed to turn off only the traction control function.
About the price policy. Of the entire range, we are supplied with a sedan and station wagon with 1.8- and two-liter gasoline engines. There are two levels of equipment: quite rich Sol and Executive, where "all inclusive". We decided not to sell hatchbacks, as well as cars with 1.6-liter engines and in the basic configuration, because they were not in great demand before. Diesels are also "past", but already because of the low quality of our "diesel fuel". What is the result?
The "starter" sedan 1.8 Sol with "mechanics" costs $22,900. The Avensis Executive you see in the pictures, with its two-litre, sequential automatic and all sorts of useful equipment from the rear window blind to the VDC, is already $29,900. Does it bite? In any case, in comparison with the first generation model, the rise in price is significant. It seems that Japanese cars are gradually losing one of their main advantages over Europeans - attractive prices. Having accustomed us to quality, now they teach us to pay for it. There is another point. In the Russian line of the Toyota brand between the "neighboring" Corolla and Avensis models, an abyss of $ 10,000 has now formed (the difference in prices for basic configurations). An area vulnerable to attack by competitors.
And what is the new Avensis in business? Is it possible that radical changes have taken place in this direction, and the car has lost that amazing smoothness that its predecessor was famous for? The mere sight of low-profile tires forces you to prepare for the worst. However, after a few hundred meters, all far-fetched disappointments dissipate without a trace. In terms of the comfort of movement in space, I would like to compare Avensis with Mercedes - if not with the 210th, then certainly with the 124th. The car responds to transverse seams and cracks with soft slaps of tires, to potholes - with smooth swaying of the body. The noise isolation of the car is so perfect, and the course is so easy that the trip along the highway is perceived only as a flight. The seats are lullingly comfortable, the interior pampers with space: the rear passengers do not feel cramped at all. Class!
Manageability is maintained in the same ideological vein. Responses to the actions of the steering wheel are calmly sedate, which is why the car sometimes seems awkward. But at the same time, the car steers accurately, and the algorithm for changing the feedback does not raise questions. However, the "first" Avensis did not differ in sportiness.
The only misunderstanding is the weak power supply of the car. Sharpened to Euro 4 environmental standards, the engine with direct fuel injection shows acceptable vigor only at high speeds, however, very "long" gears of the "automatic" limit these capabilities as well. Start from a place occurs briskly, without tension, but in the following gears, acceleration is very anemic. Moreover, overtaking at speeds above 120 km / h is difficult, since a sharp press on the gas pedal for a long time does not give any result.
Rescues only manual switching mode, the usefulness of which on this machine is difficult to underestimate. Firstly, it allows the engine to immediately enter the "combat" range of 4000-6000 rpm, and secondly, it does not allow the box to automatically engage the next gear upon reaching the red zone of the tachometer. This is the only way to ensure an acceptable level of dynamics.
So in one generation, Avensis stepped from workhorses almost into business sedans. But maybe you should not be luxurious, but choose a simpler, cheaper version? In the next issue, we will talk about what the most "basic" Anensis is ready to please the buyer with.
With the release of a new generation of Toyota Avensis, a new task was set for the Russian representative office of Toyota, namely, how to breed a novelty with a popular Camry model on the market. In Europe, everything is simpler: Avensis is the most flagship there, because Toyota Camry is not sold on the European market. In our country, on the contrary, the Japanese business sedan leads in sales in its class. Last but not least, this was achieved through the opening of a Toyota plant in St. Petersburg, where the Toyota Camry is produced.
In general, the design of the new Avensis was adjusted to the current corporate identity of Toyota. The radiator grille makes the novelty similar to the Camry. Headlights are new. It is they who make the appearance of the front end too overloaded. In profile, a powerful muscular silhouette with a strongly inclined front strut and a large stamping from below is solid.
Nevertheless, the previous Avensis won the recognition of Russian motorists for its classic appearance, traditional Toyota high-quality performance, comfort, reliability and safety. But with the release of the same Camry, the top versions of the second generation Toyota Avensis lost significantly in sales. What will happen now? Will the new Avensis take away the audience from the heavily established Camry in Russia?
The rear view is pure Lexus.
And so, we tested a brand new Toyota Avensis in the top-end "Lux" version, equipped with a 2.0-liter engine and a Multidrive-S CVT. To be honest, when I first saw the new Avensis in the photo, it didn’t make much of an impression on me. However, with “live contact”, the Japanese sedan looks a little different. In general, the design of the novelty was adjusted to the current corporate identity of Toyota. The radiator grille makes Avensis related… yes, yes, it is with Camry. Headlights are new. It is they who make the appearance of the front end too overloaded. In profile, a powerful muscular silhouette with a strongly inclined front strut and a large stamping from below is solid. Well, the rear view is pure Lexus.
The conservative front panel does not shine with design sophistication, but the materials used are entirely soft and solid. The texture of the plastic disguised as a tree is successfully chosen. The build quality is top notch, but the ergonomics are not without a flaw - the front seats lack lateral support and height adjustment range.
With an equal wheelbase, the new Avensis added 5 cm in length and width. As a result, the interior has become even more spacious. Due to the virtual absence of a central tunnel, the three of us can safely ride at the back - there is enough space in the legs and shoulders. At the same time, the volume of the trunk is an impressive 509 liters.
The conservative front panel does not shine with design sophistication, but the materials used are entirely soft and solid. The texture of plastic disguised as wood is well chosen (in the description of the configuration, this finish is called the mysterious phrase “takesumi style”, which means bamboo charcoal). Build quality is top notch. The front seats lack lateral support and height adjustment range. In the top-end "Lux" version, Avensis is equipped with a servo drive for the front seats and a steering column with memory. The optitronnaya instrument panel has good information content and a pleasant orange backlight. Between the two dials there are two displays that display the readings of the on-board computer, fuel and coolant levels, as well as the current automatic transmission mode.
The 2.0-liter version with CVT starts without delay, but too smoothly and imposingly. It's time to take a nap here. According to the passport, the 152-horsepower Toyota is gaining 100 km / h in 10 seconds, and the 1.8-liter version with manual transmission is 0.6 seconds faster.
A large screen is located on the center console, which is responsible for fully Russified navigation, Bluetooth connection with a mobile phone, various car settings and an audio system that supports all conceivable formats, as well as equipped with a 10 GB hard drive. A little lower, they settled a dual-zone climate control unit and two knobs responsible for heating the seats.
On the Russian market, the new Toyota Avensis is presented with three petrol engines of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 liters. Avensis also has diesels, but according to the already established tradition, their way to Russia is still ordered. The Japanese are still afraid of the quality of our diesel fuel.
In general, the "top" Toyota Avensis is packed in full. In addition to the above, it is possible to note swivel bi-xenon headlights, electronic handbrake, keyless entry and engine start, multifunctional steering wheel with automatic transmission manual paddles, leather interior, cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/55 R17 tires, rear camera view, 7 airbags, as well as rain and light sensors. An impressive list, isn't it? Not every premium Avensis classmate can boast of such a set, not to mention direct competitors.
The initial cost of Toyota Avensis with a 1.6-liter engine and manual transmission is 819,500 rubles. For comparison, the "basic" Camry with the best set of equipment costs 853 thousand rubles. And the top copy that we tested will cost 1,387,000 rubles, which is 114 (!) thousand rubles more expensive than the top 277-horsepower Camry with a similar list of options.
On the Russian market, the new Toyota Avensis is presented with three petrol engines of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 liters. Avensis also has diesels, but according to the already established tradition, their way to Russia is still ordered. The Japanese are still afraid of the quality of our diesel fuel. And I understand them.
There is a large screen on the center console, which is responsible for fully Russified navigation, Bluetooth connection with a mobile phone, various car settings and an audio system that supports all conceivable formats, and is also equipped with a 10 GB hard drive. Paddles "petals" responsible for manual control of the variator are the prerogative of the 2.0-liter version. Trunk volume is an impressive 509 liters.
Let's get back to gasoline engines. Their main innovation is the development of the famous VVT-i technology, called Valvematic. This system controls the valve timing and valve lift, which has a positive effect on fuel consumption and the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Note that already a 1.6-liter engine without any boost produces 132 hp. This engine is equipped with a manual transmission only.
Someone who wants more powerful can choose between 1.8- and 2.0-liter units that produce 147 and 152 hp. respectively. The one that is more powerful is aggregated only by a CVT with a sports mode, and a 1.8-liter engine can be purchased with any transmission.
The sedan refuels well in a turn, clearly keeps a straight line, ignores rutting. The steering is also without pretensions: as much effort as necessary, and there are no problems with information content. Reliably.
The 2.0-liter version with CVT starts without delay, but too smoothly and imposingly. It's time to take a nap here. According to the passport, the 152-horsepower Toyota is gaining 100 km / h in 10 seconds, and the 1.8-liter version with manual transmission is 0.6 seconds faster. I would like to try "Avensis" on the handle. No, I'm not against the CVT, but with it, the Toyota Avensis is too calm, too smooth, too correct. Without a spark. But there are pluses - the average fuel consumption was about 9 liters per 100 km / m. And this is in a 152-horsepower car with a fairly dynamic movement. The adrenaline rush for the CVT is the manual mode with 7 virtual steps. With the 2.0-litre engine, manual mode can be controlled using the paddles on the steering wheel.
The main innovation of the Toyota Avensis engine range is the development of the famous VVT-i technology, called Valvematic. This system controls the valve timing and valve lift, which has a positive effect on fuel consumption and the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Note that already a 1.6-liter engine without any boost produces 132 hp.
As far as handling is concerned, the same “Toyota” reliability can be traced here. The sedan refuels well in a turn, clearly keeps a straight line, ignores rutting. The steering is also without pretensions: as much effort as necessary, and there are no problems with information content. Reliably. I wonder how many times I repeated the word "reliability" in this text? And this is not a tautology. This is the philosophy of the Toyota brand, and nothing can be done about it. So, I'm looking for something to complain about ... Oh yes, the brakes ... Too sensitive reaction to pressing the pedal. You start to slow down a little, and the Avensis at least henna, but it only takes a little pressure on the pedal, and all the passengers nod their heads in unison.
It's up to the price. And here is another reason for nit-picking. The initial cost of Toyota Avensis with a 1.6-liter engine and manual transmission is 819,500 rubles. For comparison, the "basic" Camry with the best set of equipment costs 853 thousand rubles. And the top copy that we tested will cost 1,387,000 rubles, which is 114 (!) thousand rubles more expensive than the top 277-horsepower Camry with a similar list of options.
With an equal wheelbase, the new Avensis added 5 cm in length and width. As a result, the interior has become even more spacious. Due to the virtual absence of a central tunnel, the three of us can safely ride at the back - there is enough space in the legs and shoulders.
Otherwise, Toyota Avensis is a perfectly balanced car, with excellent finishes, a spacious interior, a huge list of options, a modern engine, excellent safety and, I’m not afraid to say this word, reliable handling. But does this model have a future in Russia? It seems to me that not, at least until the new Toyota Camry appears or until Avensis gets a residence permit at the Russian Toyota plant.
R uslan Galimov
