New design

For those who haven’t noticed, Toyota is implementing a new design language. The new Hilux, Fortuner and even the RAV4 all feature this new, bolder and angular design. The Avanza now features the same sort of design. From the front, one can’t miss its rather large grille which is framed by a bold colour coded ‘brow’, which also plays host to the Toyota insignia. This ‘brow’ extends outwards to the sides, meeting the new trapezoidal shaped headlights, creating a strong unified appearance. The rear of the car also features a new design with regards to the rear tail-lights and enlarged rear door garnish for added style. From the side, the Avanza has a more upright front end and a somewhat sleek design, the new designalloy rims also compliment the overall look.

Improved interior

Toyota has given the interior a new, quality feel by adding a classic mono-tone black interior colour scheme throughout which is contrasted by silver panel trim. The majority of which can be found on the centre of the dashboard around the radio and climate controls. This does tend to give the cabin a sense of style. What’s more is the fact that the seats now feature a newer, more modern pattern and are, as one would expect made of durable materials to cope with various situations. There is also a new instrument cluster design and even an Eco indicator which provides feedback to the driver on economical driving. There is also USB/AUX as well as a 12 volt outlet to keep your devices charged.

Practicality

One of the cars biggest selling points is its practicality offering. The Avanza comes with a 7 seat configuration. This new model however has increased convenience thanks to the fact that the 3^rd row is now split. The adjustable 2^nd and 3^rdrow seating of the Avanza makes it possible for owners to configure the interior layout to suit their exact requirements, offering various combinations of passenger and cargo space.

Safety aspects

We all want to know about safety, especially if we are loading our families into the car. Well, the Avanza features ABS as well as Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) as standard on all models. It also has airbags and now features a centre head-rest for the second row of seats. ISOFIX restraint points also feature.

Engines and trim

The Avanza will be available with two engine options, a 1.3-litre and a 1.5-litre. The 1.3-litre engine delivers 70kW with 121Nm of torque and the 1.5-litre delivers a peppy 77kW and 137Nm. There is a choice for an automatic gearbox but I found the 5-speed manual to be just fine really. Toyota is offering different trim levels when it comes to the Avanza range. These include S, SX and TX, the latter being the top of the range model. I spent the weekend with the 1.5-litre TX model. All models feature different trim levels depending on customer wants and needs.

Verdict

After spending a weekend with the Avanza I found it to go about its business of transporting people quite well. My friends enjoyed the rear air-conditioning, especially when it reached close on 35 degrees outside. Boot space, with the 3^rd row of seats folded away was more than enough for all of our bags. Sure, the rear seats were a tad bit hard and the ride was a bit bouncy at times. The Avanza doesn’t compete in an easy segment, cars such as the Honda Mobilio and Suzuki Ertiga are also competing for customers attention. I guess the reason why the Avanza has a 60% market share is because of brand loyalty.

Pricing and line-up

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