Toyota Avensis Touring Sports estate (2015-2018) - Interior & comfort
Soft suspension makes the Toyota Avensis estate an excellent motorway cruiser
Even though we can’t recommend the Toyota Avensis Touring Sports estate for driving thrills, it could well be what some buyers are looking for. The Avensis has long been a hit for company-car owners thanks to its quiet, comfortable and easygoing nature, which is especially welcome on longer motorway journeys.
All the engines are smooth and highly refined when you’re cruising along, but the diesels are quite a bit louder when pushed hard. The cushioned ride and hushed interior really are the Toyota's strong suits.
Toyota Avensis estate dashboard
The inside of the Avensis estate is more functional than exciting, in keeping with the focus on long-distance cruising rather than having fun around corners. The dash is uncluttered and the buttons are laid out in a straightforward manner, while all the plastics and materials used feel nicely plush and solid.
Equipment
The Avensis is available in three main specification levels: entry-level Active, mid-range Business Edition (with a minor Business Edition Plus variation) and top-of-the-range Excel. The Business Edition is the model we’d go for, as the Excel is a bit too expensive for such an unglamorous car.
The Active comes with basics such as air-conditioning, front electric windows and a leather steering wheel.
When you move up a grade to Business Edition, the extra accessories include climate control, DAB digital radio, touchscreen sat nav and part-leather, part-Alcantara seats. The wheels also get an upgrade to 17-inch alloys.
Excel trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof, memory position seats and a reversing camera.
Options
The £395 Protection Pack, comprising features to protect your car from wear and tear, is available on all trims, while the Parking Pack adds all-round parking sensors.