Toyota Avensis saloon (2015-2018) - Interior & comfort
The Toyota Avensis is quiet and comfortable, but a long boot makes parking quite tricky
The Toyota Avensis saloon is a comfortable car to spend time in. The front and rear seats are all very comfortable and things are improved further by the decent suspension, which is fairly soft and soaks up bumps gently and quietly.
Toyota Avensis dashboard
While many cars these days boast cutting-edge design flourishes inside, the Avensis has an unashamedly traditional design. Its dashboard and gauges are simple to use and read, while the switches feel tough. Some cheap-feeling, scratchy plastics don’t help the ambience. The design is lifted a little, though, by the standard leather steering wheel.
Equipment
Value for money is a Toyota Avensis strong point, with even the entry-level Active trim sporting air-conditioning, alloy wheels, cruise control and front electric windows. However, compared to the other models in the range, it feels a little basic.
We much prefer the Business Edition, which adds 17-inch alloys, as well as Toyota's Touch 2 infotainment system and touchscreen sat-nav, DAB digital radio and a rear-view camera. Part-Alcantara, part-leather seats are thrown in, too. The Business Edition Plus trim costs fractionally more and is pretty much the same, although it does add LED headlights, privacy glass and keyless entry.
The range-topping Excel offers 18-inch alloys, adaptive headlights, power-adjustable heated leather seats and an advanced version of the sat-nav system that has 3D mapping.
Options
The Protection Pack adds mud plates, door sill protectors and a boot liner. The Parking Pack throws in all-round parking sensors and is available on all models. Other options include bigger alloy wheels and various practical pieces of equipment such as bicycle holders and roof racks. Metallic or pearlescent paint is an option on all trim levels.
