How does the older Toyota Avensis compare to the newer one?

Is the older model of the Toyota Avensis as reliable as the new one that came in 2003?

John Kelly (Limerick)

May 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi John,

Short answer? Yes. Utterly solid. The only recurring engine fault we can find with a 1997-2003 Avensis isn't even a fault, it's just a warning to make sure the cambelt has been changed on schedule and that's something you should do with any car.

A lumpy-feeling steering wheel means the column needs re-greasing. A juddering brake pedal means the discs need replacing. Um, that's it. One of the most solid cars ever, but just bear in mind that the age of the model and the fact that they're known to be tough probably means that any you are looking at will have had a lot of abuse. Watch out for builders using them as impromptu vans and the inevitable taxi and minicab use. Let us know if you find a good one though.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe