Diesel Avensis or petrol Corolla?

Hi there,

I’ve had a 1.4 petrol, three-door 2000 Toyota Corolla for years, but I need to change it and I’m looking at a 1.4 petrol five-door 2010 Toyota Corolla or a 2.0 diesel five-door 2011 Toyota Avensis. They're similar mileage with the Avensis slightly more expensive, but the tax is more on the Corolla. I don’t do a lot of mileage but my husband commutes and could take my car occasionally.

Denise Murphy (Rhode)

Mar 2020 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Denise,

If you’re not doing big miles every week, then the diesel Avensis just makes no sense (other than the fact that it’s a bit bigger and comfier than the Corolla). With relatively low mileage you’re much better off with a petrol engine, and besides — even if your husband is using it occasionally for longer runs — that Toyota 1.4 engine is very economical so I think the Corolla is the best choice here.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe