The third-generation Avensis was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show which opened last week. Toyota's new European flagship delivers a new level of quality, handling and ride comfort.
The new Avensis will also contribute to a reduction in Toyota's fleet average CO2 emissions to 140g/km by 2009. Toyota's 'Optimal Drive' philosophy has been applied through a range of new petrol engines, upgraded diesel engines and new, advanced transmissions.
It will be available in saloon and Tourer body styles. These were designed in parallel, so the Tourer was designed specifically for its purpose, rather than being a saloon with a raised and stretched rear.
Both versions have a sleek appearance. The bonnet has been lowered, the slim A-pillars flow forwards and the C-pillar is slanted backwards to produce a flowing silhouette. Excellent aerodynamics gives a Cd figure of 0.28 for the saloon and 0.29 for the Tourer, helping reduce CO2 emissions.
It is only 50mm longer than the previous generation model, giving an overall length of 4,695 for the saloon and 4,765 for the Tourer. Both have a 2,700mm wheelbase and are 1,480mm tall - the same height as the current Avensis. Thanks to the new platform, the track has been increased by between 30 and 45mm, while the car's width has grown by 50mm to 1,810mm.
The new Avensis is also more spacious inside. Although overall vehicle height remains unchanged, there is more headroom. Cargo space in the Tourer is more flexible, with cargo rails available to divide and secure separate loads. Fold flat seats have a one-touch folding mechanism to create extra space when needed in both saloon and Tourer.
The new-look instrument panel makes good use of the car's width to emphasise the spacious feel of the interior. This can be further heightened in the Tourer with the option of a panoramic roof.
Materials used in the cabin have been chosen to express prestige and dynamism.
The dashboard trim, in black or grey-beige combination, has a soft-texture grained finish. There is a choice of finishes for the centre console, including black metallic paint and a titanium finish. On higher grade models, the console has a graphic finish inspired by Takesumi - a charcoal made from bamboo.
The new Toyota 'Optimal Drive' philosophy has been applied to the development of new Avensis's engine line-up with a focus on minimising environmental impact while maximising driving pleasure through increased power and torque.
The best example of this is the new Valvematic range of petrol engines, which give 10 to 26 per cent lower CO2 emissions compared to equivalent power plants in the current Avensis.
Power is increased by between three and 20 per cent. Toyota's Valvematic technology helps improve fuel efficiency, power, torque and engine response and reduces CO2 emissions by simultaneously controlling valve timing and lift.
All new Avensis models are fitted with driving indicators to help ensure efficient motoring. The on-board computer has an eco-driving indicator on versions with six-speed automatic and Multidrive S transmissions, showing the driver how efficient his or her driving style is. Manual versions come with a gear shift indicator, which advises the driver on the best timing for up and down gear changes.
A new platform provides an excellent balance of high-speed stability and low speed agility. To enhance performance, both the MacPherson strut front suspension and the double wishbone rear suspension have been re-engineered with improvements in torsional stiffness and roll rigidity. New, large diameter wheels with wider tyres are fitted to further enhance stability and dynamic handling.
A flush underfloor design aids high speed stability, reduces noise and contributes to fuel efficiency through improved aerodynamics.