Faults:

Exhaust, suspension, brakes, all wear and tear.

Engine uses a bit of oil, but only a small amount (no leaks, so must be burning it off), one top up between services, common issues on these Toyota petrol engines from this time.

Sub frame rust is another common issue - thankfully when I purchased the car the previous owner had replaced/repaired this before I got the car.

General Comments:

The Avensis is a nice car to drive. My car is black and looks good in my opinion.

Very comfortable and spacious, the TR model has plenty of electrics. Seats are nice, sound proofing is good on the motorway, very smooth at cruising speed. Electronic parking brake took a lot of getting used to!

1.6 petrol engine is a lot less common than the diesels or the 1.8 petrol. It is economical - averaging 40 mpg or more, but it is very, very slow. I'd go for the 1.8 if buying again or a more powerful and economical diesel. This is not a bad engine, just a bit of a budget choice; I believe it was the cheapest engine model in this car when new.

On the used market they are still a little more expensive to buy than an equivalent Vauxhall Insignia or Ford Mondeo, but worth it in my opinion - this is a slightly better car than those in my opinion.

Overall not a bad car, lives up to its name - reliable and economical so far, hope to keep it a long time despite the fact it is 13 years old now! Look for a car with full history and low miles and you cannot go wrong with a used purchase.

Faults:

ABS sensor.

Armrest broke.

Needed a new shock absorber.

Brakes weak, will need new discs and pads soon.

General Comments:

Very nice to drive. The Avensis handles very well.

Get the 1.8 petrol, it is a great engine and more reliable than the diesels. You can also get a steady 40 - 42 mpg if you drive well.

Very nice in dark metallic grey. Good looking from sides and back. Front grille and lights are a bit odd, but I like this 2009 - 2011 shaped car better than any updated models.

T2 model is very basic - go for the TR models or above. I do have climate control and front electric windows though - good enough for me.

Give it the oil changes it needs and drive carefully, and you have one of the most reliable second hand cars you can get for the money. Look for a nice low mileage example as well. Plenty on the market.

Faults:

Really just wear and tear, never broke down. Last MOT advised there was some rust underneath however. Not normally a concern unless it gets really bad, but the car has had a hard life and is now 13 years old.

General Comments:

The Avensis is not a great looking car, but inherits all the strengths of the Avensis and Carina from years gone by. Toyota know how to make a large family car that is durable and reliable.

Comfortable, spacious, the TR model is common, mid range car with enough electrics.

1.8 has decent power and averages 40 mpg.

A fine vehicle to taxi or use as a family run around. Costs are reasonable and the car is reliable.

Faults:

Besides the usual consumables, just maintenance. Follow the service schedule and this car won't let you down.

General Comments:

Reliable, safe, smooth, cheap enough to run, what more could you want in an everyday car?

The Avensis won't win any awards in the looks department, it is dull. Inside is also very grey and not exciting. But it is a typical Japanese mass produced car, so do not expect anything else. Quiet and smooth that is all I want. Controls are laid out well.

1.8 has plenty of power and can average 40 mpg.

Buy a looked after one and you have bought reliability, I can see myself keeping this for many more years to come despite the mileage getting higher.