Model tested: Toyota Avensis 2.2D-4D T180 hatchback
Price: £21,520
Date tested: August 2007
Road tester: Adrian Hearn

Overall rating: 82%
While the Avensis offers space, practicality and reliability, it has lacked performance and sex appeal. The T180 boasts hot hatch performance in a saloon shell, but with this added oomph, would a buyer choose it over the Mondeo?

1. Looks
Not always seen as the sexiest of cars, our Avensis is a more aggressive-looking beast. The T180 has been treated to bespoke smoked 17-inch alloys and a dark grey front grille. Its discreet sportiness is a definite plus.
7/10

2. Looks inside
There are swathes of leather and Alcantara, the centre console has a touch-screen display and the dials are easy to understand.
7/10

3. Practicality
The Avensis has 510 litres of space while driver and passengers have plenty of legroom. Cubby holders are dotted everywhere and there's a large pocket between the two front seats.
9/10

4. Ride and Handling
Road noise could be improved at motorway speed, but handling is fun and the Avensis can be driven hard through corners without too many worries.
8/10

5. Performance
The 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine produces 175bhp and 295lb/ft of torque to give 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 137mph. The engine and six-speed gearbox are a joy to use; smooth and refined.
9/10

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6. Running Costs
While it's hot hatch quick, the diesel engine averages 46.3mpg and emits just 161g/km of CO2, placing it in VED band D, meaning an annual bill of £165.
8/10

7. Reliability
The Avensis is rated as the 32nd most reliable car in Britain. Toyota come with 12 months' free RAC Roadside Assistance in the UK and Europe.
9/10

8. Safety
The Avensis has nine airbags and a five-star EuroNCAP rating. Electronic brake force distribution and brake assist are standard, while the front seats emit a signal if a belt isn't being worn.
10/10

9. Equipment
The T180 has all-round electric windows, electric mirrors and dual-zone air-conditioning. Buyers can opt for the Protection Pack which includes rear parking sensors, front and rear mudflaps and boot protection.
8/10

10. X-Factor
Family saloons are never the most desirable cars as they're seen for their practicality and comfort over long distances rather than for their coolness and performance. But the divide between fun and sensible has been bridged with the Avensis T180 which is fast, frugal, practical and reliable.
7/10