We say The new Avensis looks better inside and out, retains its bullet-proof build quality - and it's reassuring dullness.Performance There are four engines available on the new Avensis and Toyota has ditched the 2.4-litre unit that previously topped the range. The fastest engine in the line-up now is a 2.2-litre 180bhp D-4D diesel unit. It clears 60mph in 8.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 137mph. Generally, all models in the line-up offer enough performance but we’d advise bypassing the smaller petrol engines that need to be worked a lot harder than the mid-range diesels.Emissions All diesel engines return decent fuel economy figures and good CO2 emissions figures but the flagship eco-engine is the 2.0-litre 124bhp D-4D diesel. With 124bhp at its disposal the unit can clear 60mph in 9.4 seconds as well as return 62mpg and emit just 119g/lm in CO2 emissions. That makes it an excellent all rounder and the best choice in the range.Driving The last generation Avensis was criticised for its mediocre drive and handling performance and the new generation, despite sporting a more distinct look, hasn’t changed its spots in that sense as well. It’s still quite dull to drive and favours comfort over enjoyment and falls behind some of its mainstream competitors as a result.Feel The diesel engines are ideally suited to cruising, as is the Avensis on the whole thanks to a soft suspension setup that absorbs everything the UK’s pock-marked roads can throw at it.Space The saloon comes with a 509-litre boot which is bigger than the likes of the Volkswagen Passat and Honda Accord. There’s also enough room for five adults with lots of head and legroom throughout.Equipment The Avensis is comprehensively equipped and comes with the usual mix of CD players, air conditioning and electric mirrors as standard. Further up the range and more exclusive options are available, especially if you plump for the £3,000 TR cost option.Price With the flagship diesel engine, the Avensis returns decent fuel economy figures and is relatively cheap to run for a large saloon. It’s also extremely reliable so there shouldn’t be too much in the way or maintenance and running costs either. In terms of list price, the Avensis saloon starts at around £18,000 and peaks at just under £27,000, which is about average in the segment.Quality There should be no issues with the Avensis in terms of quality. Its engine range will not throw up any problems and the interior is extremely well put together and features more soft-touch materials and surfaces than the previous generation. The cabin itself is also a lot sleeker and more stylish without ever challenging the segment leaders in terms of design and layout.Safety The Avensis is a very safe car with ABS and traction control as standard, as well as a long list of advanced safety technology including plenty of adult occupant protection systems. There are seven airbags in total.Pros The Avensis is a decent saloon and an honest rival to the more popular alternatives on the market. It’s incredibly reliable, comfort and spacious which makes for an ideal motorway cruiser. The latest generation is also far sleeker and more stylish than itCons The new Avensis has the same problems as its predecessor in the sense that it’s still boring to drive.Alternatives Mazda 6, Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Vectra, Honda Accord
