2009 Toyota Avensis V-Matic T2 1.8 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Generic car

Faults:

Not much, I have had the car a few years and done all services. The car had higher mileage when I bought it a few years ago, and had detailed history with a lot of work already done.

Has the famous oil consumption issue, but it is not excessive. I keep a bottle of oil in the boot for the occasional top up, which is only once or twice between services. But I don't do much mileage these days.

Also watch out for sub frame rust, common MOT failure point on these cars at a good age. It's over £500 for a new sub frame supplied and fitted if they cannot fix by welding it!

General Comments:

The Toyota Avensis is bland and boring. But it is a reliable car (if cared for properly).

In 2021 I bought this 2009 model with already decent mileage on it. I took a chance because I had heard good things about these cars, and it was a nice price. But generally I don't buy cars with too many miles on them.

As it turns out things have been fine. Three years later and no breakdowns. So it has been a good bet.

T2 model is rather basic. The car has wheel trims and won't win any awards for looks, but it is still modern looking for its age.

Inside is very boring also, 90% of the interior is covered with grey plastic everywhere and orange dials greet you on startup. You couldn't get a more generic Japanese interior if you tried. That said, it has enough equipment for me and the seats are comfortable.

The car is OK to drive. The 1.8 petrol engine is not fast but it will get you where you need to go while doing around 35 - 40 MPG.

They are as overpriced as any decent car on the used market, but worth it if you get a good one; like many people I am hanging on to this older car for as long as possible.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st May, 2024

2009 Toyota Avensis D-4D T Spirit 2.2 diesel from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Just a great car

Faults:

Not much in the few years I have had it. Only done 13,000 miles in my ownership, I have given it a couple of services and replaced brake pads and tyres. Exhaust rattling noise needs checked out, but nothing serious.

General Comments:

I got an awesome deal on this car back in 2019. Black metallic with black leather, the T Spirit Avensis is well equipped.

I haven't used it much as I do not drive as much as I used to, but needed a reliable car for retirement. The Avensis ticked all the boxes. Spacious and smooth to drive and economical. I average 50 mpg. 2.2 diesel is fast enough for me.

Interior has all the electrics you would expect from a 2009 car. Love being in it. Even base models are well equipped.

Has a nice modern yet boxy look to it. Not the best looking car, but the right color, wheels and spec make all the difference. OK to drive but nothing special. People always complain about the electronic handbrake, and I agree it is a pain to get used to, but once you do the car is good to drive.

Just classic Toyota really, nothing exciting but a nice reliable car; even older ones with higher mileage.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th November, 2022