IT'S constantly billed as the flagship of Toyota's European range, so the Avensis certainly has plenty to live up to.
Does it succeed? Thankfully, yes.
Ok, it's not the fastest, most eye-catching and gadget-driven model on our roads, but the Avensis is an attractive car with plenty of top notch equipment and a price tag that really will turn heads.
The T180 model supplied for the test drive also boasted an impressive performance both in and around town and on the open road. And an added bonus is the Avensis' diesel engine is very economical and environmentally-friendly.
In addition, it has the kind of driving credentials you would more commonly associate with a sports saloon, with a top speed of 137mph and an impressive 0-62mph time of just 8.6 seconds.
The T180 also comes fitted with some extra features, namely smoke-finished 17-inch alloys, smoked glass headlamps and leather upholstery.
Passenger comfort is exceptionally good both front and rear and the driver's seat can be adjusted in numerous directions to find the perfect driving position.
Throughout the cabin, controls and dials are easy to hand and along with the numerous storage compartments scattered throughout, there is a boot capacity that rival companies must look at and think 'if only'.
Despite all that space, excellent all-round visibility means manoeuvring and parking the Avensis is a relatively simple procedure.
And the top-of-the-range features that come as standard are truly impressive too with rain sensing wipers, dusk sensing headlights, cruise control and an anti-glare and light-sensing rear view mirror. All fairly minor features maybe, but items for which many other manufacturers will add a few thousand on the starting price.
Safety features highly at Toyota and all the Avensis models are fitted with anti-lock brakes, brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability control along with numerous airbags.
So, all in all, great value, a great drive and not bad on the looker front either.
FAST FACTS
Toyota Avensis T180 Tourer
Price: £22,515
Mechanical: 177bhp, 2,231cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox.
Max speed: 137mph
0-62mph: 8.6 secs
Combined mpg: 45.6
Insurance group: 12
CO2 emissions: 163g/km
BiK rating: 22%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust