Which Avensis?

[Anatonic]

Hey guys,

First post and a bit of a silly question really but I'm looking for advice on which Avensis model to look at as my next car purchase.

To cut a long story short - I've had my recent 'flit' with a few cars from a Focus ST to a Honda Civic Type R, but circumstances mean I really ought to look at a sensible motor as my commute is going up to 120 miles per day as of February. My parents have always run Toyota's - around 3 Avensis' - and never had any real problems, with cheap and reliable motoring. I looked at something like a Mondeo ST diesel and Audi A4's but to be honest I just much prefer something comfy and that is going to be cheaper to run and service, including some care and attention from myself (oil / filter changes).

In terms of my budget and requirements, I'm probably looking to spend between £3000 - £5000 (I'm currently selling my Civic Type R). In terms of the other points:

- I do around 15 - 20k miles a year

- Not bothered whether it's a saloon or tourer - I'll go for whatever the best deal is

- I (may) have the requirement to tow a motorbike or single seater race car on a trailer in future (around 850-1000kgs)

- I'm not too fussed about factory Sat Nav (I have a TomTom) but parking sensors may be useful?

As you can see I'm looking for a compromise on economy (mpg and tax) and also ability. I don't want to get a lower model for the extremely low tax band, only to find it makes a poor tow vehicle because of a gutless engine. And again, I'm not sure if the petrol or diesel is going to be better for my circumstances. I'm leaning to a diesel for the torque and towing ability, and I'm aware there are some issues with the EGR valve cacking up (had the same on an old Megane). But I reckon cleaning that and also popping in some BG244 (brilliant for diesel engines and really does work!) will help no end with a higher mileage diesel engine.

What are peoples opinions on the stereo? Can the headunit and Speakers be upgraded? I used to run a hardwired Dension IceLink in my old Focus with a Brodit ProClip and mount which worked great. I also may look at retrofitting bluetooth hands free - any recommendations would be welcome.

[Mistermena]

Hey guys,

First post and a bit of a silly question really but I'm looking for advice on which Avensis model to look at as my next car purchase.

To cut a long story short - I've had my recent 'flit' with a few cars from a Focus ST to a Honda Civic Type R, but circumstances mean I really ought to look at a sensible motor as my commute is going up to 120 miles per day as of February. My parents have always run Toyota's - around 3 Avensis' - and never had any real problems, with cheap and reliable motoring. I looked at something like a Mondeo ST diesel and Audi A4's but to be honest I just much prefer something comfy and that is going to be cheaper to run and service, including some care and attention from myself (oil / filter changes).

In terms of my budget and requirements, I'm probably looking to spend between £3000 - £5000 (I'm currently selling my Civic Type R). In terms of the other points:

- I do around 15 - 20k miles a year

- Not bothered whether it's a saloon or tourer - I'll go for whatever the best deal is

- I (may) have the requirement to tow a motorbike or single seater race car on a trailer in future (around 850-1000kgs)

- I'm not too fussed about factory Sat Nav (I have a TomTom) but parking sensors may be useful?

As you can see I'm looking for a compromise on economy (mpg and tax) and also ability. I don't want to get a lower model for the extremely low tax band, only to find it makes a poor tow vehicle because of a gutless engine. And again, I'm not sure if the petrol or diesel is going to be better for my circumstances. I'm leaning to a diesel for the torque and towing ability, and I'm aware there are some issues with the EGR valve cacking up (had the same on an old Megane). But I reckon cleaning that and also popping in some BG244 (brilliant for diesel engines and really does work!) will help no end with a higher mileage diesel engine.

What are peoples opinions on the stereo? Can the headunit and speakers be upgraded? I used to run a hardwired Dension IceLink in my old Focus with a Brodit ProClip and mount which worked great. I also may look at retrofitting Bluetooth hands free - any recommendations would be welcome.

Hi Matt and welcome to TOC

I think if you're going to be doing that kind of milage I'd have to say go for an oil burner. With around the 3-5K to spend I'd be looking at someting like a 56 plate TR 2.2 150bhp to have that towing power you'd need for the bike ect. Or maybe something like this... eBay Item number: 250952990399 or Item number: 140662270621

What I would say is try and get the estate version as in my opinion look far better than the saloon. Parking sensors are a must on the estate. Get a car with a full Toyota (If you can) service history and below the 112k extended warranty limit for the dredded headgasket and EGR valve issues. That way if something does go wrong you can call on Mr T fantastic goodwill gesture that is in place. Or a car that has had a new engine fitted as these cost around the £6,500 but still check for coolant loss/black tinge/white splatter marks on engine cover.

BG244 helps in my view (Others on here think its Snake oil) and also running on Shell V-Power derv. To get more mpg a tuning box (Piggy-back) like the one that member "Kingo" (PartsKing) sells get very good member review as do the Tunit boxes. I gained 12mpg ( @ 70mph (6th gear) with cruise on) extra with mine on the Motorway and you can pick up some boxes second hand for around the £150 mark. Using a performance air filter will also help as will Mobil 1 ESP 5w-30 engine oil.

Sound system in my T-180 is fab tbh. I like the sat nav that comes with it but a Garmen or a TomTom is far better. The Avensis comes with 9 air bags (2 are knee) and scored 5* on the NCAP test so its as safe as they come. This is a TSB that could come in handy in the future! But I hope not!... http://www.toyotaown...attach_id=10737

Anymore questions just ask away as there are a lot of folks on here willing to help out

Hope this helps

Taff

[Anatonic]

Thanks Taff - great info!

I'll ensure to maybe even look to extend my budget a touch if it means getting a decent car that is going to last me. Useful to know about the goodwill warranty for problematic engines and it certainly seems like the 150 / 180 will give me the power required for towing. Is there a noticeable difference in MPG between the 150/180 power units?

This T180 seems great:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2007-57-Toyota-Avensis-Estate-2-2-D-4D-Diesel-T180-/180758452110?pt=Automobiles_UK&hash=item2a160b178e#ht_1391wt_1396

Has most of the kit on it, still within the extended warranty limits and is the nicer looking estate! I'm not 100% sold on the colour yet, but it's not the end of the world and just keeping an eye out for a bargain will be my main aim over the next month or so.

[Heidfirst]

Is there a noticeable difference in MPG between the 150/180 power units?

yes, the T180 is fitted with a DPF which works by injecting fuel into it to burn off the particulate.

In the real world you are probably looking at a good 5mpg+ difference between the 150 & 180bhp engines (in the 150's favour).

[t-spiritpete]

Is there a noticeable difference in MPG between the 150/180 power units?

yes, the T180 is fitted with a DPF which works by injecting fuel into it to burn off the particulate.

In the real world you are probably looking at a good 5mpg+ difference between the 150 & 180bhp engines (in the 150's favour).

I would go for the 2.2 150bhp and then get a tuning box from Partsking which will take the 150 up to around 180bhp plus better mpg without the problems of the DPF etc that the T180 has.

Good luck with your search

Pete.

[cabcurtains]

If you want a 2.2 150 with sensible mileage it will be more expensive than the OP's original budget, break out the cash

Just read the write up on the eBay 180:

The awesome 2.2 Diesel engine produces 175 BHP and 50+ MPG thanks mainly to the 6 speed gearbox, got to love the motor trade

Its all about the gearbox dont ya know

[Mistermena]

Thanks Taff - great info!

I'll ensure to maybe even look to extend my budget a touch if it means getting a decent car that is going to last me. Useful to know about the goodwill warranty for problematic engines and it certainly seems like the 150 / 180 will give me the power required for towing. Is there a noticeable difference in MPG between the 150/180 power units?

This T180 seems great:

http://www.ebay.co.u...#ht_1391wt_1396

Has most of the kit on it, still within the extended warranty limits and is the nicer looking estate! I'm not 100% sold on the colour yet, but it's not the end of the world and just keeping an eye out for a bargain will be my main aim over the next month or so.

I find myself in agreement with other posters on here regarding the D-CAT on the T-180 is at best a pain in the butt when it goes wrong and the cost of putting it right can be massive. But even after all the problems (That I've had) I still love the power and torque of the Polish built 177 power unit. All the 2.0 and 2.2L oil burners can suffer with the EGR valve and the head gasket issues! So its a case of you pays your money and takes your chance!

The T-180 comes fully loaded with all the toys like electric leather seats ect which I love coming from an Audi A6 3.2! And I prefer the Avensis to that car any day of the week. But saying that it could be a wise option to go for a 150bhp and bolt on a piggy-back tuning box to bring the power (And torque) somewhere upto the T-180 unit.

The link for the eBay car looks to much money in my eyes! You can pick one up for less than £5,500 if you do some digging with around the 70k mark on the clock and the color is something I'd not go for in that car. I think the best color is the Gun Metal Grey and with the TNS 9010 built in sat nav and not the one that pops out of the dash, although for security it better as the boys cant see that piece of kit, but they can see the in-dash one...

BTW... If you go and test drive a T-180 do it when the engine is cold and see if you can get it into 1st gear easily and if it crunches into 2nd! Problems with the triple synco on the box it may have. !Removed! hell... I'm starting to sound like Yoda again!

[Mistermena]

If you want a 2.2 150 with sensible mileage it will be more expensive than the OP's original budget, break out the cash

Just read the write up on the Ebay 180:

The awesome 2.2 Diesel engine produces 175 BHP and 50+ MPG thanks mainly to the 6 speed gearbox, got to love the motor trade

Its all about the gearbox dont ya know

Lmao... I wish I could get 50+mpg out of it! Especially round town And I'd drive it in 6th gear at 30mph to do so! Hahahaha

[Uncle Buck]

How interesting that you mention the 2nd gear crunch Taff - mine does that when it's cold, but absolutely fine when warmed-up. Because I know it's there, I now change from 1st to 2nd slowly to avoid it crunching. I guess the 1st owner wasn't quite so kind ....

[Mistermena]

How interesting that you mention the 2nd gear crunch Taff - mine does that when it's cold, but absolutely fine when warmed-up. Because I know it's there, I now change from 1st to 2nd slowly to avoid it crunching. I guess the 1st owner wasn't quite so kind ....

This is a fault with a lot of these boxes! Some even crunch into 3rd and 4th! So I think I;m lucky that its only on 2nd when its dead cold!

Try changing the box oil to Silkolen Pro SRG 75w ( Ester oil) grade. I found this to make a massive difference. On sale on Opie Oils. Fuchs make the same oil but its more expesive and the same stuff as Silkolene that are owned by Fuchs

[Uncle Buck]

Brilliant - just made a note of that for future reference, thanks ! :)

[calamara]

Hey guys,

First post and a bit of a silly question really but I'm looking for advice on which Avensis model to look at as my next car purchase.

To cut a long story short - I've had my recent 'flit' with a few cars from a Focus ST to a Honda Civic Type R, but circumstances mean I really ought to look at a sensible motor as my commute is going up to 120 miles per day as of February. My parents have always run Toyota's - around 3 Avensis' - and never had any real problems, with cheap and reliable motoring. I looked at something like a Mondeo ST diesel and Audi A4's but to be honest I just much prefer something comfy and that is going to be cheaper to run and service, including some care and attention from myself (oil / filter changes).

In terms of my budget and requirements, I'm probably looking to spend between £3000 - £5000 (I'm currently selling my Civic Type R). In terms of the other points:

- I do around 15 - 20k miles a year

- Not bothered whether it's a saloon or tourer - I'll go for whatever the best deal is

- I (may) have the requirement to tow a motorbike or single seater race car on a trailer in future (around 850-1000kgs)

- I'm not too fussed about factory Sat Nav (I have a TomTom) but parking sensors may be useful?

As you can see I'm looking for a compromise on economy (mpg and tax) and also ability. I don't want to get a lower model for the extremely low tax band, only to find it makes a poor tow vehicle because of a gutless engine. And again, I'm not sure if the petrol or diesel is going to be better for my circumstances. I'm leaning to a diesel for the torque and towing ability, and I'm aware there are some issues with the EGR valve cacking up (had the same on an old Megane). But I reckon cleaning that and also popping in some BG244 (brilliant for diesel engines and really does work!) will help no end with a higher mileage diesel engine.

What are peoples opinions on the stereo? Can the headunit and speakers be upgraded? I used to run a hardwired Dension IceLink in my old Focus with a Brodit ProClip and mount which worked great. I also may look at retrofitting Bluetooth hands free - any recommendations would be welcome.

[calamara]

Hi Anatomic,

There is no doubt that this is THE best place to get advice regarding which Avensis to buy, and to just add my small bit of info for you, have you considered buying at British Car Auctions ?

I bought my avensis 2.0 d4d T2 124bhp 07reg from bca/manchester 2 years ago,and I wouldn,t part with it for a gold clock, their webb site is fantastic, just register for free,and start your search. good luck.

calamara

[Heidfirst]

What are peoples opinions on the stereo? Can the headunit and speakers be upgraded? I used to run a hardwired Dension IceLink in my old Focus with a Brodit ProClip and mount which worked great. I also may look at retrofitting Bluetooth hands free - any recommendations would be welcome.

Radio reception can be a bit iffy - this is usually put down to the aerial being in one of the rear windows.

My car has the TNS700/B9010 combined satnav & radio/cd player. imo sound quality is perfectly adequate.

[Anatonic]

Thanks guys - some really great info to get my search started and I fully agree with the pay your money and take your chance - all I can do is try my best to find an example which is well looked after and limit any chances of work needing doing.

Have to admit I've never bought at auction and have never looked into it - never thought of it as a viable way to purchase a car and perhaps that's because I don't know how it works. I've also always been under the assumption that cars sent to auction are usually those that cannot be sold by dealerships as they're losing money on their forecourt not selling so they take a hit and send them off to be auctioned. Usually less desirable / higher mileage / older cars? I'll certainly look though!

Tuning box sounds like a decent shout on a 150 - I take it then by the reference of tuning boxes and piggybacking that the ECU cannot be remapped? I know some cars are impossible to get access to the ECU software (I know my CTR requires a diff ECU if you want a remap) whereas others you can quite happily get it on a rolling road and map the standard ECU for better power and MPG.

After some looking I really do like the gun metal grey tourer / estate - looks the best IMO and after looking in the flesh I can't get on with the champagne / bronze colour at all. I'd settle for black or silver... But it's not the be all and end all! :)

I like the seats and the toys in the T180 - but having sat in a 150, I felt the seats were very comfy and the ride was great - which I guess anything would be after coming from my spine shattering CTR - wow is it nice to go down a road without having to make a dentist appointment to replace the fillings shaken from my mouth!!

[Mistermena]

Thanks guys - some really great info to get my search started and I fully agree with the pay your money and take your chance - all I can do is try my best to find an example which is well looked after and limit any chances of work needing doing.

Have to admit I've never bought at auction and have never looked into it - never thought of it as a viable way to purchase a car and perhaps that's because I don't know how it works. I've also always been under the assumption that cars sent to auction are usually those that cannot be sold by dealerships as they're losing money on their forecourt not selling so they take a hit and send them off to be auctioned. Usually less desirable / higher mileage / older cars? I'll certainly look though!

Tuning box sounds like a decent shout on a 150 - I take it then by the reference of tuning boxes and piggybacking that the ECU cannot be remapped? I know some cars are impossible to get access to the ECU software (I know my CTR requires a diff ECU if you want a remap) whereas others you can quite happily get it on a rolling road and map the standard ECU for better power and MPG.

After some looking I really do like the gun metal grey tourer / estate - looks the best IMO and after looking in the flesh I can't get on with the champagne / bronze colour at all. I'd settle for black or silver... But it's not the be all and end all! :)

I like the seats and the toys in the T180 - but having sat in a 150, I felt the seats were very comfy and the ride was great - which I guess anything would be after coming from my spine shattering CTR - wow is it nice to go down a road without having to make a dentist appointment to replace the fillings shaken from my mouth!!

Glad that the folks on here were able to give you some insite to buying and owning an Avensis. The Denso ECU is so well encrypted that you just cant re-map it as yet! no doult someone will in the future. I've bought many cars from auction over the years and got some amazing deals, just dont go on a sat morning or the evenings as thats when the rubbish tends to get put through. Best time is to go on a week day when all the dealers go.

I've got the gun mental grey estste and looked long and hard to find one that fitted the bill with parking sensors. This was one that went on eBay a while back but cheap for the money even thought it had Star Ship milage on... http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/170713992119?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

I think you'd be wise to avoid the D-CAT version that could cost a few notes to fix if the DPF goes on it as a member on here is finding out atm. Take a search for TUNIT boxes on eBay as these are £485 new and I bought my 2 for £130 and £150 each and had the remaining 2 years warranty left on them. Dan at Tunit is very helpful and these boxes are the only ones (Afaik) that have a drive train warranty.

Well good luck with the search for an Avensis and let us know how you get on

[Red diesel]

Id also be inclined to look at other cars - Avensis is a good car, but there are plenty of other cars worth looking at.

Volvo V70 D5 and Mondeo 2.2 Ghia TDCI (if you can find one with the injectors and DMF done)for example.

The other thing not addressed so far is that yes if the car is less than 7 years old and less than 112 000 miles Toyota will fix the head gasket

issue if it occours. But if you bought one now with 100 k miles (and lets be realistic - its diesel so theres a very good chance it will have

that level of miles and more) and it fails outside the 112 000 mile or 7 year limit - what then.

A good V70 will do the job imo and the Electronic trottle issues are a petrol only issue (fixed on post 02 cars in any case)and reports ive read

are suggesting that the D5 will do high mileages okay. The only thing to note is that Euro 3 D5s are better than Euro 4s because Euro 4s have DPFs (like the D Cat Avensis) and appearently do 10 mpg less. However Euro 3s are very economical for a 2.4 - appearently doing mid 40s to early 50s fuel consumption. I can't verify this but this is what D5 owners are claiming on the net.

The 2.0 diesel Avensis is a good car and capable of high miles - but i think it would struggle with the towing - a 2.2 engine like the bigger Avensis diesel engine or the Mondeo 2.2 or a 2.4 like the Volvo is a better bet

Red diesel

[Anatonic]

Cheers Red!

A D5 engined Volvo is on my 'to look at' list and I've been previously looking at the 2.2 Mondeo ST TDCI. I've been in an S60 D5 before and love the 5-pot diesel - I had for some reason got my head into a fix that the D5s were thirsty for a diesel, but I know as a towing lump those Volvos can lug a lot around!

I'm not in too much of a rush as the Xmas period gets closer but my plan is to spend some time trying to get a drive or ride in a few of the cars and the Avensis models to ensure I'm getting the car that's right for me.

[Mistermena]

Id also be inclined to look at other cars - Avensis is a good car, but there are plenty of other cars worth looking at.

Volvo V70 D5 and Mondeo 2.2 Ghia TDCI (if you can find one with the injectors and DMF done)for example.

The other thing not addressed so far is that yes if the car is less than 7 years old and less than 112 000 miles Toyota will fix the head gasket

issue if it occours. But if you bought one now with 100 k miles (and lets be realistic - its diesel so theres a very good chance it will have

that level of miles and more) and it fails outside the 112 000 mile or 7 year limit - what then.

A good V70 will do the job imo and the Electronic trottle issues are a petrol only issue (fixed on post 02 cars in any case)and reports ive read

are suggesting that the D5 will do high mileages okay. The only thing to note is that Euro 3 D5s are better than Euro 4s because Euro 4s have DPFs (like the D Cat Avensis) and appearently do 10 mpg less. However Euro 3s are very economical for a 2.4 - appearently doing mid 40s to early 50s fuel consumption. I can't verify this but this is what D5 owners are claiming on the net.

The 2.0 diesel Avensis is a good car and capable of high miles - but i think it would struggle with the towing - a 2.2 engine like the bigger Avensis diesel engine or the Mondeo 2.2 or a 2.4 like the Volvo is a better bet

Red diesel

Hi Red...

Ummm... I think I covered the headgasket issues on reply #2 with a copy of the TOC which covers both the gasket and EGR valve But after that 112k thats the cut off and you're on your own! unless you take out Toyota's extended warranty befor the car hits 100k...

[cabcurtains]

If we are heading off topic...i would take a punt at something like this Old BMW as long as it was geniune. Just nice cars the old E34's.

No complex fuel systems here.

[GrahamJH]

Is there a noticeable difference in MPG between the 150/180 power units?

yes, the T180 is fitted with a DPF which works by injecting fuel into it to burn off the particulate.

In the real world you are probably looking at a good 5mpg+ difference between the 150 & 180bhp engines (in the 150's favour).

Ok Guys. What is a DPF on the T180 please?

Thanks

[Konrad C]

Graham,

I hope you are joking?

DPF - Diesel Particulate Filter. It cleans the soot from the exhaust.

Google it or look in Wikipedia.