Avensis Ph. 1 - Views On Upgraded Shock Absorbers / Dampers?

[B3rtie]

I have asked the question before somewhere I think but would like any opinions on different makes of shock absorbers (struts / dampers / whatever) and springs on their Avensis either direct O.E. / aftermarket replacements or upgraded / sportier specification.

It would be useful to hear thoughts from people with Avensis Ph. 2 and Ph. 3s as well.

Something like...

1. Car model / engine size: Avensis Ph. 1 hatchback 2.0 petrol
   
2. Strut make / Model: Toyota all-round
   
3. Springs make / model: Toyota all-round
   
4. Miles travelled: 160k so far but leaking since 135k and front springs have gone soft. Might get them past the MOT tester next year as still pass a bounce test, though nearly shot.
   
5. Driving style and roads: Mixed driving steady on motorways and spirited driving on country roads
   
6. Comments on characteristics: Standard set up is nice for cuising, though a bit fidgety on undulating surfaces, feels lively but not overly so. Definately under-damped. Road-holding and handling good but roll-stiffness poor. Considering Koni Special 'Red' / TTE as a minor upgrade.
   
7. Other products used: Monroe dampers with a very low 25% uprated springs (Escort 3), Koni 'Yellow' on standard springs (Escort 3), Spax sport kit (Escort 4). Generally found the Monroe (Gasmatic) to be over-lively with standard springs and taught with uprated springs. Konis feel heavily damped and researve for very enthusiastic driving but OK on softest setting with standard spring rates. Spax Sport kit great all-round but a little harsh at low speed and spring coils knocked together occasionally.
   

..... if we do this then it might be useful to some of the others who might be interested later.

Thanks very much in advance.

[B3rtie]

Having just seen a cloud of dust and tumble weed blow accross my screen I thought I might kick this off......... See above - I love replying to my own posts!