Considering New Avensis -- Oil And Tyre Pressures

April 20, 2005

Hi, I'm considering a new Avensis 2 litre. On my first test drive the car was pushed around by irregularities in the road surface and also had a tendency to wander off course. Second test drive, different Avensis, no problem. Third test with another car, and directional stability was an issue again.

The second, well-performing car was a mechanic's and it seems that it's well known that Toyota's tyre pressure recommendations are way too low at 2.2 bar. 2.4 or even 2.6 bar seemed to be what was recommended in tests by tyre manufacturers like Nokia for their own tyres on this car. Certainly did the trick. Does anyone know anything about this or have any comments?

Secondly, the oil issue. I currently have a Corolla 1.6 VVT-i and it has never burnt oil in a noticable way (4 years, 40 k). People here seem to agree that the 2 litre doesn't suffer as badly as the 1.8. Is this true or is it because 1.8s are more sold and therefore more talked about? What are the pros and cons of 2 litre vs 1.8? (the hydraulic steering on the 2 litre may be preferable to the electronic stering on the 1.8 for sitting back on the motorway)

And one last point since I'm about to make a purchasing desicion. Is there any reason why I should buy the Primera instead?

Thanks all!