Toyota has introduced a facelifted Avanza to the SA market.
The exterior design of the new Avanza receives a substantial make-over thanks to the adoption of the new Toyota ‘corporate face’. At the front, a large radiator grille forms the main focal point, framed by a bold colour coded ‘brow’, which also plays host to the Toyota insignia. This ‘brow’ extends outwards to the sides, meeting the new trapezoidal shaped headlights, creating a strong unified appearance.
The lower grille follows the curved shape of the upper grille area, with upswept sides, which terminates in the side air inlets. On TX models, the air inlets also incorporate fog lamps to provide increased visibility.
Moving to the rear, revised rear tail-lights and an enlarged rear door garnish compliment the refreshed image.
On the inside, new interior decor welcomes passengers, exuding an elevated sense of quality. A classic mono-tone black interior colour scheme forms the base of the new interior, creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
Modernised interior panel trim and trendy accent panels are offset against the durable seat fabric with stylised inserts.
The driver is treated to a new instrument cluster, adopting striking amber hued inserts, a silver outer bezel and white night-time illumination for greater visibility and user friendliness.
All models receive a new Eco indicator, to provide feedback to the driver on economical driving – contributing to even better fuel economy.
A new, split 3rd row seat allows passengers to independently adjust the back row seating, affording the user the freedom of multiple configurations. In addition, the 3rd row seats also feature a tumble function to conveniently increase cargo space when so required.
The adjustable 2nd and 3rd row seating of the Avanza make it possible for owners to configure the interior layout to suit their exact requirements, offering various combinations of passenger versus cargo space – a perfect companion for families and all their gear.
Auto Up/Down operation has been incorporated into the driver’s power window, for easier use. A new console tray positioned at the front in close proximity to the 12-volt power outlet, creates a convenient storage space for loose items, within easy reach of driver and front passenger.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) has been added to all models, bolstering the active safety specification of the new Avanza which includes ABS. An anti-theft system with alarm and immobiliser completes the safety specification.
Providing the motivation are two new engines, in 1.3 and 1.5 litre guise. This family of engines is shared with the Etios hatchback, with specific tuning to optimise it for use in the Avanza. The 1.3 litre engine delivers 70 kW with 121 Nm of Torque, with the 1.5 litre delivering a perky 77 kW and 137 Nm.
Fuel economy is improved with a frugal 6.1 l/100 km figure being quoted for the 1.3 litre and a low 6.3 l/100 km for the 1.5 litre manual. The automatic derivative weighs in only slightly higher at 6.7 l/100 km.
Buyers have the choice of a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic on the 1.5l model, which drive the rear wheels.
Forming the starting point of the line-up with a strong value focus, is the S grade model, which features power windows, remote central locking, power steering, a centrally mounted console box, intermittent windscreen wipers and an anti-theft system as standard.
The SX grade brings touches of added comfort and style with colour-coded exterior mirrors with power operation, a refreshing air-conditioner system and vanity mirror for the front passenger.
Forming the flagship of the Avanza range is the TX grade, which is equipped with new sporty ‘switchblade’ 15 inch alloy wheels and adorned with chrome treatment on the front ‘brow’. A rear mounted roof spoiler adds a stylish touch to the profile.
Providing the in-car entertainment for family road trips is a 4-speaker audio system with USB input for added convenience. A multi-information display provides feedback on various elements to the driver.
A 1.3 litre Panel Van remains part of the line-up, providing the perfect utility vehicle with great manoeuvrability, fuel efficiency and a cavernous cargo area.
Pricing:
1.3 S – R 193 400
1.3 SX – R 208 500
1.5 SX – R R214 900
1.5 SX AT – R 231 600
1.5 TX – R 245 600
1.3 Panel Van – R 198 000