Toyota Avensis Verso 2.0 D4D

This is my third people carrier and by far the best for a number of reasons:

1. It is diesel and I am getting 50+ miles per gallon of fuel.

2. The car is longer than any of my previous cars (Toyota Picnic and an Alhambra), which give more people space inside, and more storage space.

3. The finish of the car inside is of a higher quality.

4. The spare tyre is under the car and does not take up any storage space.

I know you are only interested in the real life, day to day running of the car and the spec on each car is your own personal choice.

Real Life Situation

The car is fitted with 3 rows of seats, 2 in the front and back, with 3 seats in the middle. All of the seats in the middle row and back can be removed. On a number of occasions I have had to take the seats out, this gives a vast space and I have carried a 6-foot full size wardrobe with the boot down. The two men who put the wardrobe into the car just looked and laughed and were amazed that it went in.

When the seats are being used there is ample room to hold 7 adults and not be cramped for space, or if there are 4 going away for the day to play golf just take 3 seats out and these is loads of space for the clubs and bags etc.

We have 3 boys ages 9, 12 and 15 and as boys they do fight. The car has three rows of seats and in certain situations it is essential to keep on of the boys in the back row away from the other two. This car allows us to do this.

The Drive

When you are in the driving seat you are a bit higher than other cars on the road, giving you a good sense of safety as you can see clearly above most other vehicles. The driver seat can be adjusted both in height and depth. In first gear the car is a bit slow to take off, but through the gears the speed and acceleration is very good and there is a quick take off in around the 45mph + (excellent when you need to overtake). The car is well controlled in the town at low speeds and you have a great sense of power over other drivers, being a big car.

The car needs a small service every 10,000 miles (approx £90) and a full service at 20,000 miles (approx £130). I have 21,000 miles on my car and to date it has not given me any problems.

I would have no problems recommending this car to a family who want a comfortable drive, a good driving position and especially excellent fuel consumption.

My Avensis Verso is a great success. Can hold seven adults (small ones in the very back) and is cavernous for loads with the seats removed. It is very comfortable to drive, responsive and built, typically, extraordinarily well.