Toyota Avanza

Synopsis

Toyota Innova is till now the best-selling MPV ever launched in India. Now, when a new segment of compact MPVs is getting popularity in India, Toyota is all set to enter our Indian market with their extremely popular mini MPV, Avanza. With Avanza, Toyota will try to snatch the throne from Maruti Suzuki Ertiga which is currently the best-selling car in its class. Does it have the potential to do so? Let’s find out.

Exterior

If Avanza comes to India then it will surely become the most stylish MPV in its segment. Avanza looks like the sporty version of Innova with smaller dimensions. The recent facelift has made this MPV even more attractive. The edgy look of clear lens headlights complements the twin layered chrome finished front grille of Avanza which comes with a big Toyota logo at its centre. The horizontally placed air-dam in its front bumper forms the mouth of this car and gels well with its round shaped fog lights. The front lip spoiler further enhances the beauty of this car. The wheel flares of Avanza looks sporty with its 8-spoke 15 inches alloy wheels and body colored ORVMs which are integrated with side indicators. The rear wheel arches nicely merges in to its rear bumper. The tall boot gate of Avanza features long chrome bar just above its number plate which adds premium touch to this MPV. The square shaped rear glass looks sporty with integrated roof spoiler and wiper.

Interior

Currently, Avanza comes in all black interiors and it will be interesting to see if Toyota offers the same color in India. The car features acceptable quality of plastic and fabric material. However, we would like to see chrome and beige finishing inside Avanza when it reaches India. It will be a seven seater with sliding seats in its second row. Toyota cars tend to be spacious and Avanza is no different. The leg and shoulder room for the passengers in the second and third row is much better than Ertiga. Even the rear seats provide optimum amount of under thigh and back support. Tall drivers will enjoy the roomy feeling inside the cabin of Avanza.

Comfort and Convenience

Toyota Avanza comes with vital comfort features like Double AC with rear vents, adjustable power steering, electric ORVMs and windows, height adjustable driver seat, MID with mileage calculator, keyless entry and standard solar film.

Dashboard and Storage

Toyota Avanza features a modern dashboard with silver finished central console. The integrated instrument console features bright circular dials for clear vision. This dashboard feels quite soft to touch and its fit and finish is also commendable. Avanza features a roomy glove box integrated in its dashboard. The MPV also offers spacious door pockets and back pockets on front seats. This MPV has a spacious boot with luggage tray and bag hook.

Music System

The central console of Avanza comes with an integrated 2-Din music system with radio, CD, MP3 player. The audio system also features Aux-in, USB and iPod compatibility. Avanza comes equipped with six powerful speakers with controls mounted on its steering wheels.

Engine and Gearbox

Globally, Avanza is available with petrol engines only. The Indian spec Avanza is likely to be powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder VVT-i petrol engine which will churn out a maximum power output of 102 bhp at 6000 rpm. The torque production of this DOHC, 16valves engine is of 136 Nm which arrives at 4400 rpm. Toyota is likely to offer Avanza with a five -speed manual as well as four -speed automatic transmission.

Acceleration and Performance

The light weight of Avanza is its biggest USP and that makes it better than any other MPV. If launched in India, it will have the best in class power to weight ratio. This DOHC engine is quite refined and powerful and you will be pleased by the performance of Avanza. It picks up nicely in every gear and gives you instant throttle reaction. This MPV reaches 0-100km/hr in less than 13 seconds and can easily go pass the speed of 160km/hr. Even with full load, Avanza requires minimal gear shifts to maintain its momentum. The well-spaced gear ratios linearly supply the power of this engine and make it quite enjoyable in city as well as on highways.

Mileage and Safety Features

Expect Avanza to return a mileage of around 12-13km/ltr. Avanza features Dual front air bags, engine immobilizer, rear doors with child lock and collapsible steering column which ensures your safety.

Suspension and Brakes

Toyota incorporates Avanza with McPherson Struts at its front and 4-link coil spring suspension system at the back. It features disc brakes at its front and drum brake at the back. The Indian Spec Avanza will also feature ABS with EBD and brake assist.

Ride and Handling

Avanza is the undisputed champion in this segment. Its superb suspension system and extended wheelbase of 2655 mm makes it extremely stable around corners. There is only minor body roll around corners and the tyres also provide firm grip to this light machine. The brakes find it quite easy to stop this MPV precisely. It stays confident at high speeds and steers accurately. The light handling of this car makes it agile in city traffic and with tight turning radius of 4.7m, it can be parked anywhere easily. The turning abilities of Avanza are similar to any other small hatch which makes it the best MPV for city usage.

Shades, Variants and Warranty

Shades, variants and warranty are yet to be disclosed.

Verdict

Undoubtedly, Avanza is a complete value for money car. Its exceptional handling qualities and powerful performance makes it better than any other mini MPV available in India. Avanza has an incredible combination of stylish looks, features, space, performance, fuel efficiency and we think that’s all what an MPV need to succeed. A diesel engine would even make things interesting in our Indian car market. An aggressive price tag for Avanza will surely make it easy for Toyota to rule a segment which has a bright future in India.