Toyota Avanza

Overview:

Toyota Lanka Private Limited is one among the major automobile firms in the country. It has an array of models in its fleet among which, Toyota Avanza is the only multi purpose vehicle. It is a seven seater family MPV, which is currently available in two variants. It is perhaps the most featured vehicle vehicle in its segment, as it is incorporated with all the standard comfort and safety aspects. This MPV is also bestowed with a robust suspension system McPherson Strut front and 4-link lateral rod system for its rear, which provides a smooth and comfortable driving experience. The automaker is offering this vehicle with two gasoline engine options among which, the base trim is equipped with a 1.3-litre K3 VE engine. While the top end variant is fitted with a 1.5-litre 3SZ-VE mill, which is available with 4-speed automatic and five speed manual transmission gearbox. This MPV is incorporated with a slew of important comfort features like a proficient air conditioning system, fully foldable third row seat, power steering and electrically operated outside mirrors. This vehicle is also bestowed with important protective aspects like ABS with EBD, side impact beams and dual front SRS (supplementary restraint system) airbags, which safeguards the vehicle and its occupants inside. This vehicle has an ample space inside the cabin with excellent head and leg room owing to its long wheelbase and height. It is available with a standard warranty of 2-years or 50000 kilometers, which can be extended further at an additional cost.

Mileage and Fuel economy:

The entry level variant is equipped with a 1.3-litre gasoline engine that has electronically regulated fuel injection system. This engine has the ability to give away a peak mileage in the range of 14 to 17 Kmpl. On the other hand, its top end trim is blessed with a 1.5-litre mill that can give away a peak mileage in the range of 13 to 15 Kmpl.

Power:

All the engines in this series are based on a DOHC valve configuration with 4-cylinders and 16-valves. Its entry level 1293cc engine has the ability to produce a power of 67kW that results in a hammering torque output of 120Nm. On the other hand, its top end 1495cc mill can generate a peak power of 80Kw and a pounding torque of 141Nm.

Acceleration And Pickup:

Both the engines in this series are mated to a five speed manual transmission gearbox, wherein the 1.5-litre mill is also available with 4-speed automatic transmission option. These engines helsp the vehicle to achieve a top speed in the range of 155 to 160 kmph. The variant with 1.5-litre mill can break the 100 Kmph speed barrier in approximately 12 seconds while the 1.3-litre engine can do it in just 15 seconds.

Exteriors:

This Toyota Avanza looks like a compact MPV but its external dimensions tells a different story. It has a pretty external appearance, thanks to its classy exterior cosmetics. Its front facade has a large multi-reflector headlight cluster that is powered by halogen lamps and turn indicators. The radiator grille is done up with an extensive use of chrome and is embedded with company's insignia. It has a massive body colored front bumper that houses a pair of fog lamps and an air dam, which gives it a dynamic stance. The side profile has an expressive wheel arches that are fitted with conventional steel rims. It also has a few elegant cosmetics like body colored door handles and external wing mirrors along with black pillars. Its rear end even attractive, thanks to the clear lens taillight cluster that houses powerful brake lamps, courtesy lights and turn indicators. Unlike the front bumper, its rear one has a plain structure that further adds to its decent stance. The tailgate is quite large, which is accompanied by a wide windscreen and a spoiler. It also has a chrome plated strip featuring a company's insignia, which compliments its decent stance.

Exterior Measurements:

This multi purpose vehicle has a total length of 4120mm and a decent width of 1630mm (excluding outside mirrors). It has an overall height of 1695mm and a minimum ground clearance of 200mm. It also has a long wheelbase of 2655mm, which makes the cabin spacious.

Interior:

This MPV has a subtle interior design that is done up with an attractive dual tone color scheme. It has a large dashboard featuring an ergonomically positioned central console that houses an air conditioning unit, music system and a few utility aspects. The instrument cluster is also quite large featuring four analogue gauges and a few warning lights. Its cockpit is furnished with two individual seats featuring side bolsters, while the other two rows are fitted with bench seats. The automaker has fitted these seats with adjustable head restraint and are covered with high quality fabric upholstery. Its third row seat can be folded completely while the second row seat can be folded in 60:40 split ratio.

Interior Comfort:

This vehicle is currently available in two trim levels but both the trims are equipped with identical features. Its cabin is fitted with a proficient air conditioning system with dual zone control along with rear adjustable air vents, which helps to regulate the air temperature inside. The automaker has also incorporated aspects like electrically operated outside mirrors, bottle holders, a large glove box, seat back pockets and accessory power socket. In addition to these, it also has aspects like power steering, inside rear view mirrors, power windows, remote central locking along with front and rear wipers.

Interior Measurements:

It has a huge cabin space with impressive head, shoulder and leg room. It also has a massive cargo space of 955-litres, which can be extended further. At the same time, the automaker has fitted a huge fuel tank with a storage capacity of just 45-litres.

Engine and Performance:

At present, this multi-purpose vehicle is available with two gasoline engine options. Its entry level trim is powered by a 1.3-litre engine that has VVT-i technology. This engine is based on a DOHC valve configuration with 4-cylinders and 16-valves that displaces 1298cc. It can produce a maximum power of 67Kw at 6000rpm that results in a hammering torque output of 120Nm at 4400rpm. This engine is mated with a five speed manual transmission gearbox. On the other hand, its top end variant is equipped with a 1.5-litre engine that is also based on double overhead camshaft valve configuration. This VVT-i engine has the ability to churn out a power of 80Kw at 600rpm in combination with a torque of 141Nm at 4400rpm. The automaker is offering this engine with both five speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission gearbox.

Stereo and Accessories:

The manufacturer has equipped its dashboard with a 1-DIN based music system that includes a CD player and an FM radio. Furthermore, it has four speakers, which delivers good sound output. Additionally, individuals can incorporate a DVD player along with a touchscreen infotainment unit and a surround sound system, which enhances the entertainment. Customers can also customize its exteriors with a set of stylish alloy wheels, body decals, roof rails and a few other add-ons.

Wheels:

Both the variants in this series are fitted with a set of 14-inch steel rims including full wheel covers. These are covered with tubeless radial tyres of size 185/70 R14.

Braking and Handling:

This MPV is blessed with a conventional disc and drum braking system, which is further assisted by anti lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution. In terms of suspension, its front axle is fitted with McPherson strut while the rear axle is paired with 4-link system including lateral rod. It is also fitted with a rack and pinion based electric power assisted steering, which supports a minimum turning radius of just 4.7-litres.

Safety and Security:

This Toyota Avanza has a lightweight yet rigid monocoque body structure that is capable of absorbing impact and offers excellent stability on road. It also has a few essential protective aspects like dual front airbags, three point seat belts, side impact protection beams, multi-reflector headlamps and central locking system. In addition to these, it also has an inside rear view mirror, high mount LED third brake light and a rear window defogger.

Pros:

1. Comfort features are quite good.
2. Initial cost of ownership is quite competitive.
3. An ideal vehicle for family utility purpose.

Cons:

1. External appearance can be updated.
2. Fuel economy can be improved.
3. There are no connectivity ports of USB and AUX-In devices.