T3-X 1.8 VVT-i 5dr

Safe, comfortable, reliable, built like a tank

We've owned our Avensis hatchback for nearly eight years, going from 40k miles on the clock to more than 100k. In that time it's cost about £1500 in maintenance, all on expendables such as battery, alternator, coil pack, clutch and headlamp bulbs. Everything else has been faultless, very little in the way of rattles or even wear inside.

It's not exactly fun to drive but it's very comfortable. The ride is a lot smoother than on most modern cars and the handling is fine, if a bit wallowy. It feels a bit small-wheeled (ours is on 16s) and the steering is kinda vague. Decent tyres make a difference, though.

The interior is massive and the boot is huge. Our cars has been severely mistreated, regularly carrying 300kg or so of building materials in the boot and even 8ft fence poles (with the tailgate shut). No complaints.

The 1.8 engine has had a persistently uneven tickover – drops low when you dip the clutch, wobbles at low revs, doesn't like hot weather. I've tried cleaning the throttle body, MAF sensor and other things to no effect. It's not a big deal and you can drive around it. On the move the engine is very smooth and quiet and there's enough go if you put the effort it. The gearshift is getting a bit crunchy, even after the gearbox oil was replaced. Fuel economy is spectacular, regularly above the official 39.2mpg and showing an indicated 50mpg+ on the trip computer on long journeys.

In all, a faithful family servant.

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