The Toyota Avanza has come a long way since its initial introduction as a comfortable and affordable multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that moved many people from one place to another. True to its name (Avanza is derived from an Italian word “avanzata”, which means advance), the Avanza has – over the years – evolved into a more sophisticated MPV that boasts a lot passenger-like qualities.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is proud to announce the addition of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) – including Brake Assist System and Traction Control – as a standard safety feature on all Avanza models. Anti-Lock Breaking System (ABS) is standard across the range. The latest safety enhancements come exactly a year after the addition of Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), three-point centre seatbelt, driver and passenger airbags, ISOFIX restraint points and centre headrests for the second seating row.
“The current generation Avanza has been remodelled continuously, with a variety of improvements in style and capabilities, since its launch in 2012. While it has become smarter on the inside, its exterior looks have not been neglected. The Avanza is definitely more refined, but it’s still the multi-faceted and multi-functional MPV that our customers fell in love with a decade ago,” says Kerry Roodt, General Manager of Marketing Communications at Toyota South Africa Motors.
The interior of the current generation Avanza feels more like a passenger car compared to its predecessor. This was achieved courtesy of a lowered instrument panel which has improved driver visibility and a centrally located cluster. Occupant luggage space was also addressed and all three rows have ample legroom and knee-room. The extra space was created by adjusting the shape and placement of the seatbacks and door trim.
All those who have been inside the current model would have observed that the driver is treated to a revised instrument cluster, adopting striking amber hued inserts, a silver outer bezel and white night-time illumination for greater visibility and user friendliness. All models have an Eco indicator to provide feedback to the driver on economical driving – thereby contributing to even better fuel economy.
Despite these improvements, the Avanza has always maintained its status as a value for money proposition. While sales in the MPV segment have reduced significantly over the years locally, the popularity of the Avanza has not waned. In fact, average monthly sales are at a laudable 400 units. Customers are well aware of Toyota’s traditional strengths of QDR (quality, durability, reliability) when purchasing Avanza.
The peace of mind that comes with owning any model in the Toyota range cannot be understated. For example, in the Kinsely Report, the Avanza has always performed strongly by either winning the category or finishing second. The report is an independent reference on parts’ pricing and is intended to assist motorists seeking knowledge on the cost involved to service, maintain and repair a vehicle. The Avanza came second in this year’s report (2016 Kinsey Report).
The Avanza range offers customers three grades to choose from depending on their individual needs. 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 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. Lastly, the 1.3-litre Panel Van remains part of the line-up, providing a perfect utility vehicle with great manoeuvrability, fuel efficiency and a cavernous cargo area.
PRICING
Avanza 1.3 S 5MT: R219 100
Avanza 1.3 SX 5MT: R235 900
Avanza 1.5 SX 5MT: R243 100
Avanza 1.5 SX 4AT: R261 600
Avanza 1.5 TX 5MT: R277 100
Avanza 1.3 S Panel Van 5MT: R224 400
