Revealed: Toyota Avensis

Toyota has released a sneak preview of the new Avensis.The rear shot shows how the new saloon will take on a Lexus-inspired design, with squared-off rear lights and a high, more clearly defined boot shape. Sources say that Toyota has improved the car’s interior quality and design, too, with the cabin also getting more than a touch of Lexus. Due to go on sale in 2009, the new Toyota Avensis will continue to be built at the company’s Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, where the current model is made. The Avensis enters the European D-segment at a difficult time, with the well-respected Mondeo already established and the all-new Vauxhall Insignia on sale later this year. Both cars have redefined the idea of a mid-market saloon with hugely improved refinement, lots of room and big-car equipment levels. Toyota will be hoping that the Avensis helps kick-start sales, which are sliding across Western Europe, with big falls recorded in Germany and Italy.The new Toyota Avensis will be revealed for the first time at the Paris motor show in October. No prices have been confirmed, but expect an entry price of around £16,000.

Hilton Holloway/Vicky Parrott