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THE Toyota Avanza has been on the streets for some time now and by the numbers we see around it is proving to be a very popular alternative. Positioned as a compact class, entry-level vehicle that offers multi-purpose utility, a lot of families are finding the Avanza to be a good cost effective means of transport. Although rather boxy looking, the Avanza stands apart in terms of exterior appearance and for its relatively small size offers the capability of seating seven in relative comfort.

The interior is well finished, although I would be hard pressed to say that I am enthusiastic about the colour and material type used on the seats.

Dashboard styling and colour is reminiscent of an eighties era Corolla but nevertheless is well laid out and functional.

Gently curved surfaces house the instrument cluster that incorporates four dial-type gauges with the large diameter speedometer and tachometer in the centre.

Heating and ventilation controls are by three rotary controls.

Seating is good with two bucket-type seats for driver and front passenger that provide good lateral support. The second row of seats which carries three occupants, has a 50/50 split to allow the back rests to be folded down independently of each other.

In addition these seats can also be folded forward independently to increase floor space. The rearmost row of seats is a bench format with space for two.

As with the second row of seats, this seat can be folded forward, allowing for an increase in rear load space with seating for five still available in the vehicle.

Ample storage space is provided with a total of sixteen areas provided to hold drinks or oddments. Standard equipment on our test vehicle, the 1.3l SX, includes power windows, power door locks with remote central locking and air conditioning.

In car entertainment is an option, but the car is pre-wired and has front speakers and a pillar mounted aerial to allow easy fitment.

Safety well catered for
Safety on the Avanza 1.3 XS is well catered for with a body structure incorporating impact absorbing zones, side reinforcement beams, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake force Distribution, a rear screen demister and wiper and multi-reflector headlamps. Driver and front passenger airbags are also supplied.

The newly developed 1298 cc four cylinder engine with twin-overhead camshaft, 16-valve, with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing- intelligent), and electronic fuel injection, produces 67 kW @ 6 000 r/min. Torque is 120 Nm @ 4 400 r/min.

Top speed quoted for the 1.3 litre models is 160 km/h with a 0-100 km/h time of 14,2 seconds. The engine is mounted north/south at the front and drives through the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.

The Avanza 1.3 SX was a surprise on the road, despite its high stance the car was amazingly stable and nimble, even strong side winds did not present the sort of problem I was expecting. Handling was crisp and the body roll limited, the power steering was precise and nicely weighted and the gear shift positive.

I never carried six passengers but would imagine that the 1.3 litre motor would tend to struggle on long hills, but under everyday motoring conditions the small power plant coped well, response was good and acceleration acceptable.

Comfort and noise levels were good and the front seats provided a reasonable amount of lateral support, I always believe this is an important factor in allowing you to stay in control of the vehicle during cornering.

Overall the Toyota Avanza 1.3 SX is a very good low cost entry into the SUV market and will definitely fill the role of a "moms taxi" admirably as well as general all round family motoring.

With its flexible seating arrangements, the Avanza is capable of moving six passengers or a large amount of cargo with ease and a price most families can afford.

Incidentally the name Avanza, is derived from the Italian word "Avanzato", or "advance" in English.

The Toyota Avanza 1.3 SX's retail price of R121 000 includes a three year/100 000 km warranty and a four year /60 000 km service plan.

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