Toyota show stars at the double

02nd September 2008

The wraps are off the new Toyota Avensis! In a surprise move, the Japanese firm has released an official picture of its new Ford Mondeo rival, which is set to make its debut at next month’s Paris Motor Show.

With tough competition from the Vauxhall Insignia, too, the Avensis needs to raise its game, offering slicker styling, a sharper driving experience and better quality. And it is set to do just that with a look that’s more sporty than its predecessor – the car’s sweeping roofline is reminiscent of the VW Passat and there are neat, squared-off tail-lights.

The model will be built in the UK at Toyota’s Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, and go on sale in January 2009. The engine line-up will feature units that are both more powerful and emit less carbon dioxide than at present. Toyota says that the model will retain the ‘refinement and equipment levels that are an Avensis hallmark’. As well as the saloon pictured here, hatchback and estate models are expected.

Joining the Avensis on Toyota’s stand in Paris will be the rugged Urban Cruiser. It was originally shown in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, but the chunky-looking urban SUV will appear at the Paris expo in production-ready form. Under the bonnet, a 1.4-litre D-4D diesel engine means CO2 emissions of only 133g/km for the four-wheel-drive version.