Two New Diesel Engines For The Toyota Avensis
Published: 2nd March 2005
New Six-Speed ManualTransmission
The 2.2 D-4D and 2.2 D-4D Clean Power engines are matched to a new six-speed manual transmission designed for quick and precise gear changes. A multi-cone synchroniser is used from first to fourth gears, which requires less force in the gear shift action. It uses a slide ball bearing in the selector lever shaft and fork shaft for high shift efficiency, as well as a shift guide plate which reduces the amount of free play after a shift has been made. Shift smoothness is also improved by a re-shaped mass damper.
The new transmission is robust and exceptionally compact, measuring 384mm long. This is smaller than other six-speed units with identical or even inferior torque capacity. The unit has a three-axis construction which permits a 20 per cent reduction in length compared to a two-axis configuration.
The lowest viscosity oil available for manual transmissions is used, which contributes to a one per cent reduction in fuel consumption. Using an oil separator reduces losses, due to oil agitation. The transmission also offers a wider gear range, more than 7.0:1.
Class-Leading Cost Of Ownership
Toyota targets the cheapest running costs in segment for the Avensis, making the car an excellent proposition for fleet operators. Avensis currently has the best insurance rating in the UK (Groups 7 to 12 across the range), thanks to repair costs that are more than 20 per cent less than the segment average (9mph impact test with 40 per cent offset).
The Avensis’s strong cost of ownership credentials will be further strengthened with the introduction of the new 2.2-litre D-4D engine, thanks to its class-leading performance and low emissions.
The 2.2 D-4D engine matches the 2.0-litre unit in terms of cumulative maintenance time after 60,000 miles at 4.2 hours - the lowest figure in the diesel D segment. The new engine also accepts mineral oil, which is cheaper than the synthetic or semi-synthetic oil required for some other engines.
The engine features both an automatic belt adjuster and hydraulic valve compensators, which means there is no need for belt tension or valve clearance adjustments to be made during the engine’s lifetime.
Improvements In Driving Dynamics
Along with the installation of the new 2.2 D-4D engine, the Avensis has been given an upgraded NVH package. This features an acoustic windshield, thicker bonnet insulator and extra sound insulation components in the engine compartment. The thickness of the floor and tunnel silencers has also been increased.
These measures make the Avensis 2.2 D-4D Clean Power the best in its class for booming noise and vibration.
The spring rate of the front anti-roll bar has been increased by 20 per cent, reducing body roll. The damping force of the front shock absorbers has also been increased, giving a flatter ride, and the capacity of the power steering pump has been intensified to allow for a quicker steering response.
* According to Directive 1999/100/EC
Toyota Avensis
Our Toyota Avensis Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Avensis range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £14,495 - £23,145
Body Styles:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 52
We have road tested the Toyota Avensis, to read our in-depth car review:
Toyota Avensis Review - Jan 2007
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 6th July 2008
