Two New Engines For Avensis

The new 2.4 Di engine also marks the arrival of a new five-speed multi-mode automatic transmission. It is the first five-speed unit Toyota has offered with a four-cylinder engine and, although it produces higher levels of torque than four-speed units, it is both lighter and more compact. The use of five speeds and a higher final gear ratio aids acceleration and fuel economy.

The transmission is also equipped with a multi-mode system that lets the driver choose between fully automatic or sequential gear changes. By putting the gear lever into "S", the driver can take greater control of the shift pattern, simply by moving the lever backwards or forwards. Unlike most sequential systems, the Toyota transmission allows the driver to select a gear range, rather than one specific gear. For example, by shifting up to "3", the car will automatically use first, second or third gear according to vehicle speed and road conditions; similarly, selecting "4" will extend the range to include fourth gear.

More responsive gearshifts are achieved thanks to a clutch-to-clutch pressure control system and centrifugal fluid pressure-cancelling. A logic system operates to help keep gearchanges to a minimum, recognising when the car is travelling on winding roads with hilly sections or long inclines and holding an appropriate gear for longer.

UK Market Introduction

The Toyota Avensis 2.4 Di and 2.0 D-CAT will go on sale in the UK early in 2004. The 2.4 Di will be available in T4 and T Spirit saloon and hatchback body styles and will benefit from High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps above the regular model specification. Introduction of the 2.4 Di Tourer model will be confirmed next year. The 2.0 D-CAT will also be launched at the beginning of the year, available in T3-X, T4 and T Spirit saloon models. Prices and further details will be announced nearer the time of launch.