The Toyota Avanza is a front-engine, rear-wheel drive automobile produced in Indonesia and Malaysia by Toyota, who also sell the car under their Daihatsu brand. Somebody call it “Little Big Car” because this little big car does everything a big car can do!
The name “Avanza” was taken from the Italian word avanzato, which means “advance”. The car was launched at the Gaikindo Auto Expo in 2003 and sold over 100,000 units that year. This little big car hit Malaysia and Indonesia market and now it is continue shining with its latest 1.5G Model.
The older 1.3G model of the Avanza has power problem. Driving a 1.3G Avanza to climb on steep highlands roads has resulted in exhausted gasps from its overworked 1.3 litre engine as it carried the seven-seater metal body on its four wheels. A special version of the Avanza was launched in late 2004 using the new Toyota VVT-i engine, which gave the car more power. The special edition was also equipped with an automatic transmission. However, the manufacturer only produced 200 units of this special edition.
The latest 1.5G Model Avanza has increased the car’s power. The car was also restyled with a new grille, new bumpers, a new interior, and new front & rear lamps. This new model also has a new engine, a 1.5 l 16-valve DOHC VVT-i gasoline engine (similar to the Toyota Rush). The 1.5G Avanza comes with dual SRS airbags, ABS (anti-lock braking system) and EBS (Electronic Brake Force distribution that spreads the braking force evenly between the front and back wheels). Besides that, the Avanza has a GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) that provides an exceptionally high level of safety which protects its passengers by minimizing deformation to the passenger compartment.
In term of power, this new car is still lacking compare to other MPV. Nevertheless, it is still worth considering the Avanza as family second car. The price is competitive and generally considered low compare to other MPV, besides that, the bulky and heavy body of the car will stop you from speeding. It will drive between 100km/h and 110km/h really comfortably but over tat it will retaliate a little. From users’ comment, this car also easier to do side parking.
So if you are eyeing an affordable MPV to accommodate all your family members, you can consider it – the little big car.