Just like the Innova, the Avanza's purpose is to ferry seven people with the toughness Toyota is known for, in a more affordable price. 

In fact, the Avanza has been fulfilling this brief since 2012, making it a stalwart in the small MPV class. Toyota has constantly updated the MPV to keep it relevant, updates that are present in car's four trim levels (J, E, G, Veloz,). 

Given its age, price of P743,000 to P1.077 million, and mix of pros and cons, is the Avanza still a worthy contender? 

Pros

Compact size

As official measurements would show, only a few millimeters separate the Avanza's exterior dimensions and the Vios', and yet the former manages to fit an extra row of seats (expect in the J trim). 

Second- and third-row occupants are given sliding and reclining seats. They are also provided a ceiling-mounted aircon system, three-point seatbelts, a 12-volt charging port, and a good view out thanks to the expansive windows. 

Cargo carrying abilities

An MPV is expected to handle crowds and cargo, and as such, the Avanza can transform into a mini cargo van when needed. To make room, the rearmost pew can be folded against the sides of the cabin, while the middle row can tumble out of the way.  

Aside from flexible seats, the Avanza's upright shape can swallow bulkier items. With a pickup-derived body-on-frame chassis underneath, heavier items can be carried, too. 

Decent equipment

Driver and passenger are also treated to creature comforts. In the Avanza E, they can use the 2DIN audio system's auxiliary and Bluetooth connections. In the Avanza G and Veloz, infotainment is provided by a touchscreen with iOS and Android connectivity. All Avanzas pipe music through four speakers. 

  

Meanwhile, leather in the steering wheel, chrome on the door handles, and patterns on the seats jazz up the interior of the top-trim Veloz. 

Cons

Average safety kit

From the Avanza E to Veloz, the safety kit includes two front airbags, ABS, child locks on the rear doors, and Isofix child seat mounts. This equipment pales in comparison to the Vios, which features side airbags and stability control, among others. 

Ride and refinement

The Avanza's body-on-frame chassis is tougher on bumps and lumps of the road, compared to the MPV's car-based rivals. However, that comes at the expense of a less-than-cosseting ride. The drivetrain, although abundant with spare parts, could also show the vehicle's age.

A 1.5-liter engine (103hp, 136Nm) powers the Veloz and G variants, while a 1.3-liter (95hp, 121Nm) does duty in the E and J trims. 

Photos from Toyota

Also read:

Toyota PH committed to ease of vehicle ownership with Sure Advantage

Toyota thanks partner athletes who competed in Tokyo 2020