26.01.2009

New Toyota Avensis and iQ arrive



Toyota has just launched two new models to the Irish market. The iQ is a radical new model that takes minicars to a new level and the third generation Avensis is the evolution that existing owners will want. The new Avensis has been designed, engineered and is built in Europe. It projects a more athletic and sleek design than the model it takes over from, has more substance and is also more dynamic looking.

The new model features more powerful and cleaner engines, emits less CO2 and is the only D segment petrol vehicle within the C band for road tax in Ireland. The third generation Avensis features a powerful new range of petrol engines, upgraded diesel engines and advanced new transmissions. Toyota's 'Optimal Drive' technology combines to offer customers reduced emissions and fuel consumption, yet without compromising on power and driving pleasure.

The Avensis has always been one of the safest cars in its segment with a five star Euro NCAP rating from its original test, back in 2003. A major requirement in the development of the Avensis was to once again present a car with an advanced safety level. With seven airbags and active front seat headrests the new Avensis is engineered to achieve 5-stars in the even more stringent 2009 Euro NCAP rating.

All-new Toyota iQ is much smarter
The iQ is a revolutionary new car that Toyota says strengthens it’s position to offer exciting and desirable vehicles with low fuel consumption and emissions. Toyota expects the iQ to attract many new customers to the Toyota brand through the car’s breakthrough design, packaging and driving dynamics.



The radical iQ design represents simple, bold, forward-looking Japanese design approaches. To achieve a refined feel meticulous attention was paid to the quality finish of interior and exterior details. The iQ is small in size, but unlike a small car possesses a confident on-road appearance. You get drivability and feedback similar to that of a bigger car. This high level of innovative driving dynamics have been achieved by a combination of a new platform, innovative suspension/steering and leading-edge aerodynamics.

A host of engineering breakthroughs have been combined to make iQ the world’s smallest four-seat car, including six major space-saving innovations. Toyota sees the iQ as an ‘engineering jewel’ capable of radically changing consumer opinion on small cars. The iQ offers quick and nimble handling in urban environments with an extremely small turning radius of 3.9 metres, and a level of motorway stability previously unimaginable for a vehicle of its size.

Commenting at the launch of their two important new models, Dave Shannon, MD of Toyota Ireland said: “We at Toyota Ireland are very excited about the launch of these two great new products in the Irish market. Avensis is a core model in the Toyota line-up and continues to be a leading player in the D segment in Ireland, achieving number one sales in the segment for 22 out of the last 24 years.

We expect the improved third generation Avensis to build on the strong foundations of previous models that have sold over 71,000 since first introduced to Ireland in 1997. The iQ will challenge the Irish consumer’s expectations of a compact car. iQ represents a breakthrough in automotive engineering and radical thinking that differentiates it from all other small cars, and bringing a high level of sophistication usually only found on larger cars.”

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