The new Toyota Avensis: the safest car in its class according to Euro NCAP
The safety assessment organisation Euro–NCAP has recently introduced an even tougher testing regime – and Toyota's Avensis rose to the challenge and passed with flying colours.
The Avensis is the very first car to be crash–tested under the new, rigorous standards and win the ultimate accolade in safety – the maximum score of five stars. The Avensis came top with a record score of 34 points, making it officially the safest car to be launched in Europe.
Euro–NCAP – what is it?
Euro–NCAP stands for European New Car Assessment Programme. It is vital for car buyers to obtain reliable and impartial information regarding the safety performance of different models, and Euro–NCAP provides just that valuable service. It is backed by five European governments, the EU Commission and many European motoring and consumer organisations. http://www.euroncap.com
Tough new crash tests
Euro–NCAP's new crash tests use incredibly sensitive dummies to more accurately record the results of impacts. Each of these smart dummies cost around 145,000 and are packed with high–tech equipment. They are designed specifically to assess the protection given to driver and passenger during frontal and side impacts.
Where quality leads, safety follows
It's no surprise that the Toyota Avensis 2003 passed the tests with flying colours. Toyota has always put safety first, and its unique philosophy of Superior Quality through Engineering' has ensured that the Avensis reaches new heights in safety standards. From the very beginning of the design and development process, both active and passive safety were given the highest priority.
Top in active safety
Active safety is the state–of–the–art technology that actively assists you to keep control of your vehicle in any circumstances. The new Avensis features the latest–generation Anti–lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake–force Distribution (EBD), which come as standard on all models. Brake Assist (BA) works together with ABS and EBD to provide further braking force in case of emergency braking conditions. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRC) are also available to boost safety under low adherence conditions such as rain, snow or gravel. The handling of the Avensis 2003 is second to none.
Top in passive safety
Passive safety consists of all the elements that help to protect you and your passengers in the event of an accident. The new Avensis features a strong, rigid body structure combined with Toyota's Minimal Intrusion Cabin System (MICS), in which components are designed to help absorb and disperse impact energy to minimise cabin distortion.
It also boasts nine airbags, including a totally new 18–litre Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) knee airbag to protect the driver, and dual–stage inflators on both front seats. Side and curtain-shield airbags offer protection to front and rear passengers. The Avensis features an innovative dual–stage seat–belt reminder system., Both brake and clutch pedals retract to avoid driver's injuries in case of an accident. In terms of passive safety, the new Toyota Avensis is top of its class.
Child safety
For additional reassurance, ISOFIX child seat fittings in the rear seat come as standard in all models of the new Avensis. The Child Restraint System (CRS) is equipped with a top tether to help prevent the child seat from tipping forward in the event of an impact.
Five star safety
Toyota's fine attention to detail, investment in the latest technologies and commitment to excellence have always ensured a place at the top of the safety league. Euro–NCAP's highest rating of five stars is the proof of the "safety through design" philosophy of Toyota and establishes the new Toyota Avensis as Europe's safest car in its class.
Read more about Toyota's safety technology