The Toyota Avensis II 2.4 i 16V D-4, produced between 2003 and 2009, represented a significant step up in refinement and performance for Toyota’s mid-size sedan. Positioned as a near-premium offering within the Avensis II range (codenamed T27), this variant aimed to compete with European rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. It was offered primarily in European and Asian markets, where the demand for comfortable, reliable, and reasonably powerful sedans was strong. The 2.4-liter engine and five-speed automatic transmission combination offered a balance between performance and convenience, appealing to buyers who prioritized ease of driving over outright sportiness.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Avensis |
| Generation | Avensis II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 i 16V D-4 (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3800 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2AZ-FSE |
| Engine displacement | 2362 cm3 (144.14 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1375 kg (3031.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4630 mm (182.28 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/45 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Avensis II 2.4 i D-4 is the 2AZ-FSE engine, a 2.4-liter (2362 cc) inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes Toyota’s D-4 direct injection technology, which injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The 2AZ-FSE boasts a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. Paired with this engine is a five-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and comfortable shifts. This transmission wasn’t known for being particularly sporty, prioritizing refinement over aggressive downshifts. The automatic transmission was a common choice for Avensis buyers who valued convenience and ease of use.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.4-liter engine provided a noticeable performance upgrade over the base 1.8-liter models. While not a sports sedan, the Avensis II 2.4 i offered brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 136.7 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the available manual transmission. Gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising rather than maximizing acceleration. In real-world driving, the 2.4-liter engine felt relaxed at highway speeds, with ample power for overtaking. The automatic transmission’s shift points were generally well-chosen, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick maneuvers. Compared to the more economical 1.8-liter variants, the 2.4 offered a more confident and refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.4 i D-4 trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. Features commonly found on this variant included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, central locking, an upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather available as an option. The dashboard layout was functional and well-built, reflecting Toyota’s reputation for quality. Optional extras included a navigation system and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Avensis II utilized a conventional front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Suspension consisted of coil springs all around, providing a comfortable ride. The front suspension featured MacPherson struts, while the rear employed a double wishbone setup. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The chassis was designed to prioritize comfort and stability over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll, but the Avensis II wasn’t intended to be a corner carver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Avensis II 2.4 i D-4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times. Fuel economy was respectable for a 2.4-liter engine, but not class-leading. Compared to the 1.8-liter models, the 2.4 offered a significant performance boost, but at the cost of slightly higher fuel consumption. The 2.4 i D-4 was positioned as a more premium alternative to the lower-spec Avensis models, offering a more satisfying driving experience and a higher level of equipment.
Legacy
The 2AZ-FSE engine, when properly maintained, proved to be a reliable and durable unit. The five-speed automatic transmission also generally held up well over time. However, like any vehicle, regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues. Common issues reported with the Avensis II include occasional problems with the electronic power steering and the air conditioning system. Today, the Avensis II 2.4 i D-4 can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It remains a practical and comfortable choice for buyers seeking a reliable mid-size sedan. Its reputation for dependability and relatively low running costs continues to make it a popular option for those seeking a sensible and well-built vehicle.
