Fleet Managers Impressed By New Toyota Avensis
Initial feedback from the UK’s top fleet managers emphasises why the new Toyota Avensis is a strong contender for the D segment. The UK’s most influential fleet managers test drove the new Toyota Avensis following an unveiling at the ExCel Conference and Exhibition Centre in London two weeks ahead of the public launch on 1 March.
“The new Avensis, with its combination of strong residual values, low maintenance budgets and well-equipped, keenly priced model range should enjoy a competitive rental position within the fiercely aggressive D segment,” commented Rob Barnes, Manufacturer Relationship Manager, LeasePlan.
David Shardlow, Fleet Manager at Mansell Plc added: “Another excellent product from Toyota. A really positive, aggressive look, which is readily identifiable. New Avensis will give the Ford Mondeo a run for its money due to the impressive specifications even from the entry model such as the continuation of satellite navigation as standard. The fact that the Avensis is Euro IV compliant across the range, particularly the diesel, is a major benefit to Mansell and its employees.”
Further positive feedback included reference to the high levels of safety – new Toyota Avensis has nine airbags fitted as standard, superior braking performance and an innovative seatbelt reminder system.
Paul Philpott, Commercial Director for Toyota GB commented on the purpose of such a high-profile fleet launch: “The new Toyota Avensis will raise the stakes for the key D segment in the UK, so it was important for Toyota to launch this new flagship model for Europe with a new approach. Applying a business class theme allowed us to communicate the message of the new Avensis’ ‘superior quality’ to the fleet market.”
New Toyota Avensis in the Fleet Market
New Toyota Avensis offers an excellent whole life cost proposition for the fleet operator. Fuel economy is excellent at 48.7mpg for the diesel engine on the combined cycle, whilst servicing times have been reduced to a class leading total of 4.2 hours, based on a servicing schedule of three-year/60,000miles cycle.
Insurance group ratings are also very competitive starting at 7E. The combination of reduced fuel consumption, reduced servicing time, low insurance grouping, competitive parts pricing and strong residual values, as high as 35% for both 1.8-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel, result in significantly reduced cost of ownership ensuring new Toyota Avensis is a strong contender for the UK fleet market.
The Toyota Fleet sales target for 2003 is 16,000 units compared to 14,000 units in 2002. Sixty per cent of all new Avensis sales will be to Fleet customers.
ENDS
