Toyota Avensis Verso Gives Motability Drivers More Space
A spacious interior, easy access, high equipment levels and low fuel consumption make the new Avensis Verso an attractive proposition for customers who obtain their cars under the Motability scheme.
“Many people with special mobility requirements have to consider not only their own needs but those of their families,” says Colin Niklas, Dealer Fleet & Contract Hire Manager, responsible for Motability sales for Toyota.
“This is a sleek, stylish MPV that drives and feels like an executive car. It can carry seven passengers plus all their luggage in comfort, but at just 4,650mm is no longer or less manoeuvrable than a standard Avensis saloon.”
Helping to maximise space are a stretched wheelbase, low floor-height and unique underfloor storage area in the boot. Front seats recline and slide, and in the second row slide and, as with the third row, can be folded, tumbled or removed as required.
“For Motability drivers who need easy stowage for wheelchairs and other bulky equipment, the Avensis Verso has the longest interior load area in its class and can carry 2,422 litres with both rows of rear seats removed,” says Colin Niklas.
“Rear deck height is only 740mm from the ground, so loading and unloading is easier than on many other vehicles in this category.”
The Avensis Verso also combines class-leading performance with impressive fuel economy. It comes with either 2.0-litre VVT-i petrol or D-4D common-rail diesel engines, with automatic transmission an option on the petrol version. Combined cycle fuel consumption on the petrol
Verso is 32.8mpg, yet it accelerates from 0-62mph in 11.4 seconds. Consumption on the diesel version is 43.5mpg.
The Avensis Verso GS comes with standard air-conditioning, remote alarm with immobiliser and double-locking, radio/CD player, electric windows with one touch and anti-trap mechanism, cargo area cover and front fog lights. The GLS version also features turn-by-turn satellite navigation, rear air con control and roof-rails.
Safety features include anti-lock braking with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and Brake Assist fitted as standard, twin airbags, fuel cut safety system, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, vehicle stability control, speed-sensitive power steering, three-point seatbelts throughout, seat-integrated front seatbelt anchorage and support, seatbelt warning system and upper interior head impact protection.
Motability is the charitable body designed to help the eighth of the UK population who have mobility problems. People who receive Higher Rate Disabled Living or War Pensioners’ Mobility allowances, qualify for assistance in obtaining new vehicles on contract hire, while some 10 per cent opt to buy new or used vehicles on hire purchase under the scheme.
Most Toyota dealerships have Motability specialists trained to advise customers on suitable vehicles and, where necessary, adaptations to controls. Motability sales account for some 150,000 transactions a year, and registrations under the scheme make up around four per cent of Toyota’s annual sales.
“The Avensis Verso is ideal for those with families and/or special load space requirements,” says Colin Niklas. “The Toyota Avensis, Yaris and Yaris Verso, Previa, RAV4, Land Cruiser Colorado and now the Prius petrol-electric hybrid car are also available under the scheme.”
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