Toyota plans to sell around 27,000 of the new model Avensis in the UK next year – out of a European sales target of 130,000 units. The new model is set to hit showrooms in March 2003 in saloon, hatchback and estate forms.

Launch derivatives will be the 1.8-litre VVT-i and 2.0-litre direct injection petrol engines. The 2.0-litre D-4D common rail diesel will be available from May 2003.

The sales forecasts put the carmaker's D-sector champion in the vanguard of a European sales push planned to market 80,000 units - or five per cent of market share - by 2005.

The new Avensis is longer than the outgoing model by 110mm at 4,630mm long; wider by 50mm at 1,760mm; and taller by 55mm at 1,480mm. The wheelbase is extended by 70mm to 2,700mm helping to provide extra leg and knee room. The estate benefits from an extra 100mm in length (4,700mm). It is taller, too, at 1,525mm, with roof rails fitted as standard.