The nights are cold but you can make your days scorching with a fancy new four-wheeled purchase. Whether you’re in the market for something sleek and sporty or something a bit bigger, larger and more accommodating, we have just the model for you. 

Toyota Avensis

For those more familiar with the old Toyota Corona, the Avensis is the latest genetically improved model with a fresh design. It has its own individual styling, in place with the European design, yet keeps away from the typical Korean copycats. It’s sharp looking vehicle; look out for double takes to the car (and if you’re in luck, the driver). The interior is hugely spacious; more so than the outgoing model. The vehicle is incredibly functional, with all the gizmos easy to find and use. The bluetooth with voice control is very simple to use – it allows your phone to automatically connect and stream its own music files direct to the decent stereo. Despite the engine staying at the same 2.0l four cylinder as before, the biggest change is the seven speed automatic which not only makes for very satisfying driving as you smoothly shift through each of the gears but improves fuel economy notably. While nothing particularly stands out in the vehicle as being really brilliant, it is comfortable, ergonomic and worth considering in comparison to other cars’ in the same price bracket. With Toyota’s quantified reputation in quality cars that actually last (most notably the global JD power survey), this is likely to be a big seller for them, for very good reasons. The Toyota Avensis starts from $47,990 RRP.

Toyota Prius V

When I first heard “7-seater”, I immediately thought I would be test driving some form of old school people mover; how thoroughly embarrassing! However, I was pleasantly surprised with the Prius v, surely the first 7-seater hybrid in New Zealand, as I found it to be far more undercover even with its internally bulging proportions. It seems to me the ‘v’ stands for versatile and in my view it lives up to its name. The vehicle has been marketed by Toyota as the “ideal solution for businesses wanting a vehicle that is as sustainable as it is practical”. It is a comfortable and economical vehicle, which could seat up to five adults and a whole heap of weekend party material in the back. By folding down the third row of seats you are provided with an incredible 505 litres of load space in the rear to fill with all manner of Louis Vuitton luggage, real or not. I’m impressed, it’s knowingly the leading hybrid model by the leading global manufacturer, seriously, it really is the future available now. This vehicle is perfect for those looking for the thriftiest of vehicles with a surprising amount of room. Go on, even your Mum would be proud. The Prius v base model starts at $50,990 RRP and the team at North Shore Toyota have vehicles available for test driving today!

Lexus GS250

The GS lineup from Lexus is now utterly worthy of the badge and as a strong alternative to European variants. In fact, it even exudes it own version of design style that eclipses the Germanics. The earliest GS was created by the legendary Italian master designer Giugiaro. This fourth generation has returned with an assertive style that clearly gets the public attention. Not surprisingly, this car was incredible to drive. From the moment you slide into the driver’s seat, you experience superior luxury, notably the quality of the materials and exemplary finishing details. The car has seats that can be air conditioned, depending on your mood (and who is sitting in the passenger seat!). Lexus still stands as the market leader in ride quality and interior calm. They haven’t forgotten about the aural pleasures, with a squirt of the go pedal producing a somewhat intoxicating roar, similar to Tarzan. Lexus NZ states this car will become the backbone of the sales for the company over this year and I don’t doubt that. The Lexus GS250 starts from $102,900 RRP. Friendly Dennis at North Shore Lexus can show you the goods!

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