Saloon & Hatchback Toyotas

While refinement across the Toyota range is sometimes described as patchy, the handling on each is top quality. In particular, the Avensis range (which can come in hatchback, estate or saloon configurations) is a sleek passenger-accommodating car designed for a cool city drive. More recent releases of the Aygo and Yaris are zippy and nimble for first-time drivers and fans of the supermini.

Crash Safety & Fuel Efficiency

No problems on any of Toyota's ranges, but in particular for their newest model, the Auris, and also for the Corolla, which both scored full marks in adult safety and top marks in child protection.

In general, Toyotas are affordable models - not just for personal use but popular for company car usage. The RAV4 has a particularly good fuel economy for a four wheel drive, with the diesel model pushing 40 mpg. The Aygo, however, can average an amazing 60 mpg - and the savings keep rolling in with the low insurance bracket.

Standard Interior Electronics

Cabin interiors are crisp and roomy on Toyotas, in particular their effort on the MPV scene, the Verso, with room for seven inside. On larger car models, expect a decadence of standard features. For the Aygo and Yaris, features tend to vary, with some entry level models coming with basic kit.