1st impressions when car arrived in 2003 were excellent - good looking car and classy (at the time). However over the last couple of years have had hire cars for various reasons (Vectra, Focus) which have shown up the Avensis' short comings (as highlighted above). Reliability has been good apart from boot lid only opening 1/2 way and electric seat motor failed. Opted for the pop-up colour sat-nav which I would highly recommend.
Would I have another? If Toyota sorted out the overly firm suspension, improved steering response (and turning circle), upped the power of the diesel and improved the stereo, then yes. Otherwise there are far better for the money.