More to the ultra-functional Avanza than meets the eye

Toyota Avanza 1.5 G CVT

- By ERIC TIPAN

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that there is a seven-seater Toyota with SUV-type ground clearance, showcasing a full complement of airbags (driver, front passenger, side, and curtain), blind-spot monitoring, and even rear cross-traffic alert at just a smidge over one million pesos (P1.071 million). It's the top-of-the-line Avanza G.

The shape may be too boxy for many because that's the feedback I get from several people, but I'll tell you how its 'end' justifies the means. The wide grille (that borrows design cues from Lexus' spindle grille), prominent body lines, shapely tailgate, and rear roof spoiler more than make up for it.

Compared to a few rivals in the segment, this ultra-affordable MPV also has better (and slimmer) lighting equipment, like LED split-type headlamps and rear combination lamps. Plus, it has a clearance lamp, front fog lamps, and even turn signal lamps on the side view mirror.

Granted, it isn't the most stylish MPV, has no wraparound body cladding, and sits on 16-inch alloys, but I don't think it will ever be wrong for a multipurpose vehicle to prioritize function over form.