The Toyota Avanza II 1.5 (104 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2011 and 2015, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s entry-level Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) primarily targeted towards the Southeast Asian market. Positioned as a practical and affordable seven-seater, the Avanza II aimed to provide family transportation with a focus on space efficiency and ease of use. This specific 1.5-liter, 104 horsepower variant with an automatic transmission served as a mid-range offering within the Avanza II lineup, bridging the gap between the base models and potentially more equipped trims. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a convenient automatic transmission without the higher cost of larger engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Avanza |
| Generation | Avanza II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (104 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 95.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 124.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 104 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 4400 rpm, 100.31 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2NR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1495 cm3, 91.23 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm, 2.83 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 91.8 mm, 3.61 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l, 3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt |
| Coolant | 6.1 l, 6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1090 kg, 2403.04 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1700 kg, 3747.86 lbs |
| Max load | 610 kg, 1344.82 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l, 11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal |
| Length | 4140 mm, 162.99 in |
| Width | 1660 mm, 65.35 in |
| Height | 1695 mm, 66.73 in |
| Wheelbase | 2655 mm, 104.53 in |
| Front track | 1425 mm, 56.1 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1435 mm, 56.5 in |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14; 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Avanza II 1.5 Automatic is the 2NR-FE engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Toyota’s NR engine family, known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The 2NR-FE utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and power output. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produces 104 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 136 Nm (100.31 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting, coupled with a rear-wheel-drive configuration, was a notable characteristic, differentiating it from many contemporary front-wheel-drive MPVs. The automatic transmission is a conventional four-speed unit, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. While not offering the most advanced gear ratios, it provided a comfortable and convenient driving experience for everyday use.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine and four-speed automatic transmission combination in the Avanza II delivered adequate, but not particularly spirited, performance. Acceleration was modest, with the vehicle prioritizing fuel economy and smooth operation over outright speed. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for everyday driving, providing reasonable responsiveness in urban environments. However, overtaking maneuvers on highways required careful planning. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.5, the automatic resulted in a slight performance decrease due to the transmission’s inherent efficiency losses. Higher-trim Avanza models equipped with a 1.8-liter engine offered significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience, but at a higher price point. The rear-wheel-drive layout provided a unique driving feel, although it didn’t offer the same level of handling precision as a front-wheel-drive vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Avanza II 1.5 Automatic typically came equipped with basic amenities suitable for a family vehicle. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and additional comfort features like fog lamps. Optional extras often included a roof rack, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim materials. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Avanza II utilized a body-on-frame construction, contributing to its robust and durable nature. The front suspension employed a McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride. The rear suspension featured an independent multi-link design with a stabilizer bar, enhancing stability and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a standard safety feature. The chassis was tuned to prioritize ride comfort and practicality over sporty handling, reflecting the vehicle’s intended use as a family transporter. The rear drum brakes were a cost-saving measure, and while adequate for normal driving, they didn’t offer the same stopping power as rear disc brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Avanza II 1.5 Automatic was generally well-received in its target markets, particularly in Southeast Asia. Critics praised its spacious interior, affordability, and practicality. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of power, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Fuel economy was a strong point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to other MPVs in its class, such as the Honda Mobilio, the Avanza offered a more affordable price point, but often lacked the same level of refinement and features. The rear-wheel-drive layout was also a differentiating factor, offering a different driving experience compared to the predominantly front-wheel-drive competition.
Legacy
The Toyota Avanza II 1.5 Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The 2NR-FE engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. The automatic transmission, while not the most technologically advanced, has also proven to be dependable. In the used car market, the Avanza II 1.5 Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and practical MPV. Its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability continue to make it a compelling option, even as newer MPV models have emerged. However, potential buyers should be aware of the vehicle’s modest performance and the limitations of the rear drum brakes.
