Toyota Platinum Etios

While still no looker, the Platinum Etios is a whole lot nicer on the outside than the original from 2010. It’s nicer-finished and better-equipped on the inside too but the cabin – which is characterised by the dashboard with its central-mounted instruments, still doesn’t look particularly rich. The highlights of the cabin remain its massive space and excellent rear-seat comfort. You can also fit lots of luggage into the Etios’ cavernous 592-litre boot.
The Etios’ 90hp, 1.5-litre petrol engine offers decent tractability and linear power delivery but gets noisy when revved hard. Toyota’s 68hp, 1.4-litre diesel isn’t quiet either, and lacks the punch for highway driving. However, the diesel is responsive and works well in town. Slick 5-speed manual gearboxes and light steering add to the Etios Platinum’s ease of driving.

There’s a substantial price gap between the petrol and diesel versions of the Etios and you’ll really have to see your running to determine if the latter makes sense for you. Our pick of the Platinum Etios range is the petrol in the mid-spec V-trim. It gets dual airbags and ABS, and also features a 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth, all for reasonable money.