The second generation Avensis was launched in February 2003, in an all new format this time it offered more in the way of driver involvement and visual appeal. Models for private use and post-facelift taxis were Avensis, just like in the rest of Europe. In Greece, the Toyota Corona had long been synonymous with 'taxi', so Avensis' sold for taxi use received 'Toyota Corona' badging until the 2000 facelift. In Argentina and Brazil, it was sold as the Toyota Corona (as seen on brochures), but in Chile and Peru, it was sold as the Corona Avensis. The first generation Avensis was also sold in South America. The engines were fitted with variable valve timing, satellite navigation was included as a standard feature along the range and the sporty Avensis 2.0 L SR (with body kit and tuned suspension) was added but overall sales remained low. The first generation Avensis received a facelift in August 2000. All of the range gave solid build quality, excellent reliability, a spacious comfortable interior, generous equipment, smooth ride quality and good refinement, but very little in the way of excitement. The station wagon was essentially the Japanese-market second generation Toyota Caldina. The first generation Avensis had the option of four engines (1.6-, 1.8- and 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel) and three body styles (saloon, hatchback and estate).

At the same time, production of the five-door Toyota Corolla also started at the British plant. The car was built at the Burnaston factory in Derby. Although an extensive revamp of the previous generation Carina E, the only main common parts were the engines, with an all new style of body. Toyota introduced the Avensis nameplate on its new model, which was launched at the end of 1997.

Corona renderer 2.0