Toyota refreshed the Avensis lineup in 2000, after just three years on the market, improving both its exterior and engines.
The Japanese carmaker was already known for its dependable products but lacked in the design department and comfort features. The refreshed version tried to fix those issues and, up to some point, it succeeded. But the customers still chose the Avensis for its reliability.

Some chrome trims enhanced its bland styling on the grille and clear-lens headlights. It was designed more for fleet users, where the total cost of ownership was more valued than the car’s look. Toyota replaced the formerly used smiling grille from the front lower bumper area with a straight design at the front. At the back, the Avensis station wagon featured redesigned taillights with square reversing lights and white upper sides.

The most significant aesthetic change was inside, where the carmaker installed a new center stack with a stereo mounted on the top. Also, the instrument cluster looked more refined than on the non-facelifted version. But its main asset was the trunk space, which provided 580 liters (20.5 cu-ft) with the rear seats up, and 1,996 liters with the bench folded.

Under the hood, Toyota installed a new engine generation fitted with variable valve timing. Unfortunately, the base version was powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline unit that provided a mere 110 hp, way less than its competitors. Besides, the fuel efficiency was not as good as expected.