John Owens, from Bristol, recently decided it was time to trade in his old cab for something new. John, who has been in the private hire business for over fifteen years, had been driving a Skoda Octavia but decided to opt for something a bit more luxurious this time round.
John explains: “I’ve driven plenty of vehicles from a range of manufacturers over the years. There are 16 of us at the company I work for – Keynsham Cars – and quite a few of the lads already have Toyotas. The Avensis really looks the part and I know they are reliable too so that was my preference. I was already aware that Cab Direct offers savings to people who work in the taxi trade so they were my first port of call.”
Taxi Trade Exclusive Savings
“I was already aware that Cab Direct offers savings to people who work in the taxi trade so they were my first port of call.”
John continues: “Because of the discount being offered on the car, I was able to go for the third model in the line-up – the Icon Business Edition. Obviously it’s a bit dearer than the entry model, Active, but when you’re saving that much money, it’s well worth it. The service I received from Cab Direct was brilliant too – I dealt with John in the call centre and he was great all the way through.
“The only down side,” laughs John, “Is the other drivers aren’t speaking to me anymore – I’ve been dubbed the office snob! The car has everything. It’s an absolute pleasure to drive – so much so, I don’t feel like I’m going to work anymore.”
Comfort and Drive
The Avensis Tourer offers a spacious and stylish estate, ideal for long distance drivers who demand comfort, practicality and strong fuel economy.
Inside it’s quiet and comfortable, with excellent sound insulation creating a peaceful environment free of unwanted engine and road noise. In addition, Toyota’s ‘Optimal Drive’ engine technology ensures good performance and excellent fuel economy, as well as low emissions which mean low road tax too.
John says: “The car drives beautifully. It handles superbly for a car of its size. My daughter had a go the other day and was really envious. Customers have been really impressed too – particularly with the comfort and specification.”
Trim Levels
The Avensis Tourer comes with a choice of four trim levels – Active, Icon, Icon Business Edition and Excel – all of which are well-equipped with the latest Toyota multimedia and navigation systems included as standard on Icon Business Edition and Excel models.
Opt for the higher spec model, like John, and your working day will be enhanced with rain sensing wipers, cruise control, steering wheel mounted Bluetooth controls, powered lumbar support, dusk sensing headlamps, leather seat trim and more. And let’s not forget the all important exterior upgrades which include 17” alloys, electrically retracting door mirrors, front fog lamps and privacy glass.
Capacious
Plus, with a cavernous 543 litre boot capacity, the Avensis Tourer provides plenty of luggage carrying capacity too – essential for any taxi driver. There’s plenty of head and leg room too, plus numerous clever storage spaces to ensure you and your passengers enjoy a relaxing and comfortable ride every fare.
John says: “I had a job from Heathrow to Bristol the other day. It was just two passengers but they had three cases between them and two bits of hand luggage. The boot swallowed it up. In the back, the guy had the armrest down and actually commented on how spacious and comfortable the car is. It’s the prefect vehicle for the job.”
For more information on the Toyota Avensis call Cab Direct free on the number at the top of the page, email info@cabdirect.com or click Toyota Avensis here.