PARTS for the new Toyota Avensis are 41% cheaper than the Carina E it replaces, according to the manufacturer. Using industry figures for a basket of 12 major parts typically damaged in front and rear accidents Avensis would cost £1,093.40.

The same parts for the Carina E would have £1,844.75, £751.35 more. Replacement parts covered were the bonnet, front wing, headlamp (excluding bulb), rear and front bumper covers, tailgate, rear quarter panel, front panel, front indicator, radiator, combination light, and radiator grille.

The same parts for the Nissan Primera were £1,358,80, up 20% on the Avensis, Peugeot 406 £1,407.36 (23% higher), Vauxhall Vectra £1,105.75 (1%), Ford Mondeo £1,195.63 (9%) and Volkswagen Passat £1,400.39 (22%). However, all the other manufacturers provided cheaper radiators and radiator grilles, with Vauxhall, Peugeot and Ford beating the Avensis on at least four items.