Supported LaCoO3 perovskites with 10 wt.% loading were prepared by impregnation of different supports containing ceria with a solution of La and Co nitrates and citric acid. All precursors were calcined at 700 degrees C for 5 h. XRD investigations indicated the perovskite formation via "citrate" precursor only on ceria support. All catalysts were tested for toluene total oxidation in the temperature range 100-600 degrees C. In spite of a large surface area, alumina-supported perovskites showed a lower global activity. It appears then the necessity of the presence of a perovskite phase for good oxidative activity. In terms of reaction rates higher reaction rates per perovskite weight were observed for all supported catalysts when compared to bulk LaCoO3. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.