There are three versions, the XL, Touring, XLS, and top-line Limited model. We would either get the bargain priced entry level XL or go for the better handling Touring model because we like a firmer ride. All come with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and most have 17-inch rims. Unfortunately, the traction/antiskid system is only available for XLS and Limited models. Other safety features include front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and a driver knee airbag, and ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist. Optional safety features for XLS and Limited are Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control.
All the models have the reclining rear seatbacks and telescoping steering wheel, but if you want leather you have to order the more upscale models and if you want the heated and cooled seats and the keyless ignition the Limited model is the one. A fairly good navigation system is also available on the Limited and XLS. The system can be voice activated, but it wasn't as easy to use as those from some manufactures.
Inside, the Avalon is most attractive. There is a clean look about it, but more importantly it is a statement that this is an upscale vehicle. There isn't any sportiness here; just an attempt to put things in order just like you would do before a visit from the in-laws. There are retracting lids that cover the audio and GPS controls that simplify the dash, but take a while to master since they are on a flat angle and difficult to read. The gauge lighting does not fatigue you while driving at night. Lexus, I mean Toyota, calls them Optitron instruments and they are elegant. On the downside, I did find the driver's manual font too small and I missed the double glove compartments like they have on the LS Lexus, but that were my only concerns about the interior.
Overall, this was a truly wonderful car to drive. It was accommodating, thrifty and had some equipment I wished every vehicle had such as a rear screen that you can deploy to cut down on headlight glare, especially from those raised trucks and SUVs that come up behind you at stop lights. The second item is the marvelous rear seats that have the backrests that can be slightly reclined. My only worry was that the large rounded sides of the Avalon make easy picking for door swingers in parking lots. I can see a line of dents in those door panels if you have to park in lots that were approved of by city planning commissions that were more interested in appeasing developers than providing adequate parking for customers.
Dad's view: I didn't get much seat time in the Avalon. The grandparents and wife kept it busy gulping down large links of highways. What I did surmise is that the handling is gracious when dealing with frost heaves and bumps, but may be too accommodating when sharp maneuvers and corners come into play. Regardless, this is a bargain and one would have to be foolish not to give it a test if they enjoyed economic touring.
The XL is such a bargain that I had to call around to make sure the MSRP was accurate. For about $26,350 you get the big and very powerful V6 engine, AM/FM/cassette/CD stereo with nine speakers, dual-zone climate control, and an air filtration. Also available are the remote keyless entry, power door locks, power windows, steering-wheel-mounted audio and climate controls, multi-function information display, and trip computer. You can add laser cruise control, an engine immobilizer, a tilt and telescoping steering column, and a full sized spare tire with an alloy rim to that list.
I liked that combination, but for a couple of grand more you can get the Touring version with firmer shocks and springs, special Michelin 215/55s, 17-inch wheels, leather, and -intensity-discharge headlights. This would be my choice. The more expensive XLS adds a power moonroof, four-way adjustable power passenger seat, in-dash six-disc CD changer, dual heated outside mirrors, auto-dimming electrochromic driver's side, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and Homelink. The premier Limited, has all of that plus a better 360-watt JBL audio system with six-disc CD changer and 12 speakers, power rear sunshade, power driver's seat cushion length adjuster, Smart Key system, and trim items. Value wise nothing can compare.
All the models have the reclining rear seatbacks and telescoping steering wheel, but if you want leather you have to order the more upscale models and if you want the heated and cooled seats and the keyless ignition the Limited model is the one. A fairly good navigation system is also available on the Limited and XLS. The system can be voice activated, but it wasn't as easy to use as those from some manufactures.
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| 2005 Toyota Avalon |
Overall, this was a truly wonderful car to drive. It was accommodating, thrifty and had some equipment I wished every vehicle had such as a rear screen that you can deploy to cut down on headlight glare, especially from those raised trucks and SUVs that come up behind you at stop lights. The second item is the marvelous rear seats that have the backrests that can be slightly reclined. My only worry was that the large rounded sides of the Avalon make easy picking for door swingers in parking lots. I can see a line of dents in those door panels if you have to park in lots that were approved of by city planning commissions that were more interested in appeasing developers than providing adequate parking for customers.
Dad's view: I didn't get much seat time in the Avalon. The grandparents and wife kept it busy gulping down large links of highways. What I did surmise is that the handling is gracious when dealing with frost heaves and bumps, but may be too accommodating when sharp maneuvers and corners come into play. Regardless, this is a bargain and one would have to be foolish not to give it a test if they enjoyed economic touring.
The XL is such a bargain that I had to call around to make sure the MSRP was accurate. For about $26,350 you get the big and very powerful V6 engine, AM/FM/cassette/CD stereo with nine speakers, dual-zone climate control, and an air filtration. Also available are the remote keyless entry, power door locks, power windows, steering-wheel-mounted audio and climate controls, multi-function information display, and trip computer. You can add laser cruise control, an engine immobilizer, a tilt and telescoping steering column, and a full sized spare tire with an alloy rim to that list.
I liked that combination, but for a couple of grand more you can get the Touring version with firmer shocks and springs, special Michelin 215/55s, 17-inch wheels, leather, and -intensity-discharge headlights. This would be my choice. The more expensive XLS adds a power moonroof, four-way adjustable power passenger seat, in-dash six-disc CD changer, dual heated outside mirrors, auto-dimming electrochromic driver's side, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and Homelink. The premier Limited, has all of that plus a better 360-watt JBL audio system with six-disc CD changer and 12 speakers, power rear sunshade, power driver's seat cushion length adjuster, Smart Key system, and trim items. Value wise nothing can compare.