2005 Toyota Avalon

Since its initial 1995 launch, the Avalon sedan has served as the flagship car for Toyota, positioned above the ever-popular Camry. A larger, more sophisticated sedan, the Avalon has always addressed the needs of mature buyers. Finding its place in the market, the Avalon splits between segments, also offering a bigger vehicle than the near-lux cars from the premium brands at the same price point. Now in its third-generation, the Avalon continues this strategy, providing even more interior space, power, and creature comforts.

The new Avalon was fast-tracked to production in just 18 months, from styling approval to rolling down the Georgetown, Kentucky, assembly line. The quickest development time for any North American-produced Toyota enables the Avalon to feel quite modern, with all the latest technology and features in place.

With sheetmetal that can only be described as upscale and elegant, the new Avalon grew considerably over the commodious 2004 model, with the size increase measured at 5.3 inches in length, 1.2 inches in width, and 1.4 inches in height. The sloped front clip is dressed with a horizontal grille that accentuates the sedan's width. Down the side, a deep beltline crease gives character, and its angle emphasizes forward momentum, and hence speed. Again, the rear-pillar is upright and bold, flattening the roof arch and preserving rear headroom. Head and taillamp designs remind of the Camry, but enlarged for Avalon application with high-performance halogen bulbs standard and high-intensity discharge units available. Dual rear exhaust is a nice finishing touch.

The interior makes a dramatic first impression, especially on top trim levels where the expansive surfaces are nicely broken by wood trim. XL and Touring cars use a metallic garnish. The swoopy dash arc flows to encompass the easy-to-read instrument panel and the center control stack, topped with a large, multi-function display for audio, message, interior climate, outside temperature, and trip computer information.

XL models feature cloth upholstery, while Touring and XLS are treated to leather, and the more exclusive Limited has perforated leather. Due to limited customer interest, there is no front bench seat offered on the new Avalon.

Standard features count basic power amenities, nine-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, tilt/telescope steering wheel, and remote keyless entry. Interior accouterments ratchet up significantly with each advancing trim level. Select the XLS for moonroof, indash CD changer, dual heated side mirrors, aluminum scuff plates, electrochromatic rearview mirror with compass, and anti-theft system. The Limited advances the car to Lexus comfort levels, with heated/cooled front seats, with driver cushion length adjustability, Smart Key touch-button starting, power rear shade, and premium JBL Synthesis stereo system with warm, clear sound.

All variants benefit from creative storage solutions, with large, foldout map pockets and a cavernous center console with a cell phone hanger and dedicated power point.

Seats are relatively flat, easing ingress/egress, and they lean to the firm side, proving supportive on long drives. The welcomed adjustability finds a weakness in ability to lower the seat just a bit more for headroom and improved line of site for average-height males. The ventilated seats are a treat for those driving in extreme temperatures, hot or cold. The rear seat provides limo-grade legroom, and the seatback recline further aids comfort. The spring-loaded seatback snaps upright with a lever pull, where headroom becomes less generous. Rear vents and a center, fold-down armrest with cup holders add to the second-row pampering.