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Toyota's full-size car is little-changed after its 2005 redesign. Toyota Avalon is a front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger sedan offered in XL, Touring, XLS, and top-line Limited trim. All have a 3.5-liter V6, 5-speed automatic transmission, and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Traction control is optional for XL and Touring, not available otherwise. Also standard: front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and a driver knee airbag. XL and Limited offer an optional antiskid system that is now available for Touring and XLS and includes heated front seats. The XL has 16-inch wheels, the others 17s. The sportier Touring comes with firmer suspension, rear spoiler, and unique trim. Exclusive to Limited are standard keyless ignition and heated/cooled power front seats with memory system. Leather upholstery is standard except on XL. All models include tilt/telescope steering wheel with audio and climate controls, plus split folding rear seat with reclining backrests. A navigation system is available for XLS and Limited. A dealer-installed towing package is a new '06 option for all Toyota Avalons.
Toyota Avalon has only just begun its current design generation, so only minor near-term changes are likely. A possible exception would be the addition of a gasoline/electric powertrain. Toyota says it wants to make hybrid power just another option for most of its cars and trucks. When might Toyota Avalon get it? That seems to depend mainly on availability of electric-drive components from Toyota suppliers. But now that a hybrid Camry is coming out of Toyota's Kentucky plant, we'd look for a hybrid Toyota Avalon fairly soon, perhaps within two years.
Toyota Avalon no longer leads its class in refinement, room, or interior ambience, yet remains a no-brainer Best Buy. Among its many assets are a benchmark V6 powertrain, solid feel, composed ride, and surprisingly adept handling, plus Toyota's strong track record for quality, reliability, and resale value.
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