2009 Toyota Avalon Review

Specifications

The Avalon is Toyota’s only full-size sedan, designed with North American drivers in mind. Classed as a large sedan, its chief competition includes the Chrysler 300, Buick Lucerne, Mercury Sable and Ford Taurus. However, Consumer Reports rates the Avalon at the top in its class stating it ‘is a lot of car for the money’ and with a base price of $27,845, we tend to agree.

In 2005, the Avalon had a full facelift inside and out. Gone were the mundanelooks of the first and second-generation models, replaced with the streamlined good looks in keeping with the rest of Toyota’s line up. The rear seat has a nearly flat floor and the spacious feel of limousine-like room.

Under the hood lies a peppy 3.5-Liter DOHC 24-valve Dual VVT-i V6 that produces 268 hp at 6200 rpm and 248 lb-ft at 4700 rpm that pushes the Avalon from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. Compared to the competition, the Avalon is only a mere .4 of a second behind the Chrysler 300 but full a second and a half faster then the similarly power Dodge Charger and Buick Lucerne.

New for 2008 was the six speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) and sequential shift. It is smooth and supple, offering quiet shifting that never seems to miss. The front-wheel drive Avalon rides comfortably but the suspension could be considered a little soft at highway speeds. The handing is responsive and sporty for a big car and the light steering is a dream at slow speeds.

The third generation interior is flawless. The materials as well as fit and finish are exceptionally smooth and ergonomically designed. Pleasing to the eye with everything within reach, the Avalon may be a mid-class sedan but it screams of luxury.

Standard interior features on all three models include tilt/telescoping steering wheel, center console with sliding armrest and cup holder, multi function information display with audio, message, climate control, outside temp and trip meter. The dual zone climate control, two 12V auxiliary power outlets and blue tooth capability, power windows and locks, cruise control and remote hood, trunk

and fuel-filler door releases add convenience to this already decked out sedan. The reclining rear seat splits 60/40 with a center armrest, cup holders and a locking trunk pass-through.

The XL includes fabric multi-adjustable seats with power lumbar support, multi function in key remote keyless entry, a 6 disc in dash AM/FM, MP3/WMA playback with nine speakers, auxiliary jack, front map lights and reading lamps in the rear.

The XLS upgrades the interior with leather trimmed multi adjustable front seats with power lumbar support in the driver’s seat, leather wrapped steering wheel and an optional JBL Synthesis AM/FM 6-disc in dash CD changer with MP3/WMA playback and satellite enable, auxiliary jack and hands free phone via Bluetooth. Speakers are upgraded to twelve units and a subwoofer. Or, choose the same as well as an integrated DVD navigation system.

The Limited edition is loaded. The perforated leather power adjustable, ventilated and heated front seats have power lumbar support and the driver’s includes seat cushion extension and a memory system that is linked to the outside mirrors. The Limited also includes a Smart Key System with Push Button Start and remote illuminated entry with puddle lamps.

Safety ratings are what you would expect from Toyota with the Avalon offering impressive results in all tests. Front seat-mounted airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are standard as are traction control, stability control and antilock brakes with brake assist.

The 2009 Toyota Avalon is our top pick for large sedans. With the price tag, Consumer Reports is right - it is a lot of car! At 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, this is an exceptional car for anyone who drives long distances or needs the full-size sedan with the comfortable ride bordering more on the side of luxury.