Base Price: $27,735
Price as Tested: $38,824
Why We Drove It: The Toyota Avalon is a top-ranked vehicle in its class in the 2007 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study and Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, the latter of which measures consumer satisfaction with a vehicle s performance and design. The Avalon also receives top-notch crash test scores and is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class according to the EPA.


The Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan that has served as the flagship of the company s car lineup since 1995. Last redesigned for 2005, the Avalon is based on the previous-generation Camry platform, stretched to create this full-size sedan. Toyota says that the Avalon provides  sport sedan performance with luxurious ride and comfort,  and that the Avalon is  the platinum standard  in its class.


Here is what changed on the 2008 Toyota Avalon:
. New front bumper, grille and headlight design
. Smoked taillight lenses
. Redesigned wheels on Touring and Limited models
. Chrome door handles come standard
. New six-speed automatic with sequential shift feature
. Revised braking system with larger rear discs
. Power front passenger s seat now available on XL model
. XLS and Limited can be equipped with 8-way power front passenger s seat
. New multi-function display
. More chrome interior accents
. Six-disc CD changer with iPod auxiliary input jack
. Optional JBL audio package now includes Bluetooth wireless connectivity


The 2008 Toyota Avalon is available in four trim levels: XL, XLS, Touring and Limited. Choosing XLS trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, high-intensity discharge headlights, fog lights, a power moonroof, heated outside mirrors, leather upholstery, wood interior trim, a Homelink universal transmitter, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 4-way power front passenger s seat, and an anti-theft system to the XL model. The Limited increases the standard equipment list with unique wheels, Smart Key unlocking and ignition, rain-sensing windshield wipers, outside mirrors with puddle lamps and LED signal indicators, heated and ventilated front seats, a power driver s seat cushion extender, a power rear sunshade, memory for the mirrors and driver s seat, a wood-and-leather steering wheel, and a JBL Synthesis audio system.


The Toyota Avalon Touring is based on the XL model, and is aimed at buyers looking for something a little bit sporty. It includes 17-inch alloy wheels, HID headlights, fog lights, a rear lip spoiler, different suspension tuning, black leather upholstery, and a 4-way power adjustable front passenger s seat.


Because the Avalon is well equipped in standard format, options are few. Avalon XL can have a power sunroof, remote engine starting, an anti-theft alarm, and Toyota s traction and stability control system which includes brake assist. The XLS is also the buyer s ticket to a navigation system and a JBL Synthesis audio system. Limited models can be equipped further with dynamic laser cruise control. Touring versions are offered with all but the dynamic cruise control system, in addition to heated front seats, heated outside mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a Homelink universal transmitter.


The 2008 Toyota Avalon is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine making 268 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4700 rpm on regular unleaded fuel. The engine is mated to a new 6-speed automatic transmission with a sequential manual shift feature, and drives the front wheels.


Standard safety features on the 2008 Toyota Avalon include seven airbags with side curtains and a driver s knee airbag, a tire pressure monitor, and antilock brakes. Stability control with traction control and brake assist is an option on all models.


J.D. Power and Associates says the Toyota Avalon competes against large cars like the Buick Lucerne, Chrysler 300 and Mercury Sable.
