2000-2004 Toyota Avalon: Road Test

Toyota sought quieter running in the reworked Avalon, and handily achieved that goal. Except for mild tire rumble over very coarse pavement, this Avalon is a pleasantly hushed automobile. Even hard acceleration produces only a distant, rich engine sound. Acceleration is a tad better than before, thanks to little-changed weight and 10 extra horsepower--sufficient for nearly any situation. A test Avalon reached 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, and also averaged 21 mpg. The responsive automatic transmission is glassy smooth. Premium fuel is advised. Not only is the ride comfortable--close to plush, in fact--but drivers enjoy improved body control and firmer, more-communicative steering. The new Avalon dashes through twisty roads with almost sports-sedan poise--well-ahead of domestic rivals. Only a couple of quibbles have come up, including a bit of body drumming over rough patches, and slightly unprogressive pedal action in routine braking. In the seriously spacious interior, 6-footers can ride in tandem, with plenty of leg-stretching room for both. Higher-set seats are matched by a raised roofline that provides fine all-around head room. Three adults fit adequately on front and back seats, though middle riders must straddle a hump and may lack foot room. Rear entry/exit is easy enough, and all seats are comfortably supportive. Though not as long as the old Avalon's trunk, the new one is taller with plenty of space. Climate and audio controls couldn't be better, but the steering-wheel rim can obscure the tops of gauges without some juggling of seat and wheel. Abundant space is provided for small-item stowage, including a massive glovebox. Visibility is good despite hard-to-see rear body corners, and mirrors are usefully large.

Value for the Money
Spacious and posh, quiet and smooth-riding, the Avalon delivers Lexus-like attributes at a family oriented price. Approaching the near-luxury league in features, comfort, and functional roadability, it could be the best full-size sedan on the market.