2001 Toyota Avalon: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Redesigned last year, America's only import-brand full-size sedan gets an in-trunk emergency release as its only change for 2001. Avalon offers XL and uplevel XLS models with V6, automatic transmission, antilock, 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, and choice of bench or bucket front seats. XLS offers optional antiskid system with integrated traction control and Toyota's full-power Brake Assist emergency-stop feature.

COMPETITION

This segment has been hardest hit by the huge popularity of sport-utility vehicles. Just a few years ago there were more than 12 cars in the segment and now there are just seven. Heading up the field as Best Buys are the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid twins. They have real room for six, exceptional road manners, and plenty of power.

Toyota's Avalon and Buick's LeSabre are two Recommended choices. Both have room for five and offer a comfortable ride (with modest handling capabilities). If you are looking for towing ability or don't mind having a rear-drive car, then we recommend you take a look at the Ford Crown Victoria. With its rear-drive layout and body-on-frame chassis it's a dinosaur in this class, but Ford has updated it nicely over the years and it comes at a reasonable price.