2005-2008 Toyota Avalon: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Toyota redesigned its largest car for 2005 and a showroom debut early that calendar year. Though retaining front-wheel drive, the third-generation Avalon boasted fresh looks, increased size and more power, but no longer claimed title as America's only import-brand 6-passenger sedan. Avalon had offered an optional front bench seat with steering-column transmission lever, but the '05s came only with front bucket seats and a floor console shifter. Against the 2000-2004 models, the redesign added a sizeable 4 inches to wheelbase and almost half-a-foot to overall length, plus a bit more width and height. Even so, an inch more rear leg room was the only notable gain in interior space. Avalon continued with a single powertrain, but the engine was Toyota's new 3.5-liter V6, initially rated at 280 hp and replacing a 210-hp 3.0. It paired with a 5-speed automatic, supplanting a 4-speed transmission. Price levels expanded from two to four, ascending from XL through Touring, XLS and Limited versions. As the first "sporty" Avalon, the Touring came with a firmer suspension, rear spoiler and special trim. All models came with antilock four-wheel disc brakes, plus front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and a first-time driver's knee airbag. Traction/antiskid control was available for XLS and Limited, but curiously not for the Touring. Leather seating and 17-inch wheels were standard except for XL, which came with 16-inch rims and cloth upholstery. Newly standard across the line were reclining backrests for a split folding rear seat and a steering wheel with telescopic as well as tilt adjustment. Exclusive to Limited were heated/cooled front seats and keyless starting, both standard, plus an optional adaptive cruise control designed to main a set following distance. A navigation system was available for XLS and Limited, while a sunroof was restricted to XL and Touring. Xenon headlamps were standard for Touring and Limited.