Toyota's biggest car is redesigned for 2005, getting larger and more powerful, but losing seating for six. The 2000-2004 Avalon was America's only import-brand 6-passenger sedan. The '05 mandates front bucket seats and a floor console with transmission lever in place of an available bench seat and steering-column shift. Avalon gains 4 inches in wheelbase and almost 6 inches overall. It's slightly taller and wider, too, though an inch more rear leg room is the interior's only significant expansion. A 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 replaces a 210-hp 3.0 as the sole engine. A 5-speed automatic transmission supplants a 4-speed. XL, Touring, XLS, and top-line Limited models are offered. The Touring is Avalon's first "sporty" version, distinguished from other models by a firmer suspension, rear spoiler, and trim details. All come with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. XL has 16-inch wheels, the others 17s. A traction/antiskid system is available for XLS and Limited. Front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and a driver knee airbag are included on all. Among new standard features are a steering wheel that telescopes as well as tilts, and a reclining rear seatback. All but XL come with leather upholstery. Exclusive to Limited are standard heated and cooled front seats and keyless ignition. A navigation system is an XLS and Limited option. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.