2005 TOYOTA Avalon

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PRICE ALERT

$5,995
$1,597
below average
192,249 Miles
35,484
Miles above average

Vehicle Details

Mileage: 192249
Color: Blue
Body Style: Sedan
Transmission: Automatic
Engine Type: 6 Cyl
Drive Train: 2WD
Fuel: Gasoline
Location: Muldraugh, KY
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Option & Equipment

CD (Single Disc)
Anti-Lock Brakes
Daytime Running Lights
Engine Immobilizer
Front Airbags (Driver)
Front Airbags (Passenger)
Front Side Airbags
Adjustable Steering Wheel
Air Conditioning
Power Locks
Power Steering
Power Windows
AM/FM
Cassette

Recalls & Defects

VIN 4T1BK36B65U051186 may have been recalled. Check full report for more information

STEERING:COLUMN

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE STEERING YOKE WAS NOT WELDED TO THE STEERING SHAFT. IF THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED IN THIS CONDITION, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE YOKE MAY COME OFF FROM THE SHAFT, AND COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL.



Vehicle Rating & Owner Reviews

Overall Rating
4.8
  Based on 283 reviews

Best car I've ever driven.

5
Jeff on 09/02/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: Value Rating: 5

I purchased my car out of an impulse buy, simply because it is the greatest car I have ever driven. My 2005 toyota avalon limited, which by the way has 190000 miles, drives like it is brand new. No shakes like what everybody says, no acceleration problems by any means, I enjoy racing it and a newer Hellcat put up a pretty good chance with my avalon. The air conditioned seats are great during the summertime, and the air is insane! The gas mileage, especially the way I drive is great, I'm averaging 20.4 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, with it being 11 years old, and almost 200k miles! Definitely sticking with Toyota after this amazing vehicle!

Great car

5
William McKenna on 03/24/2016

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

Luxury car at a very good price.

Great bells and whistles but with dangerous flaw

3
Edwin S. on 10/13/2015

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: Reliability Rating: Safety Rating: Technology Rating: Value Rating:

I love everything about this car except for one feature which in my opinion makes it the most dangerous car I've ever driven. When decelerating to make a left turn across a road way the transmission will often shift into neutral and just when you think its safe to accelerate slightly to cross over to your left turn the car wont move, the engine will race in neutral and then suddenly shift into low gear and the car takes off like a rocket almost colliding with the oncoming car that ordinarily you had plenty of time to avoid. Bringing this to the attention of the regional service manager was useless, he just said buy next years model and this will have been fixed.

...and a few years later

3.5
kydna on 07/13/2012

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Still own my 2005 Avalon 7+ years. Almost 41,000 miles. The car has not needed a lot of attention. Now that it does; it calls for the seal to be replaced on the front of the engine block. Oil leak! Of course the engine will have to be removed. 1700.00 repair! Good gas mileage. Seats are fair at best on comfort when heat/cool optioned. Laser cruise is ok for the first 25,000 miles then it is............. particular?? Ok, car but at best a cheap Lexus knockoff!

NOT WHAT I IMAGINED

3.5
bennettsbebe on 09/29/2011

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

Maybe my expectations were too high, but I am not as impressed as I thought I would be. The rear view mirror cant be adjusted as it hits the ceiling because of placement, the paint is peeling. The front has mysterious issues no one can diagnose including jerking randomly, speaking of jerking the tranny does it too when it wants. The headrests are not adjustable, and the seats are not as comfortable as I hoped. I do like the quite cabin, the amazing sound system, the safety features, and the gas mileage, I have gotten as much as 31.5 on the highway. Still I think that Toyota started cutting corners on many of their vehicles staring in 05. Next car: GERMAN even if they are maintenance needy.

Not the Toyota I Expected

3.9
mikeecee on 05/20/2011

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

Our Avalon was purchased w/ about 90,000 miles...we took it for a short test drive it was great! HOWEVA', when driving on longer trips, both passenger and driver seats become uncomfortable, to the point of numb legs. After about a year of ownership, during an oil change, the technician informed me there was 'a lot of oil on the engine'. We took it to the dealer, and a crankshaft gasket had failed (they said it is a freak thing). Most expensive repair ever. Otherwise, it has been fairly reliable

2005 Avalon Limited

4.6
Momof2 on 10/30/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had this car 26 months now and have had no mechanical problems. Replaced the tires and brakes and regular maintenance. Very fun to drive for such a large car, I'm still in my 30's and want something that carries my family comfortably and still has some power under the hood, and my Avalon has it all. Paint seems to be thin though, and has small rust spots in places, even though I wax 2x a year. Only big problem is that when I went to upgrade into a newer model, I lost all of my value due to Toyotas recent problems, and am now stuck upside down. The only good thing to that is at least my car is last me a good long time. I'll be bored of it long before it wears out, I believe.

Above average returns on investment

4.1
Larry on 10/19/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought the vehicle brand new. No major repair bills until now. Ignition coils all need to be replaced - this is a pricey job. Do your routine maintenance and car should be fine, but suggest that you get an extended warranty if you plan to keep it past 5 yrs and 80,000 miles

Why isn't this car talked about more?

4.3
q45samuel on 08/13/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Hello, I traded a paid-off 01 7 series BMW for my 05 Avalon limited. I really lost on the deal, but something seemed so right after I test drove this used Avalon. 2 years later, I've installed an iPod connect and changed the oil twice. Though I no longer Wonder what needs repaired when I drive off, I now smile. This ava limited is my friend. The air conditioner is nice, seats are comfortable, audio and ride do what they're supposed to do, so I ask 'why isn't this car mentioned more for its qualities? 'a true sleeper' I thought, for I live in a upper middle-class neighborhood, and the Avalon seems to be everywhere. Toyotas are around, but the Avalon is everywhere. This may be my last car

This car is a sleeper

4.5
samuel on 08/08/2010

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

in my 30 yrs of driving, I've had more than 20 different cars. a 87 lincoln mk7, 93 sc400, 2002 q45, had been my favorites until buying my 05 avalon limited. nearing 2 yrs with 65,000, all done has been installing ipod plug and oil changes. i've taking 2 yrs of auto courses, so i know about problems with autos. my 05 avalon is a true sleeper. every time i get into it, I'm amazed at how it seems to want to be noticed.besides 23 city and 30 plus hwy, it never breaks down. though, like a number of others, i had to be reminded how to use the key fob. thing is why hasn't more be told about this car? my 05 limited is nearly the same car as the 2010 limited,so why hasn't the critics mentioned this?

Questionable

4
kydna on 07/20/2010

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Car has had no major problems. Time is showing quality issues. Paint chips very easy. Interior headliner needs replaced. Radio door cover opens 40% of the time. Control panel door for nav. falling off! With just over 30,000 miles not the quality I would expect from Toyota! I will return to MB!

Excellent

5
Raj on 11/23/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've been driving my Avalon XLS for past 4 yrs. Already put 95,00 miles on it. It drives more than a Lexus,280 HP - decent power and great fuel efficiency (I've got once close 32 mpg).

Ultimate reliability

5
Kevin McLean on 11/12/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Coming up on 137,000 miles on my Avalon touring edition 2005, the car had zero problems. Of course I have changed the front brakes out once, and tires rotated/changed once. This car has been a sigh of relief in having the confidence this car will not break down. I realize that no car will not run into problems with regular maintenance performed. But, so far this is the most reliable car I have ever purchased. In one year alone I put up 55,000 miles on my Avalon with only a battery change. If you're in outside sales, having to keep every appointment, this is the car for you. Luxury & reliability, this Avalon will be the last car I will ever have to purchase.

80,000 miles and still lovin it

5
Kim on 07/15/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the 6th Toyota I have purchased new and love it just as much as the day we brought it home. There have been no major mechanical issues. We recently had a new computer update put in for the jerky transmission. That problem is gone now. Take note if you still have warranty get your dealership to install the update. Love the gas mileage average 27 mpg & have had it up to 35 on expressway road trips. The motor has had a tick in it since day one (sounds a bit like an old Mercedes diesel, not as loud) but it doesn't seem to be having any issues. New brakes & rotors @ 60,000,and it seems like the muffler may be getting ready to be replaced. Have done all maintenance as scheduled. LOVE IT LOVE IT!

Greatest car from Toyota.

4.9
Steven on 05/11/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After buying in 2001 a series 5 BMW by 2005 I had had it with this German maker and its pieces of junk cars that let me stranded 4 times and had me dry on repairs. (My brother warned me but I wanted the Beemer... what an idiot I was for not listening). I need something luxurious and reliable and it was not hard to decided among an Avalon an Infinity, and a Lexus LS when I checked the options, size, cost of ownership, features and the styling. Almost 4 years later and never a problem (except for the rear sunshade) this Avalon has been the best car I have owned so far. It is a well designed big car. In the back has a flat floor, seats that recline and plenty of room for teenagers and adults.

Best Car I've Ever Owned

4.9
Jim on 04/01/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought the car as a Certified Pre- Owned in 11/07 with 16,000 miles on it. I have 49,000 miles now and I absolutely love it! I have not had ANY problems with the car. All it asks for is gas and oil. I had a 2001 Avalon prior to this one and this one is far superior in every way... style, comfort, power, features, reliability. Toyota definitely took the Avalon to the next level! I receive compliments on the car all the time. It is the best luxury car value on the market. I am averaging 23-24 mpg, and routinely get 28-30 mpg on the highway.

Lots for the money

4.8
glendola on 01/31/2009

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my Avalon new in 12/05. It did have 1,100 miles, however I consider that new. It was in the showroom, and in black on black it was a totally impressive and sharp car. I was impressed with the laundry list of standard equipment. From the reclining rear seats, to the most exceptional stereo I have heard, even in cars that cost $15k more. I won't get into the other standard features because that would take forever, let's just say you want for nothing in this car in the way of luxury. I have had absolutely no complaints mechanically. Even the tires with 48,000 miles still have at least 15,0000 miles left on them. The performance is astonishing. Would definitely repurchase.

Intermittent Starting Problem

3.6
Will on 12/20/2008

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

Purchased vehicle new and after approx. 2 years noticed problem in starting engine(no pattern to problem). Dealer claims foot is not being held firmly on brake pedal when starting. Why did it take 2 years for this to become a problem. Dealer has kept vehicle on 2 occasions for several days and says it never failed to start. They said they have never seen this problem before & don't know where to look for the problem. Toyota said basically the same thing. When it fails, and without changing pressure on brake pedal, it usually starts after 4-5 attempts. Strange Toyota "engineers" can't provide a fix for this problem. This is my last Toyota. Small oil leak at 1000 miles.

Disappointed

4.1
john Wittig on 11/17/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Have had car towed to dealer twice for no start. My first and last Toyota. Never had new car towed before. Car has some good features, great fuel economy, great performance. Love cooled seats. Hid headlights are great. Stereo is great. I no longer feel reliability is there. Transmission is terrible very jerky. Will make last payment soon and car will be gone. Wife wanted Toyota for quality but is disappointed

Love It!

5
Phil on 11/13/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I went from a Ford Explorer to the 2005 Avalon Touring Edition. I love it! I'm 6'6" and even I would be comfortable in the back seat! I love how the Touring Edition hugs the road. By rotating my tires every 5,000 miles, I was able to get 60,000 miles off the original set. 2 years and 1 month of ownership the battery died. I am disappointed somewhat in the quality of the interior. The finish is wearing off on inside the drivers door handle and a few other small issues but overall the car is great and gets great gas mileage.

Lexus quality for Toyota price

4.8
Paul on 10/11/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has great power and outstanding gas mileage. 30 mpg on the highway! The stereo plastic cover is dumb and not needed. A/C and heated seats are the best! We owned a Volvo S80 T6 which was a mechanical nightmare so we are so excited to have this reliable car. I miss the volvo seats but that's it! This Avalon is a great value and beautiful to drive but I wish it had a more sporty feel... my wife loves it though and didn't want the Nissan Maxima that I tried to get us. This car is better than I thought even thought the older people seem to drive it after retirement. We are in our 30s so we are making it a cool car!

LessThan Perfect

4.6
Phillip on 08/14/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 65,000 miles, I have become to like the car more now than when first purchased. Bad interior rattle near top of back glass. It took tree trips to dealer to get fixed. Has lots of other little rattles in cold weather. Transmission hesitation and jerkiness at low speeds is a definite design flaw to me; however, Toyota will not admit to this of course. The hvac system is very hard to control, especially in cold weather. Once automatic system acclimates, warm air comes from floor vents and unwanted cold air comes from dash vents. Toyota will not admit to this design flaw either. The laser cruise control in concept is great; however, it doesn't work as should, waste of money.

Great Value

5
JB on 07/31/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is a true bargain. I have owned other sedans but for the money this may be the smartest choice. This car is a true pleasure if you like a luxurious ride with great reliability. The car is smart looking without going overboard, the interior is excellent. For buyers looking for a sport feel this car is not the right choice.

Best Ever!

5
Susan F on 05/03/2008

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my second Toyota Avalon. I love this 2005 Ltd. When I owned my other the XLS was the top of the line but, was an excellent car prompting me to buy another one after reaching 145,000 with no major problems. This is a truly exceptional handling car with power, luxury and is also fun to drive. When I am driving my Avalon, I am truly at the helm of my flag ship. Do your self a favor, go test drive a truly luxury, full-sized Avalon and you will be hooked. Happy driving!

Not up to Toyota hype of Quality

4.4
My First Toyota on 01/09/2008

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

In for service many, many times for rattles and squeaks. Noise was in both front and back of vehicle. Original set of tires lasted 19,000 miles and was told by the dealer this is common for that car. They are expensive to replace as are the wiper blades. Rear brakes showing more wear than front (odd for a front wheel drive car) and will have to be replaced in approx. 5-10 thousand miles. Mileage on the road is down about 3 miles per gallon since new. All in all I guess I am disappointed in my Toyota ownership experience. It is not that it is a bad vehicle, but it simply does not live up to the quality Toyota advertises.

Great car

5
james on 12/10/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just purchased the 05 limited model, excellent power, nice interior features, real nice ride. The paint buffs out real nice, lots of depth and great shine even on the light color. Real solid feel to the ride.

Best Ever

5
Allan Whaite on 11/27/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my third Avalon and is the best car I have ever owned. Very comfortable and good gas mileage. This is a keeper and in my 74 years have owned a lot of cars

It's been almost perfect

5
JB on 09/15/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Unbelievable power and gas mileage for this size car. We always get well over 30 mpg on the highway. Quiet and smooth and has tons of leg room. Continues to look beautiful after 2+ years. No problems so far.

2005 Avalon is reliability plus

4.5
rogermot on 08/12/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned this car for over two years and have 38,000 miles plus on it. Other than the front window shade holder falling out and being replaced, there have been no other maintenance problems. This is the first car that I have ever owned that has been maintenance free. Reliability has been outstanding!

Better than your average bear

3.5
Better than your ave on 08/12/2007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

Very pleasant highway car. A little large for personal preference. Navigation system could be easier to use.

Pass on this car

3.9
Unhappy Camper on 07/06/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

Not what I expected from Toyota! Frequent visits to the dealer for a variety of repairs including replacement of the intermediate steering column, repair of a faulty air bag system (which by the way involves disassembly of basically the entire interior), oil leak, and replacement of driver side leather seat for premature cracking wear. If that's not enough, it's back in the shop once again because the faulty air bag light has come back on. I can not believe this is a Toyota. Had previously owned a Previa van that was extremely reliable. Would not recommend this car to anyone.

Great Ride

5
Dan Barrett on 06/18/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Exceptional vehicle, it is a solid 12 on a 10 point scale. No disappointments, just a pleasant ride, excellent performance and good fuel economy.

Toyota Quality?

4
John on 06/04/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

Very soft paint. Chips and pit marks started to appear almost from the first day. After the first winter there were easily 100 "holes" in the paint all over the car. Toyota would not stand behind the defect. They stated it was from road salt and stones, etc. I agree that is what causes the marks but I looked at many others cars with similar driving conditions and none were even close to the condition of mine. The next big problem was with the brakes. A front caliper locked up at about 44K miles. The repair - two front calipers, rotors, pads, labor was almost $900. It would have been much much more at the dealer with OEM parts. So this is Toyota quality?

Disappointed for the money

3.5
Roger on 03/21/2007

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I am selling the car after 25 months of ownership. What a disappointment. Worst highway car I have ever owned. Can't keep it between the lines and forget about driving it on the highway when it is breezy. Transmission is the worst at slow speed. Motor is very noisy. AC climate control in the winter is very poor. Steering problems, oil leaks, radio problems. This car is not what the so-called experts claim it to be. Buy some other vehicle. Don't listen to the experts.

Best car I have ever owned

4.9
L Gigante on 03/14/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great power, economy and comfort. Lots of nice features and well thought out. Sharp looking but not gaudy.

Re-toyota

5
kydna42406 on 03/05/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Owned previous model 2004 xls. Upon the redesign traded for 2005. No real quality issues for the new model with the exception of the radio door sticking. Needs minor adjustment. Brakes are a bit sluggish with heavy humidity on first stop. Other wise no issues on the first 16000 miles. Comfort, features, gas mileage, all wonderful. Heat and air seats, two thumbs up!

Love it but not reliable so far

4
MichaelG on 02/11/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

We have 20K miles on our 2005. We love the car but it has been in the shop several times. It does have a transmission hesitation but is only an issue in rush hour. Currently, it is in the shop for another month awaiting a new steering assembly.

Still Running Great

5
Rayalon on 02/02/2007

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 25,000 miles this car still looks great and is running flawless. Makes long driving trips a breeze with all the comforts one would expect from this fine automobile.

Next to Lexus.

5
Ralph Joch on 12/09/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

An absolute pleasure to drive, city or highway.

05 Avalon

4.4
swerge on 11/22/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The remote start system is poor at best. It will operate locks across a parking lot but you to be close to start the car. The operation of key fob is tricky then engine stops upon entry and needs to be restarted.

This is a Gem of a car

4.6
Roberta on 10/31/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The outside does not halfway hint the wonder inside the 4 doors of this luxury vehicle even though it is pretty. Everyone, including the passengers in the reclining rear seats get special treatment. The moon roof, comfort and ease of driving make each trip a great time. Lots of spirit for a 6 cylinder so I have had to monitor the speed frequently on this great driving machine. With low miles for a used car, I plan on having this for at least 10 years. Cars used to last that long, however most of mine, in the past, have not stood the test of that duration. I might not like it much if it does not hold up to my expectations for that long. The price was enough so it should last .

Nice car, Major oil leak...

4.6
Freezer on 10/12/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Purchased in 11/05 as a pre-owned "certified" vehicle. We have the blizzard pearl with black interior. Purchased with 8,000 miles on it. The vehicle handles nice with plenty of horsepower. Noticed an oil leak the first day we brought it home. Brought it back to the dealer and they performed a TSB repair, oil lines etc. To make a long story short we went back to this dealer at least 3 times to fix and to another dealer about 4 additional times to finally get this resolved. We had to involve the Toyota Corp rep to get satisfied results. The engine had to be pulled to find the leak which was a void in the seam sealer near the cam saddle. Lets just say that I never expected this from a Toyota.

Great Car

4.8
Luxury on 09/12/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned many luxury cars, this by far is the best car I have ever owned.

Interior Access Panels

5
David Kosik on 08/26/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The overall interior layout is very good, however the access doors (panels) in the front seat are to close to each other. This in turn causes a problem when stored items are needed from the storage areas. This was my first purchase of a Toyota vehicle and the driving performance exceeded my expectations. On a recent vacation trip I was extremely pleased with the comfort and gas mileage and would rate the 2005 Avalon in the top five sedans of comparable size and cost.

Avalon Experience

5
Bob Daugherty on 08/15/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is more than can be expected for the price. The Avalon is more Lexus than Toyota. It delivers what Toyota (Lexus) promises in every department.

Lovely Avy Touring 05

4.9
Touring05 on 08/02/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been driving this car for a year now and I like this car a lot. I am in love with this car, let me put it this way. I know that there are always some problems with any new car but it's a small matter. For instance the shield between a spoiler and the trunk is somehow sticking out. The other thing is the frog light is loosening. Other than that it's a great car. As you know it's a big car and comfortable which I feel like I am in the living room especially when I am in the back seat with recliner. Also I think It's saved me gas with this big car and comfy. How can you beat that? Most importantly I like the power this car. it's unbelievable but at the same time it rides like a lexus.

Great Ride - one minor fix

5
DLK on 07/31/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Never had a car ride so nice on a long trip.

Great Car

4.9
kloogee on 07/04/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So far this has been a great car. It is very spacious inside, has great power, and rides very smoothly. After a recent long distance trip, we all felt very fresh after a long day traveling. City MPG seems like it could be a bit better but is probably a result of my heavy foot. Highway mileage while in cruise control is good. With 5 passengers (4 large adults and a small child) plus a trunk stuffed completely full, we were averaging nearly 30 MPG while cruising steadily.

2005 Avalon-Transmission Problems

4.1
camadden on 06/26/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought a new 2005 Avalon last year (my first experience buying a Toyota) because I had heard such wonderful things about it and the Camry. Boy, am I disappointed ! The transmission is horrible. It "bucks" when accelerating from a stop or slow driving. I was told that it needs to "learn" how to behave from the driver. During one service appointment, they "untaught" it to see what would happen. No change. My kids get car sick, it's so bad. The dealer told me to keep checking with them for a "fix". If there is no "fix" soon, I plan to get rid of it while it's still under warranty so it will have a good selling point.

Evelyn's Avalon

4.9
Evelyn Smith on 06/14/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the most comfort for a fuel efficient car that I have ever driven. I tested many different makes before purchasing and I kept going back to this model. The handling is excellent on the road. I feel very safe traveling in my Avalon.

In love with our AVALON

5
Mid-Tennessee on 06/09/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We own three cars one of which is a 2005 Avalon. Never have I had a luxury car that drove or rode smoothly as this car. It rides like the large Lexus for half the price. Our Avalon is very easy on the gas too. I am in love with my Avalon and will definitely purchase another when ready to trade.

Love my Avalon

4.9
Kim on 06/08/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Avalon has a beautiful luxurious interior with an unparalleled smooth comfortable ride. Great horsepower at 280.

maxs '05 avalon

4.6
maxavalon on 06/06/2006

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a big, comfy ride with lots of goodies (270 hp, 360 watt, 12 speaker sound system, dynamic laser cruise control, heated & VENTILATED front seats etc.) that you would otherwise have had to pay much more for. My only issues with it so far is a bit of torque steer on quick acceleration (it DOES GO!) and a pronounced nose dive when I had to stand on the brakes recently.

Fun to Drive

5
J. A. Dean on 05/28/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle is fun to drive. Toyota knows how to make a sedan sporty, solid and economical. Fit and finish are top quality. Everything worked the first time and everytime since then. The ride is smooth and the automobile is very quiet. I love the leg room in the back seat and the reclining back seat is just an added plus. Cruising back from Las Vegas last year I got 32.3 MPG when I had it on cruise control. What a great automobile to own and drive!

Great Family Sedan

4.3
jaegan on 05/26/2006

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

When picking a sedan to replace my 350Z, I selected the Avalon over the G35, Altima and Camry. One might think G35 would have been a closer match to the Z but no sedan can match sports car handling - so I got the car that offered the most of everything else. The Avalon has a good bit of power, cavernous rear passenger space, reclining rear seats, excellent build quality, and a luxo-plush ride. I've noticed that it takes some throttle modulation to "help" the car find 1st or 2nd gear. Cloths seats are far softer than leather. You can get over 30 mpg on the highway (at 65-70 mph). Conversely, 19 mpg in the city is common. Overall, a surprisingly great value in XL trim (paid $25K).

Best Choice I could have made!!!

5
Linda Taylor on 05/25/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have a bad back and right leg and the Avalon is so easy to drive. I can drive for longer periods of time and the comfort is great for long legged passengers both in front and in the back seat. The size of the truck is fabulous too!

My Avalon

4.8
Redregal on 05/24/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the finest car that I have ever owned in 60 years of driving. My only complaint has been the odometer and cruise control position readouts. They cannot be seen during daylight hours when wearing sun glasses. At night the dash is beautiful and easily read but they dimmed the odometer and cruise control lighting and you cannot read the information. Other than that this is an A1 car. Great performance and luxury. It's my "Lexus" at a bargain price. The active cruise control is the greatest accessory ever.

A Lexus in sheep's clothing

4.8
Peter Foss on 05/23/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is an extraordinary vehicle. I have the tan interior with maple trim, which adds a sense of spaciousness in an already comodious sedan. The rear passenger area with its flat floor, reclining seats, and ample room, offers more square footage than most college dorms! The car is blindingly fast and will out accelerate a huge segment of the market. Here is the Japanese equivalent of a Buick with a surprisingly strong personality. The dash is as beautiful as it comes. Everything works perfectly.

Avalon Experience

4.1
L.PASCIUTTI on 05/13/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Excellent road car. Have some issues with quality and ergonomics. Transmission seems to shift excessively in traffic. EPA estimates were off significantly under old stds; now are more in line with my experience.

Rattles front and back

4.8
T. Wagner on 05/02/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Since having my vehicle, my first Toyota, it has been into the dealership over 10 times. A few of my visits have been ones where the car was kept overnight. Why? Dash rattles, trim rattles, windshield rattles that just keep coming back. The dealer has replaced many parts but yet has found a "cure" that lasts over two weeks. That is up front!!! Body rattles in the back were finally eliminated by epoxy caulk after many visits. Both the windshield and back windows have been replaced to try to quiet the rattles. The dealership has been diligent and professional. I have had many vehicles over the years, new and old, but never one with such rattles that persist.

A great buy

4.8
Roger on 04/19/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After researching Chrysler 300, Lexus, Cadillac and Mercedes I kept coming back to the 2005 Avalon and I have not been disappointed. On long drives I get 32-34 mpg (regular fuel). 24-27 round town. A/C and heated seats are real nice. Guests have vry favorable comments on the all the room and comfort in the back seat. The one negative is a "dirty socks" smell that sometimes comes out of the air conditioner (mold?). Have taken to dealer and they sprayed it but to no avail.

Disappointed

4
Slats on 03/29/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I HATE to say this, but as a long-time Cadillac owner, I finally switched to Toyota on the advice of friends who are loyal Toyota owners. The ride is great, the gas mileage is spectacular, and the interior and trunk space are huge. BUT - the interior finish is cheap. The yellow foam on the front seats shows through. I've had the steering column replaced (recall item), the driver seatbelt stopped retracting, the power steering pump went out (10,000 miles) and it's got a ferocious pull to the right that the dealer says will probably be a future recall. Not the quality/reliability I was looking for. I'm considering switching to Lexus. Not what I expected at all.

Great Car

5
wnavalon on 03/24/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have put on 12,000 miles since last April and have had absolutely no problems at all. It gets between 31.5 and 33.0 miles per gallon on the freeway and averages 20.5 in town. Everything fits and there are no rattles. I will buy another one when the time comes

Best Car I Ever Owned

5
JimG on 03/21/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Avalon has been a dream come true. The car has been flawless and I have gotten over 34 mpg on the highway. I have no problems with interior noise as others have complained. I have had the vehicle for over a year and the only time it has been in the shop is for oil change. The push button start is great. I get annoyed when I have to take the keys out to start my other vehicle. My wife and I took it on a 800 mile trip to VA and the ride was very comfortable. I give the Avalon the highest rating.

Glad I waited

5
Mike on 02/22/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car. Glad I skipped the 2nd generation and waited. I sold my 1998 Avalon to my nephew and he loves it. The new model is great. Especially like how quiet it is and the 3.5 liter engine has more than enough power.

Nice

5
rburnham on 02/14/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Extremely comfortable ride. Interior is well appointed and makes sense. Fit is adjustable to anyone. Engine is far superior to the rest of the field. Gas mileage is 23 to 28 depending upon how hard you accelerate. One of the best cars I have ever owned.

One Magnificent Automobile

5
raylon on 02/13/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car rides like a dream and performs magnificantly in all respects of a true large luxory automobile. Quiet comfortable ride with great amenities.

Toyota Avalon Limited 2005

4.9
Sharron Zeisman on 01/31/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my second lease of an Avalon. It is a dream to drive as I have arthritus, and It is so comfortable. It drives as though it it the top of the Lexus Brand. Most of the high-end extras that the Lexus has comes standard on the Limited. It has items that I never would have thought I needed. It's keyless entry is great as are all of its other extras. This truly drives like a car that starts at $50,000. I have driven "luxury cars" for years. There is not much difference.

2005 Toyota XLS

5
susanne sullivan on 01/18/2006

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the first Toyota I have owned. I am extremely pleased with the car-the ride is smooth, the engine is quiet yet powerful and without problems. My family is tall, ranging from 5'10" to 6' 6" and everyone has commented on the generous leg room in the back seat without having to sacrifice leg space in the front.

My Avalon

4.9
Girvinia on 12/28/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have driven Lincoln for 15 years so this was a change for us. Fun and easy to drive. I am 5'; husband is 6'3 and accommodates either of us, lots of room in front and in back seat. Great music sounds system, including the controls on the steering wheel. Love the soft dove gray interior as compared to many cars with black interior. Easy, effortless power, just quietly and quickly surges ahead, lots of power! I think we made a great choice and I look forward to many luxury miles ahead.

Retired to Florida in comfort

4.9
Jack on 12/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my second Avalon and was not sure at first that I liked the larger interior space. Now we consider the space wonderful, with luxurious features and more power under the hood in the 3.5 engine than I should be trusted with. My big complant is my wife won't drive her sports car, complaining it is not comfortable.

Best Car

5
bhcar on 12/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Almost flawless, plenty of comfort and power. Quiet. Reliable.

Great Family Car

4.3
Avalong on 12/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I had to run from the hurricane with my invalid mother, pregnant daughter and 17 yr old son. We were all comfortable during the 1200 mile trip to and from. The car was quiet, comfortable and on interstate the gas mileage was great. there are some "blind" spots when you are travelling faster than normal on the interstate that you need to watch out for.

Avalon

4.9
goskins0 on 11/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Plenty of room for head, legs and gut. Seats are comfortable and roomy. Car is extremely quiet and drives well.

Excellent Vehicle

5
RALPH JOCH on 11/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Performance and ride are superb. The quiet ride is next to the Lexus. The handling is top notch. Totota did a marvelous job on this model of Avalon.

Smooth and Quick

5
Joseph DiDio on 11/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Not until I stepped on the passing gear, did I realize how fast I zip past the car in front of me. A true pleasure to drive; with all the options, including a built in navigational system. Heated seats are now a plus. Seventeen inch wheels are also a plus. Very quiet ride. The only drawback I have found is the trunk space. However, my former car was a 95 Oldsmobile Regency, and that trunk was hard to match.

@ lesser price, a must for luxury cars

5
jackattack on 11/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's a dream car. Rides like a charm, very quiet, good gas mileage and very reliable. The interior space is so roomy and comfortable, with more head room. With a V6 280hp, 3.5 liter engine, it accelerates very smoothly and with authority. The exterior design is so sleek (it was like love at first sight) and it's part of the reasons why I bought it. It's a head turner wherever I go. I'm very glad I bought this car. For those of you who are into luxury cars, this is the car for you at a much lesser price.

Great Car

5
Bill Bryant on 11/03/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 2005 Avalon is a super car. It runs very quiet and is very economical to run. My only negative comment would be that the odometer is sometimes hard to see during daylight. I am very happy with my recent choice.

Almost a luxury, but....

4.3
Brad C on 10/27/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Good balance between Performance, size and fuel Economy. Great power, large interior particularly the rear seating. Smooth quite ride, but feels a little floaty driving. We had some issues with the inside trim with fasteners on the window switch housing popping up. It makes me question the interior durability and craftsmanship; however, I believe the engine and transmission and drive components will prove reliable. The leather seems a bit lower grade than my old Acura Legend, but all the newer cars seem to use thinner leather. A nice chunk of paint came off when a large rock hit the front. The large doors/higher rear ends make the car harder to see out of while backing and merging.

A Work in Progress

4.1
twinbridges on 10/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

My 2005 Avalon XLS has a lot of nice features including, lots of interior space, reclining rear seats, good visibility, as well as good power. It has wide easy entry doors. However, there is ample room for improvement. For example, the transmission and engine hesitate at low speed. The "stainless steel" exhaust leave rust spots on the garage floor. There is only one keyed entry on the car. The rear window has significant optical distortion. The windshield also has some also. The side mirrors are not breakaway like GM's so figure on buying at least one in the next 5 years at $340. The suspension system could be stiffened. You have difficulty reading the odometer in daylight.

A delight to drive

4.9
Dave Nars on 10/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been impressd with the ride, handling comfort of this car. I have been only running premium no lead however I am getting a combined 26 mpg. If you are a do it yourselfer the oil can be a bit of a pain to change unless you have your own lift.

A superb luxury car

5
volts amous on 10/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A smooth beautiful car that gets head turning looks and has plenty of room and nice appointments.

Love this vehicle!

5
j. barnes on 10/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

we really like our 2005 Avalon! It is a very confortable ride, neat interior, quiet, and good mpg.

Touring Avalon

5
Steve B on 10/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven. I can actually move the driver seat so far back it makes it difficult for my to reach the pedals and the sterring wheel. And, at 6'3" and 52 years old, that has not ever been the case in any car I've driven before. Buy the Touring version, with it's ultra-smooth road feel, and enjoy taking it out on the road. Also, I have been experiencing right around 33 MPG on the highway. That's just what we needed in today's economy!

update

5
galaida on 10/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is an excellent performer and the fuel mileage is beyond my expectations. Getting 32 mpg with 2 rest stops per fill up, around town 22 to 24 mpg which is better then my 2002 Avalon with the 3 Liter engine. This is driving cross-country at speed limit plus 5.

It Just Gets Better!

4.9
Jerry on 10/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 4000 miles I can't believe that I am still surprised at how little my Avalon cost. This is my first Toyota.

Wayne's Avalon

5
waynekastner@adelphi on 10/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is the best car that I have had. It rides nice and the performance is excellent with the 280 horsepower engine. To top it off I have been averaging 27.5 miles a gallon. All my passengers were extremly impressed with the smooth ride and spacious and comforable interior accommodations.

One Great Automobile

5
rayalon on 10/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Rides like a dream, quiet, comfort with a safe, sound ensuring drive of quality.

avalon

5
jpaulson on 09/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The avalon is comfortable, and love the amenities, cool seats, rear window shade, and the complete car!

Car of a Lifetime

4.9
Howard on 09/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Power and more! Lots of snap when needed in traffic. Very little road noise and no rattles. Spacious interior with passengers in mind. Best car I have owned in my fifty years of driving.

Expected More

4.3
Dale on 09/22/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Had a very hard time finding the XL as we needed the cloth seats. We drove the car the next week on a 300mile trip. The mileage was about 28mph over all. The seats and the ride were just average. We were told the xm radio was pre-wired and it was not. We are not sure if we are excited about this car, time will tell! Had 2001 Avalon that was troule-free for 100,000 mph!

The Black Jet

4.9
Ed Crivello on 09/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is truely an outstanding vehicle for the price. Extreme response when you put the hammer down. Good turning radius, and adequate braking system. It took some time getting used to the touque steering during power accelerations from a halt. JBL Sysnthesis 12 speaker stereo will rock your world and with out distortion. Interior is very ergnomic with comfortable front seats. Love the leg room in the back...and the rear reclining seats. Excellent gas mileage on the road...racked up 33 mile per gallon on a trip to Georgia while burning 93 octane and cruising at 70 MPH. 14 MPH city... washington D.C. Would love to see this car with Hybrid IMA assist package.

STS for 1/3 the $$$$$$$

4.5
mrmose on 09/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Engine is fantastic, exterior is sleek, interior is good, but seats are not up to the rest of the car. Handling is wonderful, but ride could be a bit more smooth and comfortable. Gas mileage is very respectable with regular gas.

Avalon Surpasses Our Expectations

4.9
Mike Geradi on 09/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

An excellent overall vehicle, went looking for a 4x4 & fell in love with this car!!! It meets or surpasses everything that we look for in our cars, it has the quality of a Lexus at a much easier price. With 280 hp this car can move!! We could not be more pleased with our choice & will now look at a 4Runner as our 4x4 pick.

A Great Buy

4.3
Alangc on 09/09/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The vehicle is a poor man's Lexus and is a pleasure to drive. It is well worth the money and I love the heated & vented seats.

Hard seats and ride leave me stiff

4.1
Herb on 09/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Toyota has turned Avalon into another sport sedan. Gone is the cushy suspension and soft leather seats of the last version. Now you feel and hear every bump on the road. The drivers seat is very hard and uncomfortable. I'm squirming after 15 minutes. There are many wonderful improvements in the new Avalon. But the navigation system is poor. It is archaic with the joystick and its linked to vehicle information. You must change the screen for each type of info. The information is in very small print. For my tastes, I wish the comfort level matched the quality in the rest of the car. Suspension is a matter of taste, but Toyota doesn't provide that option. It is hard or harder.

Assembly Problems

4.4
Ellen on 09/06/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I absolutely love this car however I have experienced several problems to include the window control panel came out of the door the first time I rolled the window down. The speaker vibrated/cracked when I turned the stereo on. Took it to the dealer and after repair I now have an unbearable wind noise in the cabin that is proving hard for them to find/fix. Ergonomically I think the interior is a masterpiece. I am hoping the dealer can fix my problems so I can enjoy this car even more.

Almost a TEN

5
ROAR on 08/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Always felt the Avalon to be a vehicle for sedate, retired folks, and it was. This new 2005 model is not your grandfather's Avalon. It is slick, sleek and hauls. Take a test drive and be a convert. The fit and finish is typical of the Toyota brand, no squeaks, no rattles. Terrific design excercise, both in and out. Roomy, comfortable and sassy. Shop around, some dealers are going nuts with their pricing. I ended up buying the base XL, in black with the optional rear spoiler from the Touring model, and my final deal was nearly $7,000.00 less than the first dealer quoted. Drove more than 125 miles round trip to get the car at the right price. At 31 mpg, highway, it was worth it.

A Great Sedan

4.8
t. wagner on 08/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Avalon looks and drives very well. It has many "creature features" and I feel good driving it. I was looking for a fresh style in the largest, most dependable sedan I could find. I also wanted performance. The new Avalon fit my criteria and price point. Cost of ownership and value also impacted my decision. Acceleration is strong and smooth, with a bit of torque steer on harder acceleration. The control panel covers give the dash a futuristic appearance, and I feel the controls are easy to use I have experienced some rattles the first two months of owership that have caused the vehicle to be out of service for a few days. Other than that this vehicle has been problem free.

Lexus Wannabe

2.6
EK on 08/26/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

This car is a Lexus wannabe. I made the mistake of trading a 1997 LS400 with 77,000 miles for this pretender. I thought, hey maybe this car will deliver Lexus like quality at more reasonable prices. What a joke. The vehicle came with a door ding which the dealer agreed to fix. Current mileage 425. Problems: Paint bubbles, passenger air curtain column coming loose, GPS panel cover sticking out 1/4 inch, leather steering was abraded, 17 miles per gallon, road noise is my constant companion, surges forward when downshifting and other issues. Worst of all the Toyota factory rep refused to fix anything but the paint bubble. After all, why satisfy the customer?

Awesome Av

5
Vinman on 08/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

had the limited avalon for a month and it is an incredible car. smooth, sleek and fun to drive with more options than you can remember. Priced right when compared to other vehicles of this quality. everywhere I go people ask about it and look at ...i've been driving it for a month and a half and have only seen 2 or 3 other on the road. took a month or so to get the car from the dealer but worth the wait. Mine is silver with grey interior with every option except the NAV. auto wipers, air conditioned seats, reclining rear seats, auto start and push button start, rides like a dream. couldn't ask for a better car...

What a car!

5
Michele Daye on 08/25/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When I saw this car, I immediately fell in love with it. It's like driving a Lexus with added extras for $15,000 less. The smooth ride, sleek look, soft preforated leather, laser cruise control, heated and air conditioned sits, automatic rear screen, voice activated navigation system that also controls the radio & CD, calender, push button start up, night sensored rear view mirror with built in garage opener, 12 position seats, 300 watts speakers, 280 horse power engine and the gas mileage of 22/31 mpg amongst dozens of other things below me away.

Great car, but ...

5
KARL A. ELLISON on 08/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car, just a few things need to be worked on. CD player door sticks, passenger front seat belt metal hits side beam knocking sound when you hit a bump.

First Foreign Car

5
STLMO on 08/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have only driven GM & Ford for last 30 years but saw the new Avalon & had to give it a look. Considered 05 STS, & 300 Ltd but wanted a large back seat and couldn't get past Chryslers reliability rep. Only 500 mi on Avalon but love all the features (have all but remote start). Very comfortable and is beautiful inside & out. No quality issues and gets 25mpg in 50/50 of freeway & stop n go on my daily commute. Ride is great. My sister's ES330 comes off lease 3/06 & she says she is going to get an Avolon just like mine.

A Great Car

4.5
Sandy Funk on 08/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The car has been operating flawlessly. A real winner... everything I have come to expect from Toyota.

Best Car in US for the Price

4.9
dennis on 08/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The 2005 Avalon XLS is awesome. It performs best at higher speeds, where it purrs like a cat and seems most at ease. The torque is amazing and can put you out in front of cocky kids in sports cars. You can challenge a Chrysler 300 on long stretches and leave almost all but the big BEAMERS disappearing in your rearview mirror. The only downside is getting used to the computerized shifting program which can seem bizarre and confused. Also the the brake pedal is mushy to the extent you feel you are losing fluid and the pedal is going to the floor... but in reality the pedal is reacting to various pressure intensities -- and it takes getting used to in order to feel confident.

Love My Avalon

4.9
Reggie Young on 08/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been a Toyota lover for years because they last forever. But I have not loved a car like this since my Celica I bought in 1982.This car has everything and is a joy to drive, comfort level is excellent, design is absolutely great, quiet ride, I can not say enough to express how much I love this car.

Limited edition

4.8
mjh on 08/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My third Avalon - love it! Better than all the rest. Great trunk space and the back seat can seat the anyone with long legs.

great car!

5
court811 on 08/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my fourth toyota and my second Avalon (last one was a '98). This car rules! It's gorgeous, rides so smooth and has tons of room. It also has lots of interior storage for stuff like cell phones, etc. Love love love this car!!!

I Love This Car!

5
Jeanette Gatson on 08/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle had everything I wanted and more. I love the way it drives on the highway. I like the way it accelerates. I like the smart start feature. It has so many features that are standard that you can't remember them all when you are showing friend and family. This car is a looker!!!! The back reclining seats are a big hit with everyone. I like everything about this car.

'05 Touring (avalon)

4.9
timfrank on 08/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When I first saw this car I asked my wife how much did she think it cost? She replied,"forty or forty five thousand". I walked up,looked at the sticker and got "reverse sticker shock". It was about 28,900.00. Hmmmm. I drove it - it was fast with little torque steer for FWD. The back seat was limo size and the drivers seat had many possible positions as well as an inflatable lumbar support. The stereo is adequate but I will be replacing all the speakers and adding an amp (all Alpine). The brakes are adequate but I may be replacing with Brembo later. The Touring suspension is better than the other Avalons but I still would like some bigger sway bars. A great bargain sedan!

avalon touring review

5
suzanne collins on 08/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

the touring is easy to drive, comfortable and eye appealing. The gas mileage is very good. This car is fun to drive.

Best Sedan on the Road

4.8
Mecedes Guy on 08/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have driven Mercedes S class cars for 20 years. When I test drove the new Avalon Limited I immediately said "I gotta have this car!". It is the largest, smoothest, most technologically advanced car I have ever driven. No, it won't impress those who want certain labels on the front of a car, but it will certainly impress the anyone sitting inside of it. And one more thing, I took the 40 grand that I saved and bought another car with it!

A very impressive vehicle

5
Gary U on 08/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just purchased my 2005 Avalon Limited mirage blue with ivory interior with DVD Nav, Laser cruise control pretty much loaded with most of the options and I am thrilled with the vehicle. I had currently owned a landrover discovery and mercedes and was considering getting a new mercede, Audi, Infinity, or Lexus. After looking and driving all of theses vehicles I kept comming back to the Avalon not only for the beauty of the car but also the price compared to these other vehicles I had considered. I think Toyota is the leader in quality and styling. Take the new Avalon for a ride and I think you will be impressed.

Toyota does it again

5
cvg on 08/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had to wait 60 days for the Limited Blue Mirage color. I think things are starting to loosen up after the initial backlog. Coming from a BMW 7 series intro in 2002, I was concerned that the new Avalon would have many glitches in a new model release. That has not happened at all and after 2 months of driving the car has been perfect. Fit and finish have been outstanding. The factory installed XM satellite radio has been wonderful with the trunk mounted antenna, an unfortunate afterthought and not well integrated into the design. It's a little cumbersome to get outside air temp. Should be visible at all times. Stereo great and car really quiet to drive. I think it has more features than Lexus.

Very Poor NVH!!!

4.4
Marty on 08/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Touring is very Boomy (pressure on ears). Every slight road input results in Boom! Hurts my ears. Road Noise at highway speeds is atrocious. Tire slap is continuous and very annoying. For a $30k+ vehicle, I am very disappointed. Please test drive the car extensively before buying. I should have too, except I put too much faith in Toyota. Very cheap sideview mirrors (not even fold-away!). Big gaps between trunk lid and doors, and the body: very un-Toyota like.

New Avalon

5
jeff McCollum on 08/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It is about time that Toyota kept a luxury car instead of giving it to Lexus. This is the finest car in its class. Plenty of horse power(280) gives this car ample pickup and top line speed. This car is extremely solid, and very quiet on the road. Inside is very roomy and large. I am over 6 feet tall and there is plenty of leg room and head room.This car is as nice as the Audi A6, and the Infiniti M35, but is $10,000 cheaper.

Problem with my Avalon?

4.1
Pat G. on 08/05/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

We bought our 2005 Toyota Avalon XL in May and were very satisfied with it but now I am beginning to have second thoughts. It has less than 3000 miles on it now. I made a 200 mile round trip in July and it made 31 mpg. Great!! I really bragged it up. But two weeks ago I made the same trip but on a breezy day and temps in the 90-100 degree range. This time it made 25 mpg as well as downshifted on slight inclines. Yesterday I had to make the same trip under nearly the same hot/breezy conditions and it made 25 again and had the same problems with downshifting on the slightest of inclines. The dealer tells us that Toyota is having problems with Avalons fuel mileage in hot weather. ??????

Great car!

5
Debbie on 08/01/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I had previously owned 2 Toyotas but most recently had a 1990 BMW 525i. I enjoyed my BMW for 12 years. However, I'm very impressed with the Avalon. I did plenty of research and probably knew as much about the car as the salesman. It's everything I had read about...comfortable, roomy, plush...It drives well on the open road. I'd never had automatic doors, a cup holder, leather, CD changer. So I'm in heaven. Great value for the price.

poor workmanship (interior)

3.8
S. Hendley on 07/31/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 4

Poor workmanship with interior features... air control louvers (in dash) keep coming off track and won't allow for directional flow... wood inserts on arm rest coming unglued... control unit for climate, radio, etc. sticks and won't fully expand out for use. Also, the navigational system is below standard - voice guidance is limited - have been very displeased with it's abilities when compared to other systems. This is my third toyota and have always been very pleased until now. Overall, the avalon limited has been an expensive disappointment.

Most comfortable car I have owned

5
Marla on 07/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Driving this car is like sitting in your living room recliner with surround sound on. Seats are VERY comfortable, sound system is magnificent. Has all the safety features standard. Gets 4-5 mpg better gas mileage than my Nissan Maxima did. Comfortably seats 5, huge trunk space, and most importantly phenomenal pick up. One downside, bumper is a blindspot while backing up. I suggest a back up alarm be installed.

Winshield Wiper Controls

5
David Kosik on 07/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Positioning of windshield wiper switch mechanism is too low down on the steering column. At times I inadvertantly hit it with my knuckle while shifting the gear knob causing the wipers to activate.

another great avalon

5
bernard levine on 07/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

over 10 years this is my 3rd and best avalon yet... amazing comfort in front with all the push buttons needed and easily handled... flat floor in rear with reclining seats and fantastic passenger confort... been getting compliments over the past 2 months of ownership.... just fearful of having it valet parked, because many can't handle the keyless operation with the push button ignition-but it's been getting more and more popular... moving up to 20 mpg in the slow city and expect 29-30 on the highways

Ponchitta's Avalon

5
Ponchitta Bondojia on 07/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Avalon XL is an outstanding automobile. Its velvety smooth ride and quick response is a sheer pleasure to experience.

Avalon love

4.9
kathe on 07/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 3rd Avalon & they just keep getting better & better--BUT, going with the nav system in the 05, lost my ability to have a trip "time" function which I miss--also not sure I like the automatic oor "unlock" when the ignition is off -- I felt a little safer when I had the ability to unlock manually when I stopped and turned off the ignition

2005 Avalon

5
CymJym on 07/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 2005 Avalon is a much better car than the 1996 Avalon it replaced. Really love the new engine with 280 hp but I need to ease up on my right foot to get better mileage. It has been interesting to see the realtime miles- per-gallon and how driving in stop-and- go traffic reduces the average mpg.

I love it!

5
Artie on 07/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall..it handles well...comfortable. Sturdy.

Awesome Car - Buy it!

5
Bill from NJ on 07/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

WOW. Great car! Ride is wonderful. Navigation system outstanding. Everything solid and tight. Good fuel economy. Very happy with selection of this car.

High Class Car - Not quite high class $$

4.9
Karl Meier on 07/28/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has loads of room front and back. Large trunk and leg room in rear seats to give away. A neat new look outside that should stay in style for some years to come. The dash controls are easy to read day or night (back lit for nite). It's full of new tech features like the push button start/stop with your keys never leaving yor pocket. The automatic windshield wipers come on when the drops start to fall and speed up or down depending on the amount of rain without touching one knob. The voice command for various controls like radio and navigation are first class. This car has it all.

A new approach to luxury sedan

5
Ugo Bozzano on 07/28/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I owned an Avalon for almost 8 years and I truly liked it. However, the new model is a tremendous improvement in exterior and interior design; it has great confort features (T control on both sides, control buttons on drive wheel, reclineable rear seats) and sound system (9 speakers), safety features, and a terrific 3.5 lt engine.

Want a 300? Get an Avalon instead.

4.6
ledchp16 on 07/27/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Avalon is new and better than ever, with almost Lexus-like Styling, Lexus-like luxury, and Lexus- like Power, no wonder it is great

Best Car Yet

4.8
GB on 07/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Outstanding car. Was also looking at Cadillac but came across Avalon by chance. Took 1 test drive and never looked back. Great power, very roomy (including back seats) and spectacular dash design. Push-button start and door locks are best idea since the Model T. I will never go back to a "key" car again. Absolutely the best luxury car value on the market.

This is what I dreamed about!!!

5
Earl Smith, Jr.` on 07/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I test drove one of these (Limited & Fully-loaded). It's hot. Way better than the plain models before it. It's got speed, it's smooth, and you could practically live in this spacious, and wonderful car. This one came with an awesome sound system and dual dvd head- rest. I passed a maxima (that tried to race me) in flying colors. Toyota really did it this time. I would buy this before the 2005 Lexus GS I feel in love with, plus the 2006 GS is messed up for as exterior styling.

Better Trade Than I Thought

4.9
Stephen on 07/25/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded down to an Avalon Limited from a BMW 330I. As it turns out it wasn't that far down. I'm actually seeing more and more that this car has a lot going for it. Better gas mileage, no premium gas, it's pretty quick and a good sound system.

Avalon is affordable luxury and power

4.4
Jerry Boothe on 07/24/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've driven my Avalon Limited for about a month now and truly enjoy the features and power it brings. I like a car that not everybody buys and you don't see that many on the streets. I did have a '94 Toyota 2 dr Camry and it was a head turner, people still thought it was a new Camry. I tested the Lexus and Honda's and the Avalon to me was the better buy for the money, the luxury AND the power.

Worthwhile Avalon notes

5
Richard Gaines on 07/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 05 Avalon is a fantastic automobile. It is powerful, comfortable and a joy to drive. We just came back from a 1500 mile trip, loaded down with a trunk full and two full sized adults in front. Speeds were in the range of 75 to 80 and our mpg was 27 on average. I could easily make the rated 31 with a lighter weight and speed below 70. The only problem was the door to the CD player/am/fm stuck closed the entire 8 days. It worked fine for a day after we returned then failed to open again.One thing to be careful of is the very low curb clearance below the front bumper. There should be a replaceable rub strip along the bottom. I left a lot of "Blizzard Pearl" paint on an Applebee's high curb.

missing seat belt

4.4
Lee Goodman on 07/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Like the car, BUT I find the transmission indecisive and "quirky". The manual shift option on the automatic trans is better on the Chrysler. I know. I owned one. Further, the trans up-shifts at inappropriate times; as when coasting or when applying the brakes lightly. Just the opposite of what it should do. Left rear passenger seat belt missing (the part with the red button). Sound volume on DVD players (in head-rests) cannot be adjusted.

Quite Impressed

5
mrjohn on 07/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Was originally looking at Acura TLs and Infiniti G35s, but the extra space and better fuel economy of the Avalon won me over. I am just amazed that Toyota can take a 280 hp engine and still get 31 mpg on 87 octane, whereas Acura can't do that on the TL with premium fuel. Not to mention the Avalon is bigger, and hence, heavier. No complaints so far.

XLS Nice Ride

4.5
donb on 07/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have about 500 miles on my new XLS. I have found it to be a very nice car. the ride is smooth and the fit and finish are excellent. I am still discovering new things on the car. This is my 3rd Avalon and I like this much better than my previous 2. Lots of power and gadgets. I am not impressed with the display on the XM radio. In addition the Nav cannot be adjusted or changed when the car is in motion. Overall it is a great, well made car. It should serve me well on the trips across PA to see the Grandkids

Great Car

5
Larry on 07/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my Avalon Limited for two weeks and so far it’s the best car I’ve ever had. Comfort, amenities and enough power to handle freeway driving. I like the overall look especially the cabin. It came with DVD NAV, VSC and Laser Link Cruise Control. I was pleasantly surprised at the way it handled on moutain roads. I guess the VSC paid off. I am still learning the NAV system and the Laser Link Cruise takes some getting used to, especially if someone cuts you off. A satellite radio was installed. The dealer used a third party to install it. The antenna is on the vehicle centerline half an inch above the rear window. Looks a lot better than it would have on the trunk lid.

Great car gets even better.

5
Ray on 07/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Smooth, powerful and lots of nicities. This is my second Avalon after three Mercedes and this car in better in every respect than the Mercedes; especially quality.

Why buy a Lexus ?

5
Mimi Klier on 07/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recently had a 2000 Avalon that I traded in for a 2005. I was told by the dealership to wait because they were comming out with an all new body style. Even though the 2005 was late by new car standards, it was worth the wait. I am very happy with the changes they made. The amentities on the Avalon for the price tag our outstanding and the design is much sleeker than in past models. I would recommend this car to anyone!

Our first luxury car

5
Bernie on 07/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This was a stepup for us. We were very impressed with the reviews and the styling, but skeptical about the gas mileage. Wow! The gas mileage has been better than expected. We have yet to get below 24 mpg. And with my wife driving, we got 31 mpg on a longer trip. Comfort and space are excellent, as is the power and acceleration. We are really enjoying the navigation system, it has really come in handy, especially when you are in an unfamiliar city. We are ready for the first oil change (3750 miles) and we will have to see if all things remain the same after a year of ownership.

How Sweet it is!!!

5
Richard M on 07/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What a vehicle this is! It was my second choice until I test drove it and then I had to have one. So fun to drive, especially with radar cruise control on the interstates. Very quiet,powerful, and fast. Had to shop around for a good price, but it was worth it.

Great Car

4.6
Austin Profeta on 07/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

First Toyota, exceeds my expectations. Impressed with fit and finish. Almost bought the Chrysler 300 LTD but this car rides and looks better. Toyota is going to have a hard time holding price on Lexus ES330 once the word gets around on this baby. I only wish I was willing to wait for a LTD model, but the XLS doesn't disappoint

The Best Gets Better

5
gene on 07/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I followed the new Avalon's development from 2003. Toyota kept it a secret amidst all kinds of speculation. I loved my 1998, which has 150,000 miles on it. This one surpasses it by magnitudes of order. I used regular gas in my '98 and I'm doing the same in my new Limited -- the difference in responsiveness is minimal so far. Toyota has 'done good.' And I certainly hope that the rumored similarly designed 2007 larger Camry doesn't cramp this Avalon's style!!

It cannot get better

5
ken on 07/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 4th avalon. You have to wonder why Toyota offers Lexus when they just built an avalon that feature for feature, quality ,drivablity etc surpasses the lexus 430 in most areas. The es330 does not compare in any way to the new avalon limited. The gs300 has less power in its new v6 and not the options a avalon limited offers. WOW!! you have to wonder. Toyota sure surpassed itself with this new avalon limited. My wifes face tells it all...*smiles* *smiles*...Thank you Toyota. Made buying this one soooooo much easier

great car for the money

4.8
vince on 07/14/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very happy with the car except that is hesitates after coming out of a rolling stop. The dealer said it was a common problem with this trans. Ride is quiet and comfortable. I had to put after market leather in the car because the XL doesn't come with it. I have been using regular gas and the gas mileage seems to be ok.

Nice Car,Terrible Seats

3.8
Stan on 07/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Styling wise, this vehicle is a great improvement over the previous model. The seats, however, are extremely hard,low quality leather.They tried to create a more expensive look by pleating the leather on the seat backs but all they did was create lumps that stick in your back as well as seams that protrude rather then are concave.My drivers seat has so many lumps that the dealer ordered a new leather cover for it. The ability to adjust the front seat is limited. If you wish to tilt the back up and lower the front the only adjustment brings the the entire seat up vertically so that your head hits the roof.My sons Ford Taurus has better and more comfortable seats.Shame on you Toyota

Texas Limited

5
gbinplano on 07/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

With 1105 miles on the odometer, my Avalon provided 27.2 mpg on a 300 mile trip with 4 large adults at 72 mph average speed in 98 degree temperature under laser guided cruise control. It was the most comfortable road trip I've experienced in 45 years of driving. It is roomier, and better featured, than the far more expensive six "luxury" labeled sedans I seriously considered before buying the Avalon.

Big Ed from Plymouth

4.9
BigEd on 07/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A pleasure to drive. Handles very well with plenty of power. Get the GPS navigation system. It's a must!

A splendid new car

5
BD on 07/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife and I are very pleased with this new Avalon. The ride is comfortable and very quiet. On a recent 1800 mile trip, we averaged 31.8 MPG on regular fuel. [We are averaging 24.7 in city driving]. The sound system complements the quietness of the ride and we had the cruise set at 73-76 MPH. Acceleration is quick and smooth and the braking system is very effective. We traded in a Chrysler 300M [which we liked very much] and found the Avalon a great improvement over the ride and road noise of the 300M. The Avalon is an excellent road car.

A Very Good Car for the $$$

5
dan4182 on 07/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A very fine car for the $$$, matches up well with others (Lexus, Lincoln and Cadillac) that cost thousands more.

Great

4.9
Tony on 07/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am a high mileage driver and need a strong, reliable, comfortable drive! I had a SE-V6 Camry 3 years and placed 185,000 miles on it - Fantastic. The Avalon will surpass my expectations, it's wonderful. Pity the "touring" was not even more sporty, more aggressive front end and interior. Just put new alloys on, now were talikg "cool". All in all delighted. Thanks Toyota again.

Only Toyota

4.9
Guitarmom on 07/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We have purchased many Toyota vehicles but this is the best! We love Toyota due to the quality of the vehicle. They hold their value better than any other vehicle of this price. The ride is super quiet and smooth. It holds to the road great. The ride and drive is super!

WOW

4.9
Bill on 07/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have always bought Ford products and have been very satisfied. However, the Avalon sets a new standard that I have not seen in previous cars. Power is great. Ride is smooth. Feel is fabulous. I love the car.

MCD4822 Reveiw

4.6
Alison Burlingame on 07/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Much roomier than the Camry. Especially noticable in back seat area. Gives you more for the money when comparing it to the Lexus 330 which we also own and paid the same price for. Smart key system is great, and many other electronic features.

Great car

4.5
Jeff on 07/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Wanted a 4Runner / Tundra ...but couldn't bear the horrible gas mileage. Decided on a Camry XLE V6 - but Avalon outperformed the Camry and gets better gas mileage.

no teething problems - a followup

5
captain on 07/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Generally a big no-no to buy a truly new car - better to wait awhile and let the mfgr. work out the bugs? After 4 months and 10000 miles I would tell you that this does not apply if that car happens to be a Toyota. No problems at all of any sort - just an insanely quick (it will outrun almost everything else on the road), comfortable/quiet car (think Lexus), and all at some equally ludricrous mpg. Averaging 27 mpg at a 70/30 highway/city mix. This is a BIG car! Funny thing is, that although I live in a big city, just don't see any Avalons on the road and very few on the dealer lots. No matter, if you are looking at larger 4 door sedans, the Avalon is a must drive and a superior value.

no teething problems

5
captain on 07/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is one car that is about everything that a car should be. Quiet, solid, reliable, comfortable, fun to drive, and amazingly economical. Have had the car now for nearly 4 months and almost 10000 miles - no problems at all and certainly no reason for a dealer visit. Still feels and sounds like a (overpowered) Lexus, will outrun about 90% of everything out on the road while handling/braking is extremely competent for such a large car. I do run premium gas and also do a good deal (70% of my total miles) of 70-80 mph highway driving. 27 mpg overall! Given how much fun I have depressing the accelerator, this is much much better than I expected. Check this one out, highly recommended

Mighty close to perfection

4.8
Peter Foss on 07/06/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

An extraordinary automobile wrapped in a not-so-extraordinary hull. The front looks like every other Japanese car built over the past 10 years. But get in, sit, down, buckle up, turn the key, and oh my!, all is forgiven. Everything is perfection from its effortless silent operation to its stunning interior. I love the simplistic stylng of the dash. Various components are hidden behind panels that open with jewel-like precision.

I'm Thrilled

5
Joe Solomon on 07/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the best sedan I've ever dirven... Total comfort and very quiet. Performs like a big cat when asked... Fast for anything especially a six.

Drive It before you buy another car...

4.4
KLM on 06/30/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Perfect engine combination of power and economy. Touring is firm but what I wanted in a luxury car. My second avalon, I tried a 2000 model and liked it so much I had to get the updated, more refined, better design 2005 model. So far no problems other than radio door cover sticks in down position, and toyota punishes you if you take off your seat belt with an irritating ascending bell. Please..big brother, a simple light warning is plenty! PS. All those who can't figure out how to turn of the radio from the steering wheel..just hold down the power button for 3 seconds!

Avalon 2005

5
jfwynne on 06/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 2005 Avalon is the steal of the year. The XL is equipped with all the features you would expect on a vehicle costing thousands more. They have a great product which will set the level in competition against the best Europe has to offer. Toyota has done their homework on this vehicle. Plenty of room for six footers.

2005 Avaoln Limited

5
Bart on 06/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Our previous Avalons were 1997 XLS and 2000 XLS. Each newer model has been a little better handling and quieter, our 2005 Limited has much better performance and handling than previous, and the highway mileage is over 33 mpg. 2005 Limited has super features, auto dimming mirrors with turn indicators, ventilated front seats (nice in 100 degree AZ summers), great stereo, nav system, laser cruise, tilt/telescoping steering column, heat/air system performs great, auto leveling headlights, and is a very comfortable road and town car. It looks great too.

Great Luxury at Affordable Pricing

4.9
Curt on 06/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 2005 Totyota Avalon is a great car at a great price. Fully loaded XLS only cost me $32k. It has navigation, vehichle skid control and very nice leather. The car is elegantly styled inside with a nice mixture of faux wood, metal and leather. The sound system is great, not very loud but the clarity and sound is wonderful. On the XLS model I would prefer more plush filled seats like in my SUV but the ones in there are good. The car has tons of room, in fact I don't mind riding in the rear seat because of the comfort and room. The power is excellent, you no longer fill intimidated to pass another vehicle because of the 280hp. Luxury that is affordable. Great Car!!

Avalon xls 2005

4.9
Kathie on 06/20/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had a Sequioa went smaller, but still have all the luxury. Fast,Fun, comfortable. Lot's of Trunk space. Can fit 2 sets of golf clubs plus golf carts. My kids like the room in the back and how the back sits tilt back if needed. Very smooth ride... feels like a lexus in every way.....

The most underrated car on the market

5
Tom Thomas on 06/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle performs as well as $100,000 vehicles I have driven. The comfortable ride and handling are amazing. GPS, comfortable seats, leg room in back seat, power from the fuel enjected v-6, and new type transmission give a powerful smooth ride with excellent gas economy. This car is way underrated and underpriced for comparable performance and looks.

A lot of " bang" for not too many Bucks.

4.9
Karl Meier on 06/18/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Sleek looking car inside & out. Styling should not become "dated" for many years. Road noise is much lower than you'd expect for a car costing a lot less than $65K. Rider comfort is lacking almost nothing with the ventilated seats and rear seat back adjustment. And the leg room in the rear is almost equal to a full sized Deville. The ride is a bit on the "soft" side and could be "tightned" a bit. The old American idea of driving your living room down the highway as the epitome of luxury has hopfully passed. Two customers of mine have just bought Avalons and they are as pleased with their choice as I am. Toyota has a luxury car here with a "not quite" a luxury price

Poor Man's Lexus

4.9
George Hanover on 06/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This isn't the Avalon we know from prior years. It is really an outstanding car. I can't imagine why anyone would spend the same to buy an ES Lexus as my Avalon Limited cost, nor why anyone would spend $12,000 to $14,000 more for a GS. It is superior to the ES in every way, and except for a couple things (Blue Tooth Tech for one), it is every bit the car the GS is and it has more interior space. All this and finally good looks too.

2005 Avalon Limited

5
D W Nelson on 06/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is more than I expected, my first Avalon was 1995 and this is my 5th and by far the best of them all. I have not owned a Lexus but this car is much larger and more power than the ES 300. I am still finding new and wonderful features and I would say they must have talked to the consumer in planning this one. I am more than satisfied with my new Avalon Limited.

Luxury Car without the Luxury Price

5
Power2g on 06/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car with plenty of luxury and power. The fit and finish is great, the drive is luxurious with power to pass even the sports car. I can't believe this is a Toyota even more so I can't believe it is an Avalon. As you drive the Avalon you will feel like you are in a Lexus more than a toyota. There was a lot of thought put into this machine prior to going to production. With the economy the way it is saving a few thousand dollars on a vehicle is great.

Pure Luxury

5
M. Hudoba on 06/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Had a 2000 Avalon and it was perfect. Waited for new style to come out and so glad I did. The interior is soooo plush and luxurious. Very similar to the Lexus but much cheaper. Have all the buttons including navigation system. Best feature is starting the car without the keys by using push button. Same for trunk. They really seemed to have put alot of thought into this car. Also impressed with Toyota following up with surveys on our satisfaction with the vehicle. This is how they can improve something--not that they need to. I have a 22 year old son that you would think this car would not appeal to him--but he talks about it all the time to his friends. A+ for Toyota Avalon.

'05 Avalon

5
kawacym on 06/05/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Toyota finally built a car I can love. Have only had the car for a week and am extremely happy with it. Lots of get up and go without sacrificing creature comforts. Styling is somewhat bland but that is fine with me as it could mean that it won't catch the attention of the highway gestapo quite so easily. This car is a quantum leap better than the '96 Avalon it replaced.

Almost Lexus Like......

5
Ren... on 06/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Lots of room, plenty of power, clean dash and great materials inside and out..

new owner

5
rod on 05/31/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a very comfortable car, plenty of power and excellent quality and engineering.

Terrible quality

2.5
Stu Johnson on 05/31/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Very disaapointed. MANY problems -- and just notified that it is being recalled for steering issue. Had ignition glitch in first week. Transmission is very slow to respond -- dangerous at times. Interior looks great but my children already lost coins and a small sticker in the gap behind the rear seat. Mileage is okay for big car -- I've gotten about 21 on average, but no where near EPA rating. My former big car (Buick) got much better mileage. Engine nice when you hold the throttle down for a second or two, but initial acceleration is weak -- tranny at fault. I paid more than 37 grand for this car. VERY disappointed at the build quality and the engineering.

Great Car

5
GatorJeff on 05/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fast, roomy, great gas mileage, excellent look. This car has been great to drive and gets loads of compliments. I compared to the ES330 and the G35 and really felt the Avalon was the best in class. No other car has the mix of great looks, fuel ecomony and interior size like this car. I love driving it as it performance like a sports car but rides like a luxury car.

Two Avalon Family

5
Dochurt on 05/28/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We own a 2000 Avalon, also. It is the best car we have ever owned, including Mazda, BMW and Mercedes. When time came to buy another second car, there was no question that it would be another Avalon. That Toyota redesigned and refined the 2005 Avalon, just made the decision easier. My only complaint with the 2005 model is that Toyota did not use the multi-sun visor system with extension it used in the original Avalon. The original sun visor with extension is superior to what I have in my 2005. Other than that, the 2005 is the perfect car for the highway and town. I especially like being able to control the sound system and driver's side climate control from the steering wheel.

Best Avalon Yet

5
Gary Boswell on 05/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is our third Avalon and by far the best to date. Styling and interior comfort far exceeded other vehicles in the same class.

New 2005 Avalon XLS

4.9
doc on 05/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After looking at the Infiniti G-35 and the Acura TL as well as the Avalon, I went with the Avalon. These three vehicles are all around the same price range. The Avalon as equipped in the XLS package is just more car for the money. It is considerably larger than the other two vehicles. It is considerably more roomy for four passengers. The new styling isn't as boxy as the previous models. I had leased an Avalon in 1999 and thought it was one of the best cars I'd driven. It is also a very reliable and comfortable vehicle.

Avalon: Great All Round Car

5
Dave Hewett on 05/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After a few days of driving the car, the keyless start wouldn't work. Turns out the fuse box had been installed incorrectly (it was 1/16th of an inch off). Anyway, the problem was diagnosed and fixed promptly with great service from dealership. To really appreciate the car, run with higher octane gas.

great car

4.9
michael lowenstein on 05/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car to drive it holds the road and is very quiet. Plenty of power when needed for passing. What a machine this is.

Best car I have ever owned

5
Jack on 05/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Avalon limited is without question one of the best cars I have owned. I have owned a Volvo S80 and 740 turbo. I have owned a Mercedes E and S class. Yes I enjoyed my S class Mercedes but for the money, you can't beat the Avalon. I love the style outside and in. I have had more compliments on this car than any other. And, I love to drive it.

Best Car I have ever owned!

5
HawyNbenz on 05/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I typically get bored of a car after about six months to a year so I've gone through a bunch of cars but I am loving this Avalon. It is a technological wonder and far exceeds even my demanding expectations. My other driver is a BMW and I sold my Lexus LS430 to get the Avalon and have not been disappointed. It is simply amazing, especially in Limted trim. Smart key and ventilated seats are wonderful. Stereo is a 9 out of 10, not as good as the one in my Bimmer. Extremely quiet and the ride is as good, if not better, than my LS430. I love the luxury features and the fact that it comes in a low-key Toyota package. My Lexus was a bit over the top (though a thoroughly excellent vehicle).

XLS is true road warrior

5
Hans Aubuchon on 05/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is in it's element on the road. It rides especially well, is very comfortable, delivers incredible gas mileage for the space and is well built. The Avalon has been seriously upgraded over the 2004 models which were already nice cars. For the money, it delivers performance, luxory, and comfort that rivals Lexus, Infiniti, and Mercedes.

Toyota Avalon XLS

5
TomR on 05/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 54 years of marriage, and ownership of at least 13 cars, this is the first one that my wife truly loves!

Excellent!

5
w. Gross on 05/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned Avalons since 1995. For the money, it's the best car made. The difference between the Avalon and the Lexus 430 is $30,000, but the quality's the same. I've never figured out why Toyota doesn't push it more.

Love it!

5
Bob C on 05/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After three weeks, this has been my best new car experience. I am very pleased with the car. It compares favorably to an Audi A6 I drove recently, and is roughly two thirds the price.

Wonder car.

4.8
John Nofzinger on 05/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have experienced as high as 32.4 MPG on the highway with my 2005 XLS Avalon and also have LOADS of power at the same time. Smooth, quiet, comfortable this car has it all. The JBL stereo system is great.

Great Car, Simply the best for the Money

4.6
ledchp16 on 05/18/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The car is wonderful. It's interior space is simply the best-in-class with excellent matterials and ergonomic design. The ride can be a little floaty, but is never harsh and uncomfortable, which is exactly what you should be looking for in a lux sedan. I have come to calling this car a poor man's Maybach. I say this because of the extraordinarily generous rear legroom, you might rather be a rear passenger than the driver!

Simply the finest

5
Bill on 05/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the finest drive I have experienced. I am convinced the 2005 Avalon is the equivalent of the Lexus, in terms of ride and road quiet. The Limited is a step up from the other models of the Avaoln as well. I have consistently gotten 26-27 mpg in mixed city and highway driving on regular gas. The seats are comfortable on both in and out driving or long distance trips and vented/heated is a great addition. The quality of the sound system is excellent. The car also has a powerful acceleration if you need it. Surprisingly agile in cornering too. I'm sold on this car and on the guys at Toyota.

First Toyota

4.8
RJ on 05/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Seem great, first non USA vehicle in 40 years. Quality in workmanship best seen outside of Cadillac. Great gas mileage, great design, getting to like the keyless part of vehicle. One small rattle at highway speed when on rough highway, not worried about that being corrected. Getting used to more solid ride than the big three rides I have been use to, this is sport/solid ride.

AWESOME AVALON XLS

5
canefire on 05/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We saved $15,000 by purchasing our Blizzard White XLS, fully loaded, instead of a Lexus GS300 we really liked? Awesome ride, comfort, space, safety, power, dual exhaust, body style, leather and this list goes on! Beats the GS300 in most categories - great value for $29,000. 2nd Avalon XLS, 4th Toyota - sold on Toyota's reliability and quality.

I still love it!

5
Rosalie Ruiz on 05/14/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This vehicle rides smoothly and quietly. Standing outside while it's running and you can barely hear it running. I still love it!

Better than the Lexus

5
ascrrc on 05/14/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I went to buy a Lexus GS300, but the Lexus had less power, less head room and cost $15,000 more. My Avalon has been perfect. I especially like the ventilated seats. Also, the keyless ignition and locks make it very easy to get in the trunk when I have packages. You would think all the gadgets would be confusing, but they have a web site www.mytoyota.com that teaches you how to use them. Cons? The Navigation system is GREAT technology, but the manual was NOT originally written in English. I dare the President of Toyota USA to try to read it. Also, the main button on the Navigation is too easy to hit crooked, selecting the wrong thing. Should be redesigned. Small complaints. Great car.

Big Bang For The Buck

4.8
David on 05/13/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Our goal was to find luxury under $40k. We compared and drove the Cadillac CTS and STS, they are overpriced and have smaller interiors surrounding the driver and passenger. The Buicks are also getting smaller and just looked like plastic cheapos inside. Lincoln LS is also small inside and overpriced. Lexus is great, we drove the RX and ES. The RX is roomy has all the bells and toys but had some road noise from the rear tires. The ES was the best for a quiet ride with all options, not real big inside but we could settle. The Avalon was out last test and it met all our criteria, roomy, pretty quiet, lots of toys and a deal at $35,287 (our negotiated price) Lexus was 1k more.

never owned a toyota avalon before

5
john dunigan on 05/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What first inpressed me was the new styling of the Avalon. I love the room the back seat has. You can stretch out your legs and feel comfortable, especially with the adjustable rear seat feature. The Avalon has all the bells and whistles you will need. The smart key system is a fantastic idea. I was impressed to no-end with the performance of the new engine and the gas milage rating was also exciting for such a powerful car. Overall, the styling and performance plus the comfort sold me as soon as I took it out for a test drive.

Incredible! Incredible!

5
fte on 05/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have owned three Town Cars (traded a Cartier). The Avalon is more comfortable than ANY TC I've owned. Fun to drive, good looking, filled with FEATURES (TC -- essentially zero!). Nav system is amazing and functional. It's quiet. The dash is simply beautiful. The laser cruise is sweet. I've had three corvettes but I've never been as excited about a car as this Avalon (The Toyo has 20 less HP than my vettes!). First Japanese car ever and it may not be the last. (Wife just got a Sienna and loves it too!) We're both 59. I feel like I'm driving a BMW.

Great Car With A Few Caveats

4.8
Deanie on 05/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great engine, good tranny, great brakes, very comfy, but handling's too soft (less safe). The better handling Touring model remedies this, but can't be had w/Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), the best safety feature after brakes and seatbelts, so Touring wasn't an option for me. Eats up highways serenely and stress-free while providing great MPG and outstanding passing power. Handsome alloy wheels and attractive but mature styling round out this excellent car. To protect Lexus models with which Avalon compares more than favorably, Toyota handicaps Avalon interior with plastic wood, lame-colored leather of avg quality, & denies the athletic Touring of VSC. Touring w/VSC could hurt GS300 sales.

This car is ridiculous!

5
Mike on 05/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Comfortable, fast, luxurious, flashy but not cop drawing flashy, great mpg for its size and speed. I researched every major make and model on the web and test drove about 10 different vehicles. so many cars looked amazing on the websites but driving them was not pleasing. for instance, the nissan maxima-you can't see out the back window and the interior (which looks unbelievable on the website) was all cheap and flims plastic. the avalon looked better than it did on the website. all my friends say "i thought that was a mercedes-i can't believe it's a toyota!" incredible car-best decision i ever made.

Avalon

5
Joe / Orlando on 05/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I almost passed this car up in my search for a replacement for my 98 Camry with 150K miles on it. I just decided to drive one before I went on to the Mercedes dealership to buy the E- Class that I drove the day before. A close look told me that this was not the boxy, bland Avalon of old. What an amazingly exciting car Toyota has assembled here! Power to spare, and it is silky smooth. Interior design is beautiful and very comfortable. Best seat design for a big person that I have seen. The dual zone a/c is a little confusing at first, but I figured it out with practice. I would like to see a nice looking door guard worked in, but otherwise, this car is outstanding in every way. Big and roomy!

I love it!

5
Albert Bigelow on 05/01/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Detailed like a Lexus but not as pricey. A significant improvement over my 2000 Avalon. Limited version has ventilated seats which are great for long drives. Navigation system has voice-activation, but the operation isn't always that intuitive.

Superb car

5
Michio Takahashi on 04/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Very nice smooth and quiet ride with plenty of "muscle". Large trunk space; dash board very well laid out. The audio components and systems are excellent with both CD and tape player. Anticipating the excellent maintenance and service of the Toyota vehicles and so far, I am experiencing it. The "hi-tech" rear view mirror with garage door opener, gate opener and its auto-dimming feature is a nice feature. The gas cap release and trunk opener conveniently placed in this model. A lot of improvements over the 2000 Toyota Avalon that I had and excellent trade in value that it had when I bought the present Avalon.

2005 Avalon

5
W Nelson on 04/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I went from the Camry to Avalon in 1995 and this is my 5th Avalon. I have waited almost a year for this redesigned model. It is everything I expected and more, easily the best one yet. Exciting power, with such ease and the amenities are more than I expected. Inside and out, I am extremely pleased with this new model.

Love the 2005

4.9
CChappell on 04/28/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 4th Avalon and it is clearly the best. Handling is much smoother and you get more features for the money. The new engine provides quicker acceleration to negotiate in heavy traffic. Best year by far!

a home run

5
Captain on 04/25/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Toyotas have always been big on quality but not so much on performance - not any more! Certainly not a BMW/G35, but very competent for such a large car. Drives much more like a Lexus. Uncommonly quick, smooth, and comfortable. Have been averaging 26 mpg overall and it will do 30+ highway - amazing. Looked at Maxima, TL, ES, G35/M and 300 and the only car that approached it was the M35 at $42K+. I can't imagine a better overall value at $30K. It will be interesting to see what Lexus does with this engine - how about a 'LS350' for $45-50K instead of 60+. Advice: stick with the Avalon, trim lines from high 20's to mid 30's.

Awesome, AWESOME car

4.9
Lisbeth on 04/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Hi, I just bought an Avalon. It is, without doubt, the smoothest, nicest car I have ever owned. I feel like I am riding on a soft cloud,while driving it. I love the feel, the interior design and those delicious heated seats. Toyota has outdone itself. I have always had Camrys -- but, this Avalon tops it all.

Only 1000 miles

4.6
P W K on 04/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Avalon Touring - Rides a little hard. Handles well. Large interior. Lots of room in both front and rear. Rear seated passengers are very comfortable. The V-six engine gives the vehicle power if and when you need it. Fuel: Vehicle only has 1000 miles. Dealer recommended Regular. Getting about 16 MPG in city and about 24 MPG on highway driving. Going to switch to a higher octaine. Toyota factory representative and Owners Manual recommends high test for max fuel performance. Next refueling, switching to high test. Large Capacity Trunk.

Even Better

4.8
Chuck on 04/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my third Avalon. They get better every time. I thought the 2000 was comparable to a Lexus. The 2005 Limited IS the top of line Lexus-for $20,000 less.

Great Car - few caveats

4.8
Deanie on 04/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My fist Avalon and the only highly reliable Japanese branded car with true seating for three across in the rear - which saved me from having to buy an SUV or Minivan (yeah!). There's no better car within $5-7K of the Avalon. Great engine, fuel economy, comfortable ride, great brakes, great JBL stereo, virtually every safety feature in existence. But tranny ever so slightly hesitates between gears at low speeds (5-15mph)when stepping on the gas (not flooring it) to get up to 25-35mph in a hurry, though is smooth as silk at all other speeds/situations. Avalon compares favorably with or is notably better than many premium German sedans costing tens of thousands more - seriously!

Nice XLS

4.5
ejmann on 04/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought the XLS vs a 300C and love the car. Ordered the VSC and heated seats for safety and comfort. Drives great, excellent mileage for a large car. And very quick!

Toyota Fan

5
Hamboner on 04/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After my 2004 TL, This Avalon is a dream to drive. Plenty of power, great gas mileage, and just fun to drive. 1st Toyota fro me, but I may be a fan for life.

AWESOME CAR

5
RONN on 04/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The new 2005 Avalon is a great car. While driving many other name plate cars, this one beat them hands down with comfort and luxury! It is very quiet, and handles great. I get lots of looks with this car, as I find the styling to be great and eye-catching. It has many features to play with, and the stereo is great as well. The navigation is fun, and performs well. The new engine is as smooth as silk, and I'm very pleased with the gas mileage. I am getting 22-23 in town driving. You can't beat that with 280 horses!

The best vehicle I've ever owned!!

5
Melvin on 04/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Greetings everyone. First of all I would say that the new Toyota Avalon meets all of my family's needs. It has limousine-like leg room. The reclining rear seat sold my wife for transporting our kids and their grandparents across country comfortably. The rear seat entertainment center is a life saver! The car is extremely quiet as to be expected. The horsepower ratings and fuel mileage combination was a deciding factor as well. It's surprisingly nimble for a large, powerful people mover. The styling was very much appreciated and long over due by loyal Toyota owners! The price compared to the value is offset in favor of the value. Plenty of bang for my bucks! This is the best car i've owned!

The Tradition Continues

4.5
Steve Mitchell on 04/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 3rd Avalon (1997, 2000, 2005). With each redesign, they've improved significantly (with the exception maybe of the 2000-2004 looks ;) ). Why on earth should I spend $8,000 or $10,000 more on a Lexus ES or an Infiniti M when here I have a smoother ride, a more reliable vehicle (look at Consumer Reports) right here for a much lower price? A sports car it ain't - of course it doesn't pretend to be either. There's enough of the feel of the road for me, and of course, the comforts and the reliability of Toyota.

2005 Improved in all ways

4.8
Doug Robinson on 04/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my 3rd Avalon, and with each new one they have done wonders in their improvements. The new 2005 with 280hp is much quicker and responsive. The interior is just fine. I got the GPS navigation - and while I do not NEED it, I love it. My area in Vancouver BC has high detail mapping and it is accurate to a few feet, quick and actually useful! The fine tuning on handling the shifting ability of the transmission makes it very quick and responsive. Sound system works fine. I've had it about 6 weeks (1st in Canada) and have had not one problem. These cars work very well every day.

Lexus Wana Be

4.6
Lesie for less on 04/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Going from an LS 430 to the Avalon was a no brainer at half the price the ride is similar. The interior is bigger, just as comfortable for the driver with all the same toys as LS 430 with the nav, cooling seats and laser cruise, regular gas and wow wow wow what a gas mileage - 24 overall current on 87 octane cooooooollll. Dont push the trunk button while driving, the trunk will open, bad fault. It's too close to the rear sun blocking auto privacy screen.Overall its a buy-it for sure.

couldn't wait

4.5
Bob Hayes on 04/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

There are some things that were standard on the 2000 model that are no longer on the 2005 model. There is no day and date, the location of the compass on the rear view mirror instead of the dashboard display, the seats don't seem as comfortable, smaller trunk and of course the premium gas requirement. There is no coin holder, the cell phone charger connection doesn't allow the phone to be left in the ready to answer position with the door closed. These may seem petty to some but when you pay as much as they want for this vehicle they are not minor issues to us. With the exception of the above mentioned items I enjoy the vehicle and am not disappointed with the purchase.

GREAT CAR

4.9
DEANNIE on 04/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Satsified a need to have room for my wife + two booster seats in the back, eliminating need for an suv/minivan which are inherently slow, relatively poor handling/braking, gas-guzzling, and less safe than sedan/wagon counterparts. The fun-to-drive rating of 7 would have been a 9 had I bought the Touring model, but Toyota doesn't allow Touring models to have the best safety feature out there - VSC/traction control, so I went with the softer-suspended XLS which has vsc option. The XLS is still a good-handling car, but lacks precision the way a firmer suspension would provide. Stereotypical Toyota qualities are inherent in this car, even if it's in first year of the new-gen Avalon.

Great car!

5
Bill on 04/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was all set to purchase an"05 Lexus ES330, but saw this car at the Detroit Auto Show. It was bigger, faster and got better mileage than the Lexus. I ordered it in Feb. and picked it up when I returned from a trip. So far I like everything about it. It's faster and more comfortable than my BMW 3 series was.

I Am Loving It!!!

5
Debbie on 04/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my new Avalon! I had previously owned a 1996...and they have only improved the style, comfort & price. I love the ride and the way it handles... a lot of car for the price!!! Go tes tdrive one...I bet you will be sold on it just as I was!!! I especially like the sporty all leather look of my Touring model.

Finally

5
Gerald Schultz on 04/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

All but a few drivers are looking for a car which provides superior handling, comfort, performance, safety and luxury options. The best handling cars offer less comfort. Performance is usually associated with higher gas consumption and noisey interiors. Luxury options are not available on most cars or they come with expensive nameplates. Safety options are limited in all but the top models. The Avalon is the first car which I have driven which has almost all of the characteristics most drivers want at a non-luxury car price. It is loaded with luxury options. Beyond the normal power functions it has almost everything that you can get on any other car ..... It is awesome!

Just about nails it

4
Kayaker on 04/13/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

For context, my previous cars were a BMW and Avalon. It came down to the Lexus 330 and this, which offered so much more for the money. Smooth power, comfort, luxury, room to spare in cabin and trunk, and all the toys are the story here. The controls are arranged well and are easy to use. Storage bins are ample and handy. Quality is in evidence everywhere. I looked at about ten large, luxury models in all and this one just stood out.

2005 Avalon simply a great car!

5
David Hendricks on 04/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We drove our Avalon on a 2000 mile trip a week after delivery. It is a great car, everything we wanted in a quiet spacious package. Acceleration is surprising, especially merging back into interstate traffic after a rest stop. Seats are very comfortable...rated best ever by my wife! We got about 30 mpg overall! We felt so rested we drove "straight through" coming home, 850 miles in 14 hours.

Sir William

4.9
Sir William on 04/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I don't know why any one would buy a Lexus and pay the extra money. The car is beautiful to look at and a dream to drive.

Avalon is Great Value

4.6
Alan on 04/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I test drove Buick Lacrosse, Chrysler 300 and Ford 500. There was no comparison for me. The Avalon blew them away with build quality, comfort , reliability and mpg. It has a 280hp 3.5 liter engine and still gets the best gas mileage of this group. Definitely consider this car!

2005 Avalon....wow

4.9
Mark on 04/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Toyota has hit the mark with this sport/luxury vehicle. The 280HP V-6 is very powerful and the tuned front suspension has all but eliminated the torque steer common with high powered front wheel drive cars. The Touring Edition handles like a dream. The interior is beautiful, extremely comfortable and very ergonomic. If you are thinking about a Lexus GS, Infiniti M or any other sport/luxury car, you must drive the 2005 Avalon before you make that decision. Amazing.

The Black Jet

4.9
The Black Jet on 04/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my second Avalon, and it is an incredible driving machine. There is simply no comparing it to the 3.0 liter models. The 3.5 liter, 280 horsepower engine delivers incredible pickup, and the 5-speed automatic transmission shifts smooth and quick. The steering is responsive and the suspension is tuned to take curves without any sway. I really like the ergonomics of the steering column, telescoping, and fully articulate. Radio and climate controls are embedded within the steering wheel, which greatly reduces driver disorientation while cruising down the highway. I would recommend this car to anyone who enjoys the value of a stylish and responsive road machine. It's a Toyota!

exceptional value

4.4
kram on 04/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has to be the best value on the market. It is like a Lexus without the price and badge. It's the quietest car i test drove and I drove a lot of cars from German to Japanese. I have owned two Toyotas before this one. I expect the same incredible reliability i had with my last two Camrys.

Major improvements

4.9
George on 04/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had the Avalon Ltd since Feb 14 2005. Even though the styling is much improved over previous years its still not a head turner. The interior is fantsatic. Roomy Quiet and has some great features such as heated/ventilated ft seats, 360 watt stereo w/6cd in dash changer, hid headlights, etc. Great performance and gas milage combination when the engine is warm And using premium fuel. With 1300 miles on it I'm at 24mpg. With past vehicles the gas milage should be 18-20mpg for that level of performance. I would buy another one if I had to do it again. Oh yeah, its fun to drive. I look for places to go just so I can drive it some more.

2005 Avalon

3.9
ed on 04/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Good car, had 2004 avalon before this one is better. Tires are expensive to replace. rear seat are roomy and comfortable lot of power

Wow, great vehicle

5
Fran on 04/02/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought the Avalon XLS, wow what a vehicle. I have owned many Toyotas but they give you every thing with the Avalon. The V-6 is great, it has the get up and GO and gas mileage great. Comfort, ride, handling all are tops. The turning radius is wonderful with this vehicle. Can not say enough about the access and easy controls for radio, temperature control on steering wheel also individual climate controls on dash are not complicated at all. Under the hood everything easy to get to.

Great new design

4.5
Reno on 03/31/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So good I sold my BMW 750il

Good car; could begreat with AWS

4.5
ND on 03/30/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

2005 Avalon XLS is an excellent car that could be great automobile with All Wheel Drive and improved braking and navigation system

Solid compared to competition

4.4
avalon on 03/30/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Ahead of Chrysler300, Ford500, and Buick Lacrosse, but has several shortcomings. The throttle is lagging, not enough headroom in the back, more road noise than I expected, and the wood interior looks and feels decidedly fake. HID Headlights not available on XLS. The steering is too light for the "performance sedan". Overpriced compared to Lexus ES330.

Avalon -Wow

4.6
William Boothe on 03/29/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I had see previous Avalons and have not been impressed, just a Camry with a few more inches. When I saw the 2005 for the first time, I was awe struck. It is big, beautiful and sexy. If you need it to, it can haul out, if you know what I mean. Everyone I show it to loves it too. Get the White one, the best color for this car. What a car!

WOW!

4.9
George Hanover on 03/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I was happy with my Avalon XLS in 1996, liked my 99 Platinum Edition better, and was even more pleased with my 2002 XLS. But my new 2005 Limited is over the top. Sporty, comfortable, fun to drive, plenty of zip, the best Avalon mileage yet, and every bell and whistle imaginable, including Smart-key entry. I used to call them "the poor man's Lexus." I'll take my 05 Limited over the new GS Lexus.

Solid

5
Terry on 03/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Vehicle is solid. Very roomy inside. Nice stereo system. Great turn radius. And very powerful. Its very easy to speed without knowing it. The cabin is especially quiet.

Initial 05 Avalon impressions

5
Buffddriver on 03/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Avalon has just a few hundred miles on it so this may be considered a first impression review. The car is a large, very roomy, sleek sedan. The engine is silky smooth and very powerful. It drives like a dream with great visibility forward and a little less visibility than I like to the rear. The interior is beautiful and functional but the side mirror control is located behind the steering wheel and hard to see easily. I also like the large screen in the center dash that clearly shows stereo/am/fm controls, air conditioning temp controls (different for each seatin front)and gas milege, and distance to tank empty. The compass in the rear view mirror is neat also. Very nice ride.

Outstanding

5
Fran Patane on 03/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is the best car I have driven in a very long tine. Comfortable, easy to handle, and I feel like I am riding in a classy car. People have told me they tohought it was a Lexus. The heated adjustable seats are a great feature. Controls for heat and CD from the steering wheel are so much easier then reaching over. This is one classy car. Top of the Line. Fran Patane

2005 avalon limited

5
FTE on 03/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car. Quiet, powerful and ++ mileage. I traded a lincoln town car. I'm 6'7" and weigh 255. This may sound crazy, but the avalon is more comfortable!!! Be ready to study and I mean study the manual(s!) but the car is very intuitive.

Great Car

5
EasyRider on 03/22/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Improved over an already good car. Extra power, many interior improvements/upgrades. Very very quiet, smooth ride. Excellent handling, braking. Interior is large and comfortable, including reclining back seats. Many features are included in base price. Best car I've ever owned in 50 years of driving.

No buyers remorse here...

4.8
One Happy Driver on 03/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car serves as my main mode of business transportation and, essentially, my office. I have owned a lot of "business" vehicles over the years, but I have never owned one that was as comfortable and accomodating as the Avalon. It's powerful, spacious, quiet and a joy to travel in. The voice command and Navigation system takes a little getting used to, but once you figure out the correct lingo, it proves to be a practical and useful piece of technology. Toyota has finally designed an Avalon that is appealing to the "younger" driver in all of us. While I have often regretted spending a lot of money on other high priced vehicles, I definitly feel like I got what I paid for with this car.

Well built car

5
shyam on 03/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Well built car. Very smooth and responsive. Has sufficient gadgets inside to play around. This car is worth the money.

Best Avalon Ever

5
John Allen Albree on 03/21/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my 2005 Toyota Avalon XL on 3/16/05. Drove 8 hours to the dealer who gave me a great price and was great to work with. Traded in 2005 Camry XLE V6. The trip home was 456 miles and I registered 29.1mpg on Route 40. Probably the best car I have ever owned. Only options I have is floor mats and custom installed leather by a Chesapeake firm. This a fine automobile and a wonderful car to drive. Don't buy any car in this class without testing the Avalon.

May get car of the year

5
KMurray on 03/20/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Extremely quiet, great ride, enjoy the power of the 280 hp engine..it really moves,got 31.66 mpg at 78 mph,we need that kind of mileage today, I liked the car before but did not like the style ... the new look is much better ... even got two exhaust pipes at the rear, transmisson up shifts are perfect but down shifts could be improved in 1st and 2nd.

Avalon Limited

4.9
Avalonbuyer on 03/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The 2005 Avalon Limited is a great vehicle at the right price. Lots of luxury accessories; smooth and quite ride; lots of interior room; and lots of truck space.

Satisfied Driver

4.6
2005 Avalon XLS on 03/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife and I owned a 1998 Avalon for 5 years and it was the best car/value we had ever owned.Resale was great.The TV commercials for the new 2005 Avalon were not particularly flattering and do not do it justice.The 2005 is much more roomy and powerful and is a dream to drive.The XLS does not seem to have as many standard features as it did in the past (standard features compare more closely to older XL models) but offers most as options.The 17-inch Michelin tires/wheels are worth the upgrade from XL model as you can feel the difference in a test drive.The new 280 HP engine is noticably more responsive and the larger interior space is a pleasure. Very quiet.We'll happily keep it for years.

Nice car

4.8
sam on 03/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Smooth as silk on the highway or in town.. Acceleration numbers to 60mph just 2/10s off the pace of a Chrysler 300C. Mileage numbers only 6 mpg less than Honda Accord hybrid. Delivered 30.9 on recent hwy trip and is delivering true 20 mpg in town. Good value. Lots of nice unsolicited comments from people in parking lots. With Nav and headrest DVDs, grandson calls it the spacechip car.

Unlimited Enjoyment

5
lai Khe Louie on 03/19/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My last car was a 2003 Avalon XLS. A really nice car except for its bland looks. The 2005 Avalon, 3d generation, is a quantum improvement over the 2d generation line. There is much to like and little to dislike. First of all, the car is very good looking, great lines and well proportioned. The interior setup is very nice, extremely comfortable, and hushed at highway speed. Although the suspension is soft, there is remarkably little body lean when traversing an interstate clover leaf. Acceleration is more than adequate whether going from zero to sixty or sixty to ninety. I am also happy with the mileage, I easily am getting 29 MPG on the highway. Very happy that I made this purchase.

2005 Toyota XLS

4.9
Ken on 03/18/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love it. I like the way it looks inside and out. The new engine is very powerful, smooth and quiet. There is lots of room for rear seat passengers. My neighbor is six feet five inches tall and he had plenty of room.

Amazing Vehicle

5
Ron on 03/17/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Wow! What a car. Have owned it for a month now. Just finished a 1500 mile trip. Smooth, quiet, comfortable. Mileage per tank ranged from 29.5 to 30.8! Incredible for a 280 hp engine. Tremendous room. Awesome passing power which you never even hear in the cabin. Have never owned, or even seen, anything to match this car!

Nice ride

5
RICH on 03/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

So far so good. Even my 15 yr old daughter and her friends love this car. I have the Limited. Great stereo. Almost as good as my TL's 5.1. The only problem I have is that the dual exhust dosen't seem to match the other side. One is higher. One is set out more... Great ride....

First Peak At the New Avalon

5
millem3 on 03/16/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My wife just bought a new Avalon at the Minneapolis Car Show last weekend. She Just Loves it! It is great, because now she "volunteers" to run all the errands (pick up kids from basketball, gynastics, grocery shopping, etc) because she just lovers her new Toyota. What a Feeling!!!

My XLS Avalon 2005/06

5
Just Me on 03/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my fourth Avalon. By far it's the best. My last one was the 2004 XL. This new XLS style is more refined and elegant style. At times I'm not sure the engine was turned on, it's so quiet. I only have around 450 miles on the odometer but it seems that I will get over 30 MPG on the highway. I already got over 23 MPG in the city. That's better than my 04. It is a wonderful automobile that offers so much comfort as I travel down the road. It may not have the Lexus name plate, but it sure feels and handles like one, yet cost thousands less. It's spacious inside and offers a silent retreat from the stresses of the day because everything works so well, all the buttons are at your fingertips.

Almost Perfect

5
Bulldog on 03/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2005 Avalon Limited is proving to be the favorite family car. We're getting 24 MPG city and almost 28 MPG on the highway. When you start it in the morning it sounds like a diesel. The toyota dealer said this is the variable valve timing at work. Once it warms up, the noise disappears. Ride quality is flawless and comfort rivals Lexus vehicles I've owned. In fact, I'd call this a Lexus for $10- 15K less. I plan on keeping this car for quite awhile.

Love My Avalon

5
hutch34 on 03/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I came out of an Acura MDX into the Avalon. I waited for months for the new Acura RL to come out but was disappointed in it's cramped feeling. IMO the Avalon is just as nice as the RL but much more comfortable. It approaches Lexus quality at a Toyota price. A really fine automobile.

AMAZINGLY LUXURIOUS VEHICLE!!

5
Susan Marquez on 03/14/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my New Avalon. It has all the bells and whistles I wanted. It is so comfortable inside and so stylish outside. I am so happy that I chose this car over a Lexus without all the bells and whistles.

On the Road

4.9
Donald Frank Colvin on 03/14/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The new 2005 handles like a dream. Is quiet, maneuvers like a cheetah. I have yet to step on the gas full as of now because the 280 HP is way more than it needs. The temperature should be displayed at all times but it is not. I think the new engine is a little more noisy than my 98 Avalon but it is still very quiet in the passenger compartment. The sound system is fantastic. I have only 350 + miles on the car to date and the expected milage is as good if not better than advertised.

Toyota Does It Again

4.9
dochurt on 03/13/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We own a 2000 Avalon XLS and it has been the best car we ever purchased. It motivated us to purchase a 2005 as our second car. The 2005 is bigger, quieter and gets better gas mileage than the 2000--about 30 mpg on the highway. For some explained reason, Toyota did not install the double sun visors with extensions on the 2005 model, which is my only complaint. Superb automobile--the best buy for your money.

Glorious New Avalon

5
Suburban Toyota on 03/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The new Avalon is everything you'd want out of a Toyota. It's fast, comfortable, and full of fantastic features.

Love My Avalon

5
dina c on 03/09/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I never thought of buying an avalon until I saw the new style...The minute I got into I loved it....When I test drove it I knew I had to have one..The pick up is awesome...the interior is enormous...I cannot find one thing wrong with this car...When I compared it to the ES 300 I found this car was bigger, faster and all the features were similar....The price tag wasn't...Before you pay more for the Lexus check out this car...you will be surprised just like as I was....

2005 Avalon XLS

4.9
docdearth2 on 03/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I compared this vehicle with the Acura TL and the Infiniti G-35. I would have been happy with any one of these three cars. The Avalon, however, is larger and has considerably more front and rear leg room for 4 passengers. The 280 hp engine is very powerful and smooth as is the ride. It has considerably more trunk space than the G-35 which is also quite a bit smaller. Value-wise I feel the Avalon is comparable with cars in the $40,000 range. The new styling is more sporty and not as stodgy as the older models. I had leased an Avalon previously in 1997, and found it to be an extremely reliable performer with a lot of comfort and conveniences. The newer model raises the bar even further.

Very Satisfied

5
Outstanding Auto on 03/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car from end to end. It drives like a dream, very comfortable interior and user friendly instruments for the driver.Lots of power from the V6! I went from a 10 year owner of a Camray to a Dodge and back to Toyota. I never had a problem with the Camray and I don't expect any with the Avalon. The saftey features on this auto make me feel very safe on interstates. One more thing. Owning this car will attrack attention!

2005 TOYOYA AVALON

5
MARK on 03/08/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Keyless ignition is a bit confusing. While entering the car in a rainstorm, the car decided not to allow me to start it. I had to have my family stand in the rain until I could reset the start mode. Also, the laser cruise control doesn't work in the rain. I found this out the hard way! The navigation is great, but there are lots of buttons to press. Gas mileage on our first road trip of 600 miles gave us 27.1 mpg. This is just what they advertised. Very solid and with all the air bags, you feel very safe. The engine is much stronger than my previous older style Avalon. The warm and cold seats are great with long drives and a bad back. I'm very happy with this purchase!

05 Avalon

5
lphickey on 03/07/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Sleek new body style, interior well appointed and controls in easy reach, far above the 2000 I traded. Toyota has taken the Avalon to a new plateau.

Best car I have ever owned

5
sharon McElravy on 03/06/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have purchased a new car ever 2 to 3 years since 1974, and this is the best one yet. The cost was a little bit more than I usually spend, but I feel it was well worth it. It handles great, has a great appearance inside and out. Everthing is at your finger tips, you don't have to reach around for things. There is only one thing that I would change; there is not a good place to put your cell phone or to charge it while driving. Other than that I would not change a thing.

2005 Avalon Limited

5
Bart on 03/04/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This 2005 Avalon Limited is a new style with many new options. Many new drive assistance features on the multi- purpose screen. Turn signals incorporated in outside mirrors are great. New dash/gauges are easy to read. Great ride and performance with the 3.5L engine and 5 speed transmission with bump up or down gear shifting. Telescoping and tilt wheel are great. Heated and cooled seats using air flow are really comfortable. Looks more modern that previous style.

is newer better ?

3.9
john flanagan on 03/01/2005

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Avalon was past ready for an update. Changing the platform from the LS 430 to the new GS 300 however was a radical departure some won't like. Improved handling with somewhat less comfort and the feel of less room is one trade you make. Mileage is down, to be expected w/ a 280 hp engine. Build quality is superb! The new display system is awkward and cumbersome, replacing the digital broad spectrum info always available on the old car . I bought the Limited. Smarter folks than I will either opt for the XLS or blow the extra bucks for the Lexus and take the higher resale when the time comes . A great new Toyota, but is it really a new Avalon ?

Great car!

5
Stan Sarama on 02/27/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great quality and quite a value when compared to competition. Have been an Acura owner and fan for the past ten years. When compared to the new RL this car served my needs and wallet a lot better. Love every aspect as compared to either RL or TL. Have no comlaints about either my old 2000 RL or 96 TL; however, at this point the 2005 Avalon is a much better buy for me than either of the Acura current offerings.

What a GREAT Car

5
Russ on 02/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The new body and interior are fabulous. The '05 is bigger, roomier, and gutsy beyond simliar model cars. I have a '95 Avalon with 230,000 that has been handed down to my son; car runs like a top. If you know anything about Toyota reliablity you know it's second to none. This purchase broke one of my rules of normally buying year old, but when I saw this car, and then drove this car there was no turning back. There are serveral clever creature comforts inside and the 285hp make this a truly fun car to drive.

Excellent Car and Very Luxurious

5
qwerty1 on 02/26/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is very nice and beautiful. It has 280 Horsepower, which blows away the Nissan Maxima. The interior is very well set up and everything else that comes with the car is great.

Luxury Car for Moderate Money

4.5
Bill Fisher on 02/24/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car replaced our 2000 Avalon which was stellar. So far the experience is even better with the additional 70 HP compared to the old model and the quieter and more luxurious ride only increases our pleasure. We checked out everything in the price range and nothing came close for the dollar. This thing is whisper quiet, and for my driving style a perfect fit. This is not a sports machine so the handling isn't sports car tight but it is more than adequate for a luxo-mobile. The cabin of the Avalon is a great place to exist and it inspires confidence on the highway or around town. This wasn't my first Avalon and it won't be my last Avalon, I can already tell.

wow

4.9
vinny on 02/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is a real pleasure to drive, the new design is a big improvement from the previous years. I traded in my 2003 avalon for this and I am very happy,

Luxury w/a Modest Price Tag

4.9
Debra on 02/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded in my 2001 XLS Avalon (loaded w/55k mi) for the new 2005 XLS Avalon. It has the distinct look of a luxury car without the $40k-$70k price tag. It's like having a Lexus/BMW/Benz all in one. My spouse drives an S500 and he loves the take off and the drive of this car. The interior is superb.It's great to be able to control the temperature of the heated seats! For family trips, the roominess of the back seat is incredible. Not to mention that the reclining back seats! The trunk space is a little smaller than the previous model,but for the exchange for the comfort in the rear seating, makes it worthwhile. Temp/CD/Radio controls on steering wheel a big+. A great car.Makes heads turn. I love it!

This is one awesome car!

4.9
Kevin Burk on 02/24/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I spent the last several months researching luxury sedans..Acura, BMW, Lexus, Mercedes when my 18 yo daughter said I should see the new Avalon. This car does not disappoint, feature rich (the back seats recline!), car is larger than last years as is the interior. The ride is as smooth as the LS430. In the sedan genre this is the most bang for the buck of all that I looked into. You can pay more...get less and still not touch the beauty of this car. If you are looking do yourself a favor to check it out.

Best Car Toyota Has Ever Made

5
Keith W. on 02/23/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased the new 2005 Avalon Limited. It is by far the nicest vehicle Toyota has ever produced. I've owned a Camry and an Avalon previously, but this is practically a Lexus without paying the premium price. It reeks of luxury, comfort, and performance. The engine is much more powerful than my old Avalon, and the car is bigger inside. The car has all the bells and whistles one could possibly need, from the smart key entry, to remote starter, to XM Radio, to 6-Disc CD Changer, to laser cruise, to navigation, to even ventillated and heated from seats and reclinable rear seats. All in all, I feel like I stole this car. I got a Lexus or a Benz and paid half as much.

An Avalon for a younger generation

4.5
DC-T on 02/17/2005

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

A great car for the money! I wanted a nice commuter car but still enough room to carry the family when need be. The gas mileage is great considering the amount of horsepower available.

Awesome Avalon

5
ronn on 02/15/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

For anyone looking for a luxury car in the 30,000.00 range, you need to try this awesome car. It is the most quiet machine I have ever driven!!! It is smooth, and rides just as good as the Lexus 330 if not better. I have tried many cars out lately, and this one was on top. I drove 5 series BMW, Acura RL, and this 2005 Avalon has them beat!!! The new sleek body style is an eye-catcher and I have gotten lots of look's with this car. With its four models to choose from, there is one that will fit your needs! I chose the Limited model which is fully loaded and has the Navigation System and Laser Cruise Control. Heated and cooled seats are awesome as well.

Delightful Surprise

5
cwlgal on 02/12/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I traded a 2004 Lexus ES 330 on the 2005 Avalon. The Avalon is larger, more powerful, and is demonstrating better fuel economy; without a doubt, it's considerably faster. The Avalon is much more comfortable than the Lexus in both ride quality and seating. In my opinion, you're paying less money and getting more value. Also, you continue to be spoiled by Toyota's bullet-proof quality, what's not to like?

Another Excellent Car

5
Thomcin on 02/11/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great motor. Great 5 speed trans. Roomy. Lots of air bags and safety. Handles well. Good value.

Simply the Best car I've ever owned

5
Chris on 02/10/2005

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned two Lexus LS 400's prior to the 2005 Avalon. This car rides supremely well for a front wheel drive car and has 280 horsepower, that's about what was in my previous Lexus. It even accelerates like a V8! The seating is super comfortable, the car even has a power rear sunshade and rear reclining seats. The fit and finish is as usual with Toyota products, impeccable! All my friends think I bought the latest model Lexus LS 430, however at half the price.


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Overall Rating
10 / 10


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