2005 Toyota Avalon Review (continued)
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Walkaround

The Toyota Avalon has never been known for daring styling, and at first glance the new Avalon seems to offer only subtle changes. Yet, with just a few well-defined design strokes, the new Avalon manages to project more character, more contemporary energy than ever before.

A good part of this new image comes from a wider, longer stance. The size of the car, five inches longer than the previous-generation (pre-2005) model, is emphasized from the rear, where a tall rear deck, large tail lamps and dual rear exhaust outlets suggest an expensive touring sedan. The handsome rear deck line remains undisturbed by a wing, except in the Touring grade, which mounts a rear lip spoiler consistent with its sporty wheels and brighter accents.

The front of the Avalon is dominated by a horizontal grille, with chrome-accented bars, and a wide lower intake valence calling attention to greater width. The lines created by the valence are extended by use of fog lamps on the Touring, XLS and Limited models.

The effect is to create an expansive definition of an elegant, if unassuming, sedan. And it works. Side by side with the 2004 model, the all-new 2005 Avalon appears sleek, powerful, and advanced.

Interior Features

The Avalon interior is remarkably clean and uncluttered. Retracting lids hide audio controls and the navigation system controls, so the dash and console design avoids a sense of undue complexity. The action of the retracting covers is slow and measured, with the look and satisfying feel of high-end audio equipment. The result is a dash and front compartment that is simple and sophisticated at the same time.

Rear legroom is particularly generous with three-across seating facilitated by elimination of the rear hump. At one point we rode in the rear seat, directly behind a six-foot driver, with legroom to spare. In fact, enough room that we could imagine the Avalon as a taxi cab.

Part of the rear-seat comfort is due to the fact that the seats offer 10 degrees of adjustment to create five sitting positions. As the backrest is reclined, headroom is increased, so people of varying heights and sizes can be comfortable in the back.

The trunk is family sized as well, with a pass-through door for long gear such as skis. Wood accents, particularly on the Limited, are attractive and judiciously placed. The chrome door scuff plates on the Touring grade, particularly, are notably attractive and distinctive.

The Optitron instruments are elegant and technically appealing displays, round as in the previous Avalon, but unmistakably advanced.