The Toyota Avalon is certainly one of the top, if not "the top", large sedan in its price segment ($30,000). It's noted for its strong yet fuel-efficient V6 engine, its high-quality-material interior, strong crash-test scores, and upscale feature availability.
And there's few changes in the new 2009 model, other than the addition of still more standard features, such as stability control, satellite-radio-ready audio systems and active (whiplash-reducing) headrests. One point of note, however, is the dropping of the Touring model.
The 2009 Toyota Avalon is classified as a "large sedan" and is offered in three model choices: XL, XLS and Limited.
Standard Features And Options:
Standard features on the already well-equipped Avalon XL include full power accessories, 16 inch alloy wheels, power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, reclining rear seats, and a nine-speaker stereo with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and auxiliary audio jack.
The more luxurious Avalon XLS has all of the above, plus a sunroof, leather upholstery, interior wood-grain trim, power front passenger seat, heated outside mirrors, and auto-dimming driver-side and rearview mirrors.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Avalon Prices:
Toyota's sales have been weak for over a year, along with most of the other carmakers. There's no question that dealers are struggling in this weak economy ... which means there are some extremely good deals to be had right now on a new Camry ... often below invoice prices, sometimes far below.
See the link at the bottom of this article for exactly how to get the lowest price on a new Toyota Avalon.
The top-level Limited model rounds things up by adding rain-sensing wipers, keyless ignition, keyless entry, perforated leather seats with heating and cooling, memory seats, a power rear sunshade, Bluetooth and an upgraded 12-speaker JBL audio system.
Also available as options on the XL are most of the features on the XLS and Limited. And depending on the model, other available options include navigation, a laser-based adaptive cruise control, and an upgraded power passenger seat.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
All models of the front-wheel-drive Avalon are powered by an athletic 3.5 liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, and is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The EPA gas mileage estimate for the 2009 Avalon comes in at 19 mpg city and 28 on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient full-size sedans on the market.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all 2009 Avalons include antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, active front headrests, and a driver-side knee airbag.
In government crash testing, the Toyota Avalon impressively earned a perfect five stars in all frontal impact tests for both driver and passenger protection. It also earned the same top ratings for side-impact driver and passenger protection.
Interior:
With its glowing Optitron gauges, high-quality materials, and attractive and user-friendly layout, the interior of the Avalon certainly has an upscale look and feel. And there's a sleek appearance to the dash due to its movable panels that hide the radio and navigation controls.
Seating is comfortable in all models, both front and back, but particularly so in the Limited, with its available ventilated seats and seat-cushion length adjuster. Legroom is ample, even for a full-size sedan, and the rear seats manually recline allowing for even more passenger space. With the generous interior room, however, trunk space comes in at 14.4 cubic feet, slightly less than average when compared to other full-size sedans.
Drive:
On the open highway, the 2009 Avalon is certainly at its best. Built for comfort, quietness, smooth cruising and easy passing power, the Avalon is a pleasure on long trips. Still, while not intended to awe-inspire on those twisty, demanding back roads, the Avalon holds its own quite well. While its light steering isn't sporty, it's still responsive and precise. And perhaps surprisingly, its very tight turning radius adds useful city nimbleness.
Price:
How To Buy A New Toyota Avalon At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Avalon, here's a technique that will show you how to buy one at the best possible price, especially given the current slow economic environment.
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