Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2009 Toyota Avalon 4-Door LTD Sedan. And I have to tell you I wasn’t real thrilled with prior models. Daughter Jenny had one and they weren’t so thrilled with it either. But this year model is really nice. I think I like it better because it more resembles the styling of the Camry, which of course is the top seller for Toyota.
It has an elegant look and feel inside that is further embellished by seats that heat and cool and a very smooth ride doesn’t hurt the overall feel either.
General Info:
Parts – n/a
Assembly – United States
Class: – Large Cars
Cars: – 4Runner, Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Camry Solara, Corolla, FJ Cruiser, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser, Matrix Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, Venza and Yaris.
It is fast and a real pleasure to drive. Overall it is a great ride.
Styling:
The best yet for style of the Avalon in my opinion. Much more elegant than prior model years.
Fit and Finish:
Excellent.
Cost:
Not bad pricing and if you add the options like voice activated DVD Navigation with upgraded radio and CD changer, Bluetooth, and dynamic laser cruise the price goes up to $38,000.
Conveniences and comfort:
Some of the more impressive creature comforts, for me, include the heat and cool seats, a keyless start system becoming more popular in several makes. That feature allows you to open and lock doors, start and stop the engine simply by having the key fob in your pocket or purse. The other most appreciated feature is the Smart Laser Cruise Control that senses the car in front of you and maintains a safe distance automatically.
Consumer Recommendation:
Perhaps the most interesting competitor to this Avalon is the newest kid on the block – Hyundai Azera. It is definitely worth a close look for a couple of reasons – it is well priced and they may be more motivated do deal.
Recognized Competition:
Toyota Avalon $28-35,000, Hyundai Azera $25-29,000, Pontiac G8 $28-38,000, Mercury Sable $25-31,000, Mercury Grand Marquis $29,270, Chevrolet Impala $24-30,000, Buick Lacerne $29-39,000, Dodge Charger $24-38,000, Chrysler 300 $27-45,000, Nissan Maxima $30-33,000, Lincoln MKS $41-48,000, Ford Taurus $25-37,000.
Good News:
Great state of the art technology features, great ride, elegant interior, nicer Avalon styling and decent fuel economy for powerful performer.
Bad News:
None.
Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 268 hp V6 engine, 6-speed auto transmission, front – side and side curtain airbags and driver knee airbag, 4-wheel ABS Electronic brake force distribution power brakes, stability control with traction control, tire pressure monitor system, daytime running lights and fog lights, 17” alloy wheels, anti theft and engine immobilizer system, power moonroof, rain sensing wipers, power mirrors, auto on/off Halogen headlights, smart key with pushbutton start, JBL AM/FM 6 disc CD changer with 12 speakers, 360 watts, SAT capable, Bluetooth, perforated leather seats with driver’s memory seat and power lumbar, driver and front passenger heated and ventilated seats, rear reclining seats, power rear sunshade, tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate control and cruise controls, dual zone climate control, wood grained style and leather shift knob and steering wheel.
Gas Stats:
$2.98/ Gal avg. October 11, ‘09
for more information.
19 City and 28 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $35,185.
