The Avalon is to the entry-lux class as the Lexus LS430 is to the ultra-lux class at twice the price: roomy, supremely comfortable, extremely refined, impeccably- constructed inside, surprisingly quick, but designed only for relaxed driving. For the Avalon would have landed the first place position here without a second thought, if its handling reflexes were any better than the larger Camry that it is. It isn't as clumsy as the smaller (also Camry-based) Lexus ES330, surprisingly enough, but both are a distinct step below the next least-agile cars in this group. The Avalon should be close to ideal for consumers who aren't looking for any level of sport in their car, for it only feels numb and lazy in fast cornering, not unsafe. But those looking for a fun car will have to find their grins only in the car's impressive acceleration, or look elsewhere.

          The Avalon rides extremely well, very absorbent over road imperfections large and small, and its soft tuning doesn't give it nearly the same levels of ride float as the Lexus ES330. Of course, when there is little attempt being made to provide a ride/handling compromise, it is not surprising that it would excel at one but not the other. Thus, the Avalon responds poorly to fast curves, with numb, rather slow steering response and pronounced body roll. As noted, it doesn't feel unsafe, simply clumsy, even compared to other family sedans or even other large sedans. Consumers looking for driving fun who remain interested in the Avalon can at least be impressed with its 280-horsepower V6, which provides surprisingly prompt acceleration. This V6 is also notably smooth and quiet, but fortunately lacks the disconcerting silence that wouldn't be unexpected during acceleration, though engine, wind, and road noise are impressively-hushed at other times. Fuel economy, at 25 miles per gallon according to the EPA, is better even than many four-cylinder cars here, and is exceptional for a 280-horsepower full-size car. 

        Inside, the Avalon has very large, very roomy, very supportive, and very comfortable front seats. The Limited version's driver-seat extender is supposed to improve thigh support, but makes little difference to any driver whose legs are not within the few inches that the seat can change. The rear is very roomy, nicely-shaped, and very comfortable, even by the standards of large sedans. The rear seats can recline, which helps occupants choose their optimum seat angle, though most will probably find the standard upright position more comfortable anyway. The interior features exceptional construction and materials quality. Some competitors feature real-wood trim instead of the Avalon's facsimile, but it appears convincing enough and is used in tasteful amounts. The gauges are large and very clear, and the instruments are nicely laid out beneath hinged doors that may as well remain open during the duration of ownership. Drivers sit very comfortably, and have excellent visibility. Notably wide doors, a high roof, wide footwells, and high seats contribute to very easy entry/exit. The trunk is disappointing small for such a large car, though still good overall by the standards of this group, and isn't particularly well-shaped.

          The Avalon did very well in crash testing, earning the highest available scores in each test that it has been subjected to: a Best Pick in the IIHS offset crash test, five stars for both the driver and for the front passenger in the NHTSA frontal crash test, and five stars for both the driver and for the rear passenger in the NHTSA side crash test. It remains to be seen, however, whether the Avalon can keep this record when it is subjected to the demanding IIHS side crash test later this year.

          The Avalon reviewed here was rather expensive by this group's standards, but came extremely well-equipped as well. $34,194 buys the expected six airbags plus an additional knee-protecting unit for the driver, heated and cooled front seats, a sunroof, a power rear sunshade, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a keyless starting system. Additional premium features such as a navigation system and an adaptive cruise control system are available. Consumers desiring only the more-basic luxury features for less money can find a reasonably-equipped Avalon that includes leather seats for around $28,000, if this version's sticker shock proves insurmountable.

       Overall, the Avalon is a best-in-class vehicle for consumers who aren't interested in a sporty drive. Roomy, comfortable, refined, well-finished powerful, and reasonably-priced, it is the most convincing luxury car here. But as it seriously lacks the faintest touch of the fun-to-drive handling found even in some large-sedan competitors, it does not present the well-rounded package required for a first-place slot here. But consumers interested mainly in comfort, quality, refinement, and overall luxury, this is a top choice.

Pros:

-Interior Space

-Ride Comfort

-Refinement

-Acceleration

-Interior Quality

-Fuel Economy

-Safety Ratings

Cons:

-Agility

Overall:

The all-out luxury cruiser of this group.

Version Reviewed:

Limited

Price of Version Reviewed:

$34,194

Powertrain:

3.5-liter V6