2007 Toyota Avalon Review
The Avalon debuted in 1995 as Toyota’s first full-size car. Established as an inexpensive near-luxury car, the Avalon was set as a direct competitor to Chrysler and Buick. After some minor styling changes and a power boost in 1998, the second generation debuted in 2000. The second Avalon had a slight boost in performance, and added a standard AC power outlet. But that feature, along with optional front bench seats, was dropped when the third generation debuted in 2005. However, the Avalon received a massive engine boost, and two more trim levels were added: Touring and Limited. Toyota had to scale back the Avalon’s horsepower rating to 268 after new 2006 SAE specifications, but stability control became available on the XLS and Limited trims.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Toyota Avalon‘s base trim is a good car, but seems like a poor purchase when compared to some domestic models. But if you have the money to spend on the Limited, plus options, the Avalon becomes an incredible value when compared to other luxury labels, such as Mercedes. Featuring a number of luxury amenities, combined with Toyota’s quality, make the Avalon the best buy in luxury.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Avalon has a great reliability history that has improved with age. J.D. Power gives it four and a half out of five stars in initial reliability. Reliability issues in the first generation were mostly limited to vehicle noise. The second generation had some water leakage issues and noisy moonroofs. The current Avalon had some engine stalling and a sticking audio system door in 2005. The current Avalon has been recalled twice: Once in 2005 for a loose steering yolk that lead to loss of control, and again for 2005-06 for improperly inflated airbags. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Avalon earned perfect scores in government crash tests, and the IIHS’ best “Good” score for front and side impacts. However, it earned the IIHS’ worst “Poor” score for rear impacts. Side airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, and anti-lock brakes are standard. Brake assist, along with traction and stability control are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Great reliability history
+ Strong crash test scores
+ Powerful engine
Cons
– Poor rear crash scores
– Bland exterior
– Few features for price
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Avalon compares poorly to domestics in terms of price/features. The Chevrolet Impala LTZ costs $500 less, and adds leather seats and more cargo capacity. However, the Avalon has a five-speed automatic and a bit more horsepower. Even the Ford Five Hundred is a better deal, costing about the same, but having a six-speed automatic, CD changer, leather seats, and much more cargo capacity. The upper-class Mercury Montego Premier, for $500 more than the Avalon, throws in all the advantages of the Five Hundred, plus traction control. But the Avalon beats both the Five Hundred and Montego in engine power, by about 60 horses.
What Others Are Saying:
“Compare Toyota Motor’s Avalon, which the company recently overhauled, to DaimlerChrysler’s entry-level Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan, which costs $24,000 more. The Avalon has more horsepower and torque, as well as more shoulder room, hip room and backseat legroom. You should only spend that $24,000 extra for the Mercedes if image means a great deal to you — and if you’re willing to forego the E-Class’ endemic problems with reliability. Otherwise, you don’t need to be a coupon-clipper to see the superior value of the Avalon.” – Forbes
“Still, when you consider size, power, and the array of optional gadgets, plus the fact that it’s built to last for eons, the Avalon is an outstanding bargain for its price. If you want a big, comfortable luxury car but don’t feel the need to impress the world with a fancy brand-name slapped on the trunk, the 2005 Toyota Avalon is the car to buy.” – About.com
“Ironically, the Avalon is more old-school American than its newest U.S.-badged competitors. The Avalon’s steering is overboosted, and early terminal understeer rewards any enthusiastic input. A new Avalon Touring model with stiffer dampers and springs improves things somewhat, but no Avalon is a challenge for a Chrysler 300-or even a Ford Five Hundred-on a twisty road. But that’s really beside the point. The people who buy the Avalon will continue to love it for its value, space, and lack of pretense. As for us, we’ll hold out for a livelier car that makes use of this excellent new V-6.” – Automobile Magazine
Read more about the 2007 Toyota Avalon at the Toyota manufacturer web site.
