2005 Toyota Avalon Trims and Specs

Toyota's flagship sedan has been completely redesigned for 2005, growing larger and more luxurious than ever before. Highlights include a more powerful V-6 engine and several new convenience features.

Avalon's new engine is a 3.5 liter DOHC V-6, generating 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. A more refined five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission has been added. and all Avalons are front wheel drive. The Avalon now zips from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. Toyota's Variable Valve Timing + intelligence system improves fuel economy, and this larger and more powerful Avalon will still get 22 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway.

The XL is the entry point for the four model Avalon lineup. Standard equipment includes a nine-speaker CD audio system, full power accessories, a telescoping steering wheel, a power driver's seat, automatic climate control, and cruise control.

The new Avalon has been extremely well-reviewed by both consumers and test drivers, offering Lexus craftsmanship and materials at a sub-$30,000 price.

While the full-size Avalon has always been classified as a luxury car, but was historically much more a Toyota than a Lexus. The new third generation model, released in 2005, narrows that gap considerably.

The new Avalon is quite similar in appearance to the 2005 Lexus ES 350, which has also been redesigned. The Avalon's antiquated front bench seat has been discontinued this year. Toyota's flagship sedan has grown in all dimensions, and the previous commonplace styling has vanished in favor of a bolder look.

The Touring trim is the second tier in Avalon's four-model 2005 lineup. This model is intended as sporty variation, adding 17-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension system. The Touring interior includes leather seating and aluminum trim. Other standard features include a power driver's seat, a cabin air filter, automatic climate control, a nine-speaker CD audio system, full power accessories, and cruise control.

The 3.5 liter engine is new this year, replacing the prior 3.0 liter 210 hp V-6. It is paired with a five-speed electronically controlled transmission. This DOHC, VVT-enhanced power plant generates 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, and sends the Avalon from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds.

The Toyota Avalon enters its third generation in 2005, and now larger and more powerful than the previous model. The Lexus ES 350's power plant may now be found under the hood of all Avalon trims.

Like its sister ES 350, the 2005 Avalon is quite quick: running from 0 to 60 mph in about seven seconds. Avalon's new engine, also now used in the RAV4, is a 3.5 liter DOHC V-6, mated to a five speed electronically controlled transmission. 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque is delivered to the front wheels. Fuel economy is estimated at 22/31 mpg.

Toyota's flagship now has a more athletic and aggressive appearance, and it has expanded in all dimensions. The new model is six inches longer, and one inch both wider and taller.

The XLS is the third tier in the Avalon lineup, and costs just $2000 less than the luxurious Avalon Limited. Full power accessories, cruise control, a cabin air filter, automatic climate control, a nine-speaker audio system with a six-disc CD changer and a power moon roof all come standard. The XLS is also eligible for a navigation system.

The Toyota Avalon first appeared in 1995, as a replacement for the discontinued Toyota Cressida. However, the Avalon was a different breed of car for Toyota, borrowing many design elements from the increasingly popular Lexus sedans of the mid-1990s.

The Avalon has never been know for its performance or looks, but a fully redesigned model emerges for 2005, and Toyota hopes to change the commonplace character of this full-size luxury car.

The Limited trim is the top shelf Avalon, and it is currently Toyota's most expensive car. All four Avalon models come standard with automatic climate control, full power accessories and a moon roof. Exclusive Limited features include perforated leather seats with both heating and cooling, wood trim, keyless ignition, and a premium JBL audio system. A navigation system and laser-adaptive cruise control are both optional.

The Lexus ES 350's 3.5 liter V-6 is new this year, providing the Avalon with 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Power has jumped by nearly 60 horses, and the Avalon now zips from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds. A five speed electronically controlled automatic transmission routes power to the front wheels.