Toyota’s top-shelf 2012 Avalon Limited is the quintessential 5-passenger full-size sedan. Packed with 14.4 cubic feet of trunk space, passenger room galore and V6 power and pizzazz, this family-oriented 4-door also flaunts a power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and heated power-adjustable mirrors on its handsome frame.
Inside, look for premium leather upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats, reclining rear seats, a power rear sunshade, leather, simulated wood and simulated alloy accents, full power accessories and memory for driver's settings. Cruise control and tilt-wheel steering also adorn the high-end Avalon Limited, with a standard universal remote garage door opener, rear-view camera and auto-dimming rear-view mirror also thrown in.
Techno-goodies, meanwhile, include standard Bluetooth hands-free communications, as well as a 495-watt JBL premium audio system with an MP3-capable 6-CD changer, 12 Surround Sound speakers, a USB port, satellite radio and auxiliary iPod integration.
Optional equipment available to the flagship Avalon Limited includes the Preferred Accessory Package and the Protection Package, with carpeted floor mats, glass breakage sensors, rear bumper appliqués and door edge guards all available with one package or the other. Finally, remote engine start, a rear spoiler and a navigation suite are all available as standalone options.
Powering the front-wheel-drive (FWD) 2012 Avalon Limited is a variable-valve-timed (VVT) 3.5-liter V6 engine that mates with the standard 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission for 268 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. If, for some reason, towing capacity is a factor, look for a maximum of 1,000 pounds with the proper equipment, while mileage is again estimated at 19 mpg city/28 highway.
Finally, the 2012 Avalon Limited boasts standard 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front headrest whiplash protection and front side-mounted airbags as part of its notable standard safety equipment. Further standard safety items include daytime running lights, front fog/driving lights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors and a remote antitheft alarm, with an optional Emergency Assistance Kit providing a number of handy roadside emergency aids.