Which by then your vehicle choice(s) will have changed, again.
Well, as I have been gathering more input: my choices have sort of "stabilized", meaning they are much less likely to change (unless if some other factor jumps out of nowhere). That being said, for an investment of this magnitude: it's only prudent to carefully analyze the available options. And re-evaluate over time. About a month ago, I was changing my mind every day. Now, I'm pretty much set on the Avalon Limited (but ready to jump to the ES 330 if I find *some* deal-breaker from my #1 choice).
The new ES330 or ES335 whichever engine they decide to put in will be out.
Yes, there will be new models out by that time (except the update for the ES 330 will be coming out after the Fall 2005 time-frame). But, a good example is the Azela from Hyundai. To be frank though, I am doubtful it's mileage will be acceptable and even though Hyundai's reliability figures are improving, I'd rather go with a manufacturer that has maintained high reliability over a period of time.
So, as of that posting: my decision is pretty close to solid. Otherwise, I'll be sure to update folks however, once the fall is here.
Deanie: I spoke with a woman at UBS who had been there some 20 years.( I think she was the manager). She asked would I mind going to Glen Burnie for the car. Since my daughter lives in Ellicott City nearby, I said no problem. There was absolutely no problem with going to Glen Burnie since no other dealer in Montgomery County was willing to go UBS. I purchased a titanium Limited with wheel locks, mats and VSC for 31,947 which was $600 above invoice but did not include the usual $99 charge for dealer prep so essentially it was $500 over invoice. UBS is prohibited from charging dealer prep but you do pay for freight and advertisement fee which is included in all Central Atlantic cars. Bottom line was 33717.35 including tax, tag and title fees at whatever MD charges with no add ons plus $1000 for the 7 year, 100,000 mile, 0 deduct platinum warranty. Grand total of $34717.35 with tags and warranty. Took exactly one month to the day to get the car. Deanie let me know if that is enough info for you.
a couple of items worth remembering regarding the hesiation problems with the 05 avavlon: since the car has drive by wire throttle linkage, it may not be a transmission issue. compromises in driveability have been made in the name of cleaner air.
also, ANY automatic transmission is a compromise. that's the price we pay for not having to work a clutch and shift a lever. coming up to my driveway, my tranny will downshift at 19 mph, causing a momentary blip in the rpm's, i adjust my speed accordingly to compensate for this "issue"...small price to pay for letting the transmission do the work.
lastly, someone reported that the 5 speed in the avalon is NOT adaptive...that may explain why, under certain low speed driving conditions, some owner's are reporting the hesitation problem. jackg 90eville 96k
My thoughts exactly. Some of the "problems" the pro-hesitation crowd is describing can be duplicated in just about any car with a slusbox. The Avalon does have a manual shift mode although it is really not a true manual transmission. You can always use that feature if you want more spirited performance. Also makes driving a lot more fun too.
You are very welcome! I live in Goodyear, Arizona, just west of Avondale. So, at the very least, you can drop by, show off, and let me drool over your new set of wheels! I promise not to get any on the paint or seats! I still don't have a delivery date for my Blizzard Pearl Limited.
For the sake of other users, I would like to point out that my original post was removed and I was chastised for posting a link to the dealer's site ('Sorry, Pat!). So, I will now take the time to refamiliarize myself with the Rules of the Road for which there is a link at the top of the page.
Thank you! Those pictures on ebay are exactly what I was looking for, even if the color wasn't. I was hoping for a little more "candy apple red" than the maroon that it really is. Am sure I'll learn to love it though. Mine is due in in about two weeks.
You wrote: " I expected it would be like the silky big-car feel of my beloved '02, but instead it is more choppy and feels every pebble."
An XLS I tested felt the same way, and I assumed it was because of the 17" tires plus the particular brand (whatever that was). I find, though, that the 16" tires on my new XL ride as silky smooth as does my '03 Avalon. Because tires can make such a huge difference in ride quality, you might consider risking the financial switch to another brand. I'd suggest Goodyear Assurance, a new tire which for ride and handling have really upgraded my '03.
Thank you for the help. Interestingly enough, the color on this site is some different from the colors on barclay3's recommendation to go to the touring model being auctioned off on ebay. A lot of variables I guess. Different cameras, different computer screens; and also in digital photography, colors differ with light intensity and source. Guess I'm just going to have to wait for the real thing and see how it looks in the FL sun.
Thought you all would like to see the new 05 Avalon engine with the lid off. Notice that the V-6 is rotated so that we see only 1 bank of cylinders. The black manifold at top of picture are variable length intake manifold runners.
The two pictures show the audio text display for the 05 Avalon Limited with NAV and the 12-speaker JBL audio system, and the Toyota XM radio. Pardon the fuzzy focus.
First picture shows display for a CD which has been burned with CD-text data. Note that it shows disc name and track name, but not artist name. There appears to be no limit on the number of characters in these names.
The second picture shows the display for a typical XM radio station. In this case, it shows song title and artist name, but not album title. The text for this XM data is limited to 10 characters, so you get chopped-off names.
I just can't believe that anyone approved that XM display, chopping the text to 10 characters. Whose bright idea was that? Does anyone know if that is a limitation of the data that XM radio sends out? I would doubt that.
In both displays, there is no need for the large "TEXT" title, I think we already know that. So in each case, they could have displayed the missing info - show the artist name with CD's and the album name with XM. I just get really aggrevated when I see poorly executed designs like this. It would have taken no more effort to do the job right.
I emailed Toyota asking about the 10-character limitation. Their response is
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----- Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. We appreciate the opportunity to address your inquiry regarding XM radio text display on the 2005 Avalon.
Please be advised that the text display will only show, per section 1-8 of your owner's manual, up to 10 alphanumeric characters. Additionally, some information will not be fully displayed.
We apologize for your dissatisfaction with the limitation of characters. Please note however that there is no update or correction available for this as the vehicle is operating as designed.
So you are aware, we have forwarded your comments to the appropriate departments and would like to thank you for taking the time to email us with your vehicle preferences.
We apologize again for any inconvenience or upset this may have caused.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters under file #200505040826. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----
Sounds like typical corporate-speak saying that's the way it's supposed to be.
I have heard the Avalon described a Japanese buick. Big, cushy, not sporty at all. However, it is lighter and has more hp than an Acura TL. I saw an Acura parked the other day and thought the new styling was very sporty. I am in the market so if someone can tell me about the ride and feel of the car, please let me know. :shades:
Hi frisconic!!! I too had considered both the Avalon and the new Acura TL. I found the ride in the new Avalon to be softer and quieter than in the Acura. The Avalon has more cabin space, trunk space, and rear seat legroom than the Acura. The Avalon also has more horsepower and torque than the Acura. I liked the new Avalon's styling a little better too. I suggest you log on to the forum "05 Avalon vs 05 Acura TL" There are many interesting discussions about both automobiles and this may help you with your decision making... I suggest you drive both cars to form your own opinion. I love the Avalon and am glad I chose it over the Acura. Good luck!!!! gladiator99
About a month ago, someone posted a message on this forum about the USA Today report on the Avalon's hesitation or gear hunting issue. The post was scoffed at and largely ignored. Today, some posters seem obsessed with suggestions of shifting hesitation and other alleged defects. What has changed? The hestitation issue in the Lexus ES330 is what originally moved me to consider the new Avalon. In an Avalon test drive, I experienced no hestitation at all. In fact, throttle response seem especially quick. This car is fast.
Some posters have expressed some interest in the new Hyundau Azera. There's a photo and short article on the Azera on page 42 of the June issue of "Car and Driver" magazine. It looks nice, but I don't think the Azera measures up (literally or otherwise) to the new Avalon.
Has anyone learned when Consumer Reports will publish a review of the Avalon?
My 2005 XLS with 900 miles showing has developed an intermittent, tinny rattle that seems to come from the left rear and appears as the rear passes over rough pavement. Wonder if anyone else has noticed this? Trunk is empty, with the spare and tools tight. The right seatbelt buckle noise mentioned several times was an easy fix as described by others.
Purchased XLS with Stability control, Mudflaps, Avalon carpet mats, JBL 12 speaker sound system for $31,861.19 out the door. Tag was transferred. Wonder how that price stacks up? It seemed almost impossible to find the stability control option without the navigation system so did not quibble a lot with the dealer who has sold us many vehicles.
To any of you experts out there. What is wire throttle linkage that you all are writing about? Is it good or bad? What is the alternative? I do not know what it is.
Anyways, that Phantom Gray Limited was sold already. They are getting a Black Limited in end of this week though.
To be honest, I am tired of chasing this car. I tried the Tampa dealer that was suggested and even got a quote back...and leasing details. Only to discover the car won't be in until June 11th.
I may need to bite the bullet and get something else at this point.
"To any of you experts out there. What is wire throttle linkage that you all are writing about? Is it good or bad? What is the alternative? I do not know what it is."
Barclay3, I'm no expert but Wire Throttle is electronic control of the throttle. There is no longer a cable running from the foot pedal to a lever that tells the car how much gas to apply. The cable was replaced by a wire which is connected to a computer or to a sensor that then tells the car how much gas to apply, probably using a servo motor. Again, I'm not an expert but this is pretty close.
This type of operation was pioneered in aviation where instead of a cable controling the rudder a wire was ran from the cockpit to a sensor and servo that then controlled the rudder.
This new Avalon is just full of different computers and sensors and whatnot that actually control the car. That is the biggest reason I bought the extended warranty.
"Thought you all would like to see the new 05 Avalon engine with the lid off. Notice that the V-6 is rotated so that we see only 1 bank of cylinders. The black manifold at top of picture are variable length intake manifold runners."
Max, are you still using Photobucket? I can't see these pictures. It might be because of my firewall though. Would you mind e-mailing them to me?
Hi Jordan7: Thanks for the reply. It only made me more annoyed at the UBS guy who denied me the opportunity to buy from the Glen Burnie dealer. Oh well. I won't let it spoil the enjoyment I'm getting from my car as I'm sure you are from yours. Regards, Deanie
Dean How soon do you need a car and how much do you want an Avalon? If you need a car right away it may be hard for you to get an Avalon if it is a LIMITED The XLS may not be that tough
I can tell you there are some dealers in South Florida that do have Limiteds in stock but they are charging crazy amounts ( some way above MSRP) and I would never be ripped off in that way
If I HAD to have the Limited and liked it enough to wait and had to turn in a current car and absolutely had to have a specific car with specific options I suppose I would consider renting a car for a few weeks until mine came in or settling on what the dealer has availble in inventory now
Also I belive some folks have bought cars thru brokers and i guess they end up being the ones that "chase" the car not you
HOw long do you keep cars? I keep cars 8-10 years so for me waiting a few weeks to get exactly what I want would make more sense than not
There are plenty of available great cars It depends on what you want and whether price is an object I was impressed with Infiniti but the models I like were priced well above the Avalon
Many people here have chosen the Avalon because we believe that you get a alot of quality for the money
After 2 months, our XLS Blizzard Pearl was finally delivered to us today - just in time for "she who must be obeyed" mothers day and 20th anniversary gift (2 birds with one stone ain't too bad!! - I'm gonna get lucky tonite!!). And she's a beaut - the car I mean. We are totally in awe. Our 1995 XLS is still a winner, but fast forward 10 years later, for essentially the same price, we get a bigger, faster, plusher and quieter Avalon - a near luxury vehicle at $13K less than an almost comparable GS300!!! Life is good!!
We are sold on Toyota's reliability. I finally had to give away my 1984 Toyota truck to my nephew cause it wouldn't break down after 230K miles so I could upgrade to my present 2003 Tundra with all the "manly" stuff on it. Our daughter is driving our problem free, 1995 XLS with 143K miles on it and my son's 1994 SC400, 110K miles, is also in cherry condition - no mechanical issues yet.
Anyway, we were fortunate to purchase our XLS for $1100 above invoice, which I believe is directly related to XLS supply and the best exec sales mgr in Hawaii. After test driving and comparing all four Avalon models over a 6 month period including Maxima, Acura TL, G35, GS300, ES330, RX330 - the XLS offered the most value for the buck for what I wanted for my sweetie. We didn't need the high tech stuff for Hawaii since its parking lot speed on the lowway roads here! Definitely got a lot of looks while cruising this afternoon - we've only seen two 05 Avalon's so far this year.
Top notch JBL system - comparable to Nakamichi's in SC400, she loves the ivory/light wood trim interior, got the carpet mats free, installed the gold emblems today in a half hour (real nice) and have an appointment next Saturday for a window tinting and clear bra installation - both mandatory, in my mind, for here. Exhaust pipes were within 1/8inch; will live with the Turanza's instead of the MXV4's; tire pressure measured at 33psi (rides real smooth!); passenger seat belt adjusted; wood trim/interior fit is excellent; some leather folds (no big deal the thick skinned!); no trans hesitation in low speeds yet; and the interior smells read good - leather fetish exposed! The OEM alloys aren't that bad after all since I was considering an upgrade - maybe later. Pre-purchased Castrol synth oil, K&N air and oil filters for change out at first chance. Color keyed spoiler is sweet and will add color keyed mudguards later. Planning on claying the wife's car tomorrow and giving it a first rate Zaino job.
Anyway, this is a great forum I have been reading for two months now. A lot of good info, a great set of regulars, a savvy Toyota salesguy and a tolerant bunch of mature guys and dolls with a right on the button HOST.
Obviously I don't know your situation, but why don't you just buy a junker for a few months then sell it or give it to your son or something?
I just think once the 06s come out and the Azera is out the whole dynamic for the Avalon market will change. Unless there's something else that's a 50-50 call anyhow I think I'd try to find a way to give myself a chance see what happens--you have to assume they're reproportioning production, fixing little first year nits, etc, and there's lots of chance the market will be more of a buyer's market and the car might be even a slightly better car.
Jordan7 You buy far get the "best shopper" award . I believe yours to be the best deal I have heard about on the Limited Great job............Wishing UBS was available in Florida!!
I have mats question. When I picked up my Limited last week, there were no mats in it. I didn't order any and I thought the car would come with some kind of generic mats. Even sales person told me that, but later when I took the delivery, salesman said he didn't remember saying that. I wonder if I was supposed to get some kind of mats from the dealership?
You wrote: "I tried the Tampa dealer that was suggested and even got a quote back...and leasing details. Only to discover the car won't be in until June 11th."
My car wasn't supposed to be in until May 15, but it arrived on April 29, so I'd regard all dates as approximate. Meanwhile, I couldn't be happier with the XL. It has loads of ergonomic advantages over my '03 Avalon, becomes an instant rocketship when I want to pass someone, is extremely quiet, and rides with extra-smooth solidity. Also, I love the fabric interior and the nice subdued job Toyota did matching the color shades (several different grays). Even the aluminum colored trim (which I expected to dislike) blends in attractively. So if you have to wait till mid-June to get your car, my take is that it's well worth being patient.
Not to take the wind off your sails but I don't think Hyundai and Avalon can be mentioned in the same breath. Granted, Hyundai has come a long way according to JD Power surveys but they still have a long way to go to be in the same company as Toyota and Honda. Just MHPO. :shades: Mackabee
Good explanation of drive by wire Mike. This feature was first introduced by Toyota on the Tundra. If memory serves me right, the only vehicles that had that feature available at that time were the Chevrolet Corvette and the Acura NSX. There is no longer a wire connected from the gas pedal to the throttle, now is all computerized with digital switches, gates, and computers. The benefit is instantenous response, and less moving parts to wear out. Mackee
My beautiful new car seems to be developing a little rust problem somewhere underneath around the tailpipes. I actually have rust stains coming out of the tailpipe and dripping on the floor. Anybody else have this problem? I am taking the car in for its first "fix it" session next week. Hopefully, when they are lining up the exhaust system, they will find what is rusting.
yurik I just took delivery on my XLS I ordered the mats When I looked in the trunk and saw the thin felt like material under the trunk mat I was amazed I had expected the trunk to be carpeted and the mat on top for protectin of the carpet
For a car this expensive I was not terribly impressed So the answer is no they dont come with generic mats but I agree with you they should
Well, that's a pretty bold humble personal opinion since the car hasn't even been released yet!
However, the data such as we have suggests they are in the same category, Preliminary though it may be, it's all we have that's relevant looking forward. But more importantly, they don't really have to be equivalent cars in terms of quality/performance/whatever for the Azera to have an impact on Avalon sales.
There will always be some people who are willing to get 90% of the car for 80% of the price and call that good value, and there will always be some people will adopt precisely the same rationale Avalon owners adopt toward Lexus--why pay more just for the name?
Those bold and self-confident individuals may elect to go for exactly the same value in the Azera as Avalon owners this year do relative to Lexus or BMW.
But don't get me wrong--I think the Avalon is a fabulous value--as far as I'm concerned the Limited is a full-blown luxury car for at least $10K less than true equivalents. To dismiss the possibility of the Azera doing the same w/o even sitting in it is impressive, to me at least, especailly when those who have seen it and sat in it seem pretty impressed.
Anyway, I don't mean to compare cars, I just think for several reasons, the Azera is just one of them, there might be better buying opportunities next year.
hey yunk, my salesguy threw in the carpet floor mats and trunk mat - free, without asking. He also gave us a few other Toyota gifts - cooler bag, stainless key chains and polish/cleaners for exterior and leather interior. Ask your sales rep - for aprx $30 grand, $100 in stuff shouldn't be all that hard to part with .
Wondering whether anyone on this board has purchased an Avalon in the metro-Detroit area yet. If so, from whom, and what sort of deal did you strike?
I haven't seen too many Avalons at my local Toyota dealers yet, so I don't suspect there would be a significant reduction under MSRP. Not a huge issue as I'm not buying until November.
Does anyone have any experience in metro-Detroit Avalon purchases?
I saw the Azera in a car magazine this afternoon. The article said (I forget which magazine) it can't compare to Toyota realibility. Anyway after reading about it here I was curious. I didn't get to see the inside of the car, the only picture was the exterior, and I was surprised and disapointed. I thought it was very bland and that surprised me. But as I always said, Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.
You say you are getting you car built that was ordered on 3-10-05 on 5-23-05. I ordered my limited on 2-19-05 and it is supposed to be built on 5-16-05. I am told it will take 2-11 days to ship
I don't understand Toyotas' way of ordering cars. I really complained when I was told it would be 90 days before the car would arrive. My dealer tells me they do not custom order a car for a customer. The dealer "REQUESTS" a car. Toyota produces the cars it feels will sell.My dealer tells me my Limited with one option was not built and was not available for our 5 state region dealers. None was was available for 2 months and I don't know for how long after that. My dealer told me he had no idea how long it would take to get the car I had ordered. The Limited ordered for was in place, but no one could advise when it might be available. I have a difficult time believing this. Not satisfied, I contacted Toyota Corporate. They basicly told me the same story.
Has any one had a similiar experience?
To end this story; My dealer told me there just happen to be one available to be built on 5-16-05,my Limited, however, it had 2500.00 more options than my initial order.After a few choice words and bargining I decided to go the extra to get the car.
Had I known it would take 3 months for the car I ordered I would not have made this selection. Hopefully getting started on the wrong foot will soon be out of the way and nothing but good luck will follow. Ange1
Glad to hear you like the grey interior. My wife and I have ordered an XL in Blue Mirage Metallic, and opted for the gray instead of the ivory interior due to the availability of cars - ours should be here this week.
According to the brochure the colors seem to go well together, and with different shades of gray that should be even better. Thanks for your info.
Comments
Well, as I have been gathering more input: my choices have sort of "stabilized", meaning they are much less likely to change (unless if some other factor jumps out of nowhere). That being said, for an investment of this magnitude: it's only prudent to carefully analyze the available options. And re-evaluate over time. About a month ago, I was changing my mind every day. Now, I'm pretty much set on the Avalon Limited (but ready to jump to the ES 330 if I find *some* deal-breaker from my #1 choice).
The new ES330 or ES335 whichever engine they decide to put in will be out.
Yes, there will be new models out by that time (except the update for the ES 330 will be coming out after the Fall 2005 time-frame). But, a good example is the Azela from Hyundai. To be frank though, I am doubtful it's mileage will be acceptable and even though Hyundai's reliability figures are improving, I'd rather go with a manufacturer that has maintained high reliability over a period of time.
So, as of that posting: my decision is pretty close to solid. Otherwise, I'll be sure to update folks however, once the fall is here.
That is *exactly* what I want!
THANK you sooooooooo much, rainh2o.
I sent them a detailed request via that web page. If I get this and you live between AZ and FL, I owe you a dinner at the very least!
Fingers crossed big time.
Very anxious to hear back from them.
Thanks so much again...I thought I'd have to settle for some other vehicle.
Regards,
Dean
Dean
Watched the GM video on it. Nice looking. But it's a 1st yr American model. V8 that only has 275HP. More torque, but more gas needed too I'm sure.
Hyundai (sp) is comeing out with a full sized car too.
I can't wait though.
Dean
also, ANY automatic transmission is a compromise. that's the price we pay for not having to work a clutch and shift a lever. coming up to my driveway, my tranny will downshift at 19 mph, causing a momentary blip in the rpm's, i adjust my speed accordingly to compensate for this "issue"...small price to pay for letting the transmission do the work.
lastly, someone reported that the 5 speed in the avalon is NOT adaptive...that may explain why, under certain low speed driving conditions, some owner's are reporting the hesitation problem. jackg 90eville 96k
You are very welcome! I live in Goodyear, Arizona, just west of Avondale. So, at the very least, you can drop by, show off, and let me drool over your new set of wheels! I promise not to get any on the paint or seats! I still don't have a delivery date for my Blizzard Pearl Limited.
For the sake of other users, I would like to point out that my original post was removed and I was chastised for posting a link to the dealer's site ('Sorry, Pat!). So, I will now take the time to refamiliarize myself with the Rules of the Road for which there is a link at the top of the page.
Good luck with your purchase!
Derek
Thank you! Those pictures on ebay are exactly what I was looking for, even if the color wasn't. I was hoping for a little more "candy apple red" than the maroon that it really is. Am sure I'll learn to love it though. Mine is due in in about two weeks.
Bakeroid
An XLS I tested felt the same way, and I assumed it was because of the 17" tires plus the particular brand (whatever that was). I find, though, that the 16" tires on my new XL ride as silky smooth as does my '03 Avalon. Because tires can make such a huge difference in ride quality, you might consider risking the financial switch to another brand. I'd suggest Goodyear Assurance, a new tire which for ride and handling have really upgraded my '03.
Thank you for the help. Interestingly enough, the color on this site is some different from the colors on barclay3's recommendation to go to the touring model being auctioned off on ebay. A lot of variables I guess. Different cameras, different computer screens; and also in digital photography, colors differ with light intensity and source. Guess I'm just going to have to wait for the real thing and see how it looks in the FL sun.
Bakeroid
Max
First picture shows display for a CD which has been burned with CD-text data. Note that it shows disc name and track name, but not artist name. There appears to be no limit on the number of characters in these names.
The second picture shows the display for a typical XM radio station. In this case, it shows song title and artist name, but not album title. The text for this XM data is limited to 10 characters, so you get chopped-off names.
I just can't believe that anyone approved that XM display, chopping the text to 10 characters. Whose bright idea was that? Does anyone know if that is a limitation of the data that XM radio sends out? I would doubt that.
In both displays, there is no need for the large "TEXT" title, I think we already know that. So in each case, they could have displayed the missing info - show the artist name with CD's and the album name with XM. I just get really aggrevated when I see poorly executed designs like this. It would have taken no more effort to do the job right.
I emailed Toyota asking about the 10-character limitation. Their response is
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -----
Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
We appreciate the opportunity to address your inquiry regarding XM radio text display on the 2005 Avalon.
Please be advised that the text display will only show, per section 1-8 of your owner's manual, up to 10 alphanumeric characters. Additionally, some information will not be fully displayed.
We apologize for your dissatisfaction with the limitation of characters. Please note however that there is no update or correction available for this as the vehicle is operating as designed.
So you are aware, we have forwarded your comments to the appropriate departments and would like to thank you for taking the time to email us with your vehicle preferences.
We apologize again for any inconvenience or upset this may have caused.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters under file #200505040826. If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----
Sounds like typical corporate-speak saying that's the way it's supposed to be.
OK, end of rant.
Max
I too had considered both the Avalon and the new Acura TL. I found the ride in the new Avalon to be softer and quieter than in the Acura. The Avalon has more cabin space, trunk space, and rear seat legroom than the Acura. The Avalon also has more horsepower and torque than the Acura. I liked the new Avalon's styling a little better too. I suggest you log on to the forum "05 Avalon vs 05 Acura TL" There are many interesting discussions about both automobiles and this may help you with your decision making... I suggest you drive both cars to form your own opinion. I love the Avalon and am glad I chose it over the Acura.
Good luck!!!!
gladiator99
Some posters have expressed some interest in the new Hyundau Azera. There's a photo and short article on the Azera on page 42 of the June issue of "Car and Driver" magazine. It looks nice, but I don't think the Azera measures up (literally or otherwise) to the new Avalon.
Has anyone learned when Consumer Reports will publish a review of the Avalon?
Impartial
Anyways, that Phantom Gray Limited was sold already. They are getting a Black Limited in end of this week though.
To be honest, I am tired of chasing this car. I tried the Tampa dealer that was suggested and even got a quote back...and leasing details. Only to discover the car won't be in until June 11th.
I may need to bite the bullet and get something else at this point.
Dean
Mackabee
Barclay3, I'm no expert but Wire Throttle is electronic control of the throttle. There is no longer a cable running from the foot pedal to a lever that tells the car how much gas to apply. The cable was replaced by a wire which is connected to a computer or to a sensor that then tells the car how much gas to apply, probably using a servo motor. Again, I'm not an expert but this is pretty close.
This type of operation was pioneered in aviation where instead of a cable controling the rudder a wire was ran from the cockpit to a sensor and servo that then controlled the rudder.
This new Avalon is just full of different computers and sensors and whatnot that actually control the car. That is the biggest reason I bought the extended warranty.
MikeS.
Max, are you still using Photobucket? I can't see these pictures. It might be because of my firewall though. Would you mind e-mailing them to me?
mtpys AT verizon . net
Thanks,
MikeS.
Thanks for the reply. It only made me more annoyed at the UBS guy who denied me the opportunity to buy from the Glen Burnie dealer. Oh well. I won't let it spoil the enjoyment I'm getting from my car as I'm sure you are from yours.
Regards,
Deanie
How soon do you need a car and how much do you want an Avalon?
If you need a car right away it may be hard for you to get an Avalon if it is a LIMITED The XLS may not be that tough
I can tell you there are some dealers in South Florida that do have Limiteds in stock but they are charging crazy amounts ( some way above MSRP) and I would never be ripped off in that way
If I HAD to have the Limited and liked it enough to wait and had to turn in a current car and absolutely had to have a specific car with specific options I suppose I would consider renting a car for a few weeks until mine came in or settling on what the dealer has availble in inventory now
Also I belive some folks have bought cars thru brokers and i guess they end up being the ones that "chase" the car not you
HOw long do you keep cars? I keep cars 8-10 years so for me waiting a few weeks to get exactly what I want would make more sense than not
There are plenty of available great cars It depends on what you want and whether price is an object I was impressed with Infiniti but the models I like were priced well above the Avalon
Many people here have chosen the Avalon because we believe that you get a alot of quality for the money
Good luck whatever you do
We are sold on Toyota's reliability. I finally had to give away my 1984 Toyota truck to my nephew cause it wouldn't break down after 230K miles so I could upgrade to my present 2003 Tundra with all the "manly" stuff on it. Our daughter is driving our problem free, 1995 XLS with 143K miles on it and my son's 1994 SC400, 110K miles, is also in cherry condition - no mechanical issues yet.
Anyway, we were fortunate to purchase our XLS for $1100 above invoice, which I believe is directly related to XLS supply and the best exec sales mgr in Hawaii. After test driving and comparing all four Avalon models over a 6 month period including Maxima, Acura TL, G35, GS300, ES330, RX330 - the XLS offered the most value for the buck for what I wanted for my sweetie. We didn't need the high tech stuff for Hawaii since its parking lot speed on the lowway roads here! Definitely got a lot of looks while cruising this afternoon - we've only seen two 05 Avalon's so far this year.
Top notch JBL system - comparable to Nakamichi's in SC400, she loves the ivory/light wood trim interior, got the carpet mats free, installed the gold emblems today in a half hour (real nice) and have an appointment next Saturday for a window tinting and clear bra installation - both mandatory, in my mind, for here. Exhaust pipes were within 1/8inch; will live with the Turanza's instead of the MXV4's; tire pressure measured at 33psi (rides real smooth!); passenger seat belt adjusted; wood trim/interior fit is excellent; some leather folds (no big deal the thick skinned!); no trans hesitation in low speeds yet; and the interior smells read good - leather fetish exposed! The OEM alloys aren't that bad after all since I was considering an upgrade - maybe later. Pre-purchased Castrol synth oil, K&N air and oil filters for change out at first chance. Color keyed spoiler is sweet and will add color keyed mudguards later. Planning on claying the wife's car tomorrow and giving it a first rate Zaino job.
Anyway, this is a great forum I have been reading for two months now. A lot of good info, a great set of regulars, a savvy Toyota salesguy and a tolerant bunch of mature guys and dolls with a right on the button HOST.
Highly satisfied with our Avalon.
Canefire
Obviously I don't know your situation, but why don't you just buy a junker for a few months then sell it or give it to your son or something?
I just think once the 06s come out and the Azera is out the whole dynamic for the Avalon market will change. Unless there's something else that's a 50-50 call anyhow I think I'd try to find a way to give myself a chance see what happens--you have to assume they're reproportioning production, fixing little first year nits, etc, and there's lots of chance the market will be more of a buyer's market and the car might be even a slightly better car.
Blizzard Pearl Limited/graphite interior/nav/laser/xm/etc.
Goodyear, AZ
You buy far get the "best shopper" award . I believe yours to be the best deal I have heard about on the Limited Great job............Wishing UBS was available in Florida!!
I wonder if I was supposed to get some kind of mats from the dealership?
My car wasn't supposed to be in until May 15, but it arrived on April 29, so I'd regard all dates as approximate. Meanwhile, I couldn't be happier with the XL. It has loads of ergonomic advantages over my '03 Avalon, becomes an instant rocketship when I want to pass someone, is extremely quiet, and rides with extra-smooth solidity. Also, I love the fabric interior and the nice subdued job Toyota did matching the color shades (several different grays). Even the aluminum colored trim (which I expected to dislike) blends in attractively. So if you have to wait till mid-June to get your car, my take is that it's well worth being patient.
:shades:
Mackabee
Mackee
My beautiful new car seems to be developing a little rust problem somewhere underneath around the tailpipes. I actually have rust stains coming out of the tailpipe and dripping on the floor. Anybody else have this problem? I am taking the car in for its first "fix it" session next week. Hopefully, when they are lining up the exhaust system, they will find what is rusting.
I just took delivery on my XLS
I ordered the mats When I looked in the trunk and saw the thin felt like material under the trunk mat I was amazed I had expected the trunk to be carpeted and the mat on top for protectin of the carpet
For a car this expensive I was not terribly impressed
So the answer is no they dont come with generic mats but I agree with you they should
Good luck with the new car
However, the data such as we have suggests they are in the same category, Preliminary though it may be, it's all we have that's relevant looking forward. But more importantly, they don't really have to be equivalent cars in terms of quality/performance/whatever for the Azera to have an impact on Avalon sales.
There will always be some people who are willing to get 90% of the car for 80% of the price and call that good value, and there will always be some people will adopt precisely the same rationale Avalon owners adopt toward Lexus--why pay more just for the name?
Those bold and self-confident individuals may elect to go for exactly the same value in the Azera as Avalon owners this year do relative to Lexus or BMW.
But don't get me wrong--I think the Avalon is a fabulous value--as far as I'm concerned the Limited is a full-blown luxury car for at least $10K less than true equivalents. To dismiss the possibility of the Azera doing the same w/o even sitting in it is impressive, to me at least, especailly when those who have seen it and sat in it seem pretty impressed.
Anyway, I don't mean to compare cars, I just think for several reasons, the Azera is just one of them, there might be better buying opportunities next year.
my salesguy threw in the carpet floor mats and trunk mat - free, without asking. He also gave us a few other Toyota gifts - cooler bag, stainless key chains and polish/cleaners for exterior and leather interior. Ask your sales rep - for aprx $30 grand, $100 in stuff shouldn't be all that hard to part with
I haven't seen too many Avalons at my local Toyota dealers yet, so I don't suspect there would be a significant reduction under MSRP. Not a huge issue as I'm not buying until November.
Does anyone have any experience in metro-Detroit Avalon purchases?
I don't understand Toyotas' way of ordering cars. I really complained when I was told it would be 90 days before the car would arrive. My dealer tells me they do not custom order a car for a customer. The dealer "REQUESTS" a car. Toyota produces the cars it feels will sell.My dealer tells me my Limited with one option was not built and was not available for our 5 state region dealers. None was was available for 2 months and I don't know for how long after that. My dealer told me he had no idea how long it would take to get the car I had ordered. The Limited ordered for was in place, but no one could advise when it might be available. I have a difficult time believing this. Not satisfied, I contacted Toyota Corporate. They basicly told me the same story.
Has any one had a similiar experience?
To end this story; My dealer told me there just happen to be one available to be built on 5-16-05,my Limited, however, it had 2500.00 more options than my initial order.After a few choice words and bargining I decided to go the extra to get the car.
Had I known it would take 3 months for the car I ordered I would not have made this selection. Hopefully getting started on the wrong foot will soon be out of the way and nothing but good luck will follow. Ange1
Glad to hear you like the grey interior. My wife and I have ordered an XL in Blue Mirage Metallic, and opted for the gray instead of the ivory interior due to the availability of cars - ours should be here this week.
According to the brochure the colors seem to go well together, and with different shades of gray that should be even better. Thanks for your info.
So how do you like your XL?
- Paul
That about sums up my experience with Toyotas. I hope our Avalon continues the tradition.
- P.