2005-2007 Toyota Avalon

lildevil23

I have an aging camry 1992 SE and since its packing close to 170K, I am looking for a replacement. Out of all the Toyotas, only the Avalon (06 Model) caught my eye - I am only 27 though and would not have gone for the previous avalon models due to its very boxy and unappeling look.

Now does anybody feel that the touring model will come with a manual tranny?

mcardle

Good luck with your HL. I've had mine - Limited, AWD - since Feb. 02 and love it. Just under 20 mpg overall since day 1, great ride and I have nothing but (admittedly) nit-picky complaints.

We're in Wisconsin, but live in the burbs, so 2 all wheel drive SUV's are not necessary. My wife wanted, and got, a Pilot last year, so my HL will be going back to the dealer at the end of its lease in August. I'll miss it, but am leaning towards replacing it with an Avalon, which I'm sure will also be more than satisfactory.

buckwheat

This is a new approach, for the Avalon. The new design has a reusable oil filter case integrated into the oil pan to accept a replaceable oil filter element, this eliminates the steel case housing in the oil waste recycling. It permits a technician to connect a hose to drain the filter before removal, which makes the process cleaner and improves recyclability of the filter element.

Source: "Avalon introduction" page #9 letter F

This method is not new, cartridge filters have been around for many years in foreign vehicles.

fin

When oil filters first came on American cars...guess what...they had a permanent case with a filter inside!!! Back to the future.... But there was no way to drain the oil out of the filter prior to removing it. What a mess.
Not a DIY person here...but...how does the DIY guy change the oil now in the 2005? Somebody might want to post about this as the mileage accumulates and an oil change is necessary.

vette '67

My '67 Corvette has a cartridge filter, as do all (most?) cars of that era. When I used to change my own oil, I could count on lots of spills. My mechanic fusses with it now.

ange

Right now if you want an Avalon the dealers are in the driverseat. They tell me they sell the cars within 48 hours and they refuse to bargin. My answer to several dealers was " thank you good by". I found a dealer that gave me 2850 off mslp with one option, vsc and traction control.

barclay3

Are you in Pennsylvania??

bakeroid

After reading many different opinions on whether or not there is hesitation when you stomp on it, one question comes to mind. Could it have anything to do with whether or not you are using the recommended mid-grade fuel, or the cheap stuff? Just wondering.

mackabee

Drove the Touring today and still can get the smile off my face! I actually spinned the front wheels on this one as opposed to the XLS that I drove last week. Power also felt stronger than the XLS when I floored the accelarator although if you go back to my post on the drive of the XLS you'll remember I said "who needs a V8!!?? Suspension is definitely firmer on this trim level and you can feel more of the road. It's no MR2 in the handling department but definitely would give the competition a fight. I hope Toyota offers VSC and Trac later in the model year. I would probably go for this model if I were looking at the Avalon. That's not to say I would not go for the XLS or Limited but I prefer a firmer ride. A few of you here have had a chance to view the DVD on the Avalon that I gave you and they show what the engineers did to the interior panels and dash. There are no gaps or seams whatsoever. The dash looks like it was carved out of one piece of granite and the rest of the car's fit and finish is also impeccable.
: )
Mackabee

mackabee

I did drive the car in the "manual mode" and that was a blast! It should satisfy drivers looking for a manual transmission.
: )
Mackabee

cove148

We have at least 5 Toyota dealers in town and I have yet to see more than 2 cars on any dealers lot. Tons of advertisement on TV, but no cars on the lot. Local Lexus dealer had 5 of the 2006 GS, which just arrived at the dealer last week. I thought with the projected sales volume and the car being built in Kentucky that there would be a bunch of cars to choose from by now.

wuzfuz

Guys and gals,
Has anyone else noticed the lack of any form of protective side molding on the '05 Avalon? It would appear the new Avalon has no protection from parking lot dings and dents. Is there an after-market product available that would offer door and fender protection and have the appearance of original equipment, not an after thought?

vinster29

I think the new Avalon Limited has more features than the Acura RL but I was wondering what everyone's opinions is on the differences between these two cars. Which would you buy and why?

fd1000

If the Acura RL was only 1-2k more expensive, I would buy a loaded RL. But an RL is basically in the 44k range, as opposed to 36-37k range for the Avalon. Plus, the Avalon offers laser cruise control, which I do not think the RL offers.

So, based on the Avalon being cheaper, and offering a few features that the RL does not, I would choose the Avalon.

However, in my personal opinion, I think the RL has a nicer interior, and of course offers AWD and 20 more ponies.

Exterior styling on both is a tie. However, the RL has nicer looking wheels. Why Toyota went with those very boring looking wheels on the Limited, I dont know.

fd1000

RANT: Excuse me while I express my disappointment in the new Toyota Avalon commercial on TV.

Just recently, I have really started seeing the new Toyota Avalon commercial. There are basically two of them I have seen, but one is shown much more then the other. That's the one I can't stand.

What if I told you that there is a new car, with 280HP, Leather Seats, Navigation, ABS, Stability Control, Manumatic Sport Shifter, and hits 60 MPH in just 6.5 sec? Do you think of little fluffy bunny rabbits and lollipop songs? Or do you think of a serious sport car, with some guts?

Cadillac plays a rocking' Led Zeppelin song to sell a 255HP Cadillac CTS. The Avalon sports 280HP. You'd never know it from Toyota's goody two-shoes commercial.

Toyota shows a very bland (sorry for those who own this color) gold Avalon, driving down the street at like 15 MPH. A happy women starts singing her lollipop song. Along the street, women's shoes start dancing. A paper mache bunny rabbit starts hippity hopping down the sidewalk.

COME ON! Sell me a sports sedan, not a ticket to an earth day convention!

Hard for me to get pumped on this bad motor scooter, with a commercial like that.

If Toyota thinks that's the best ad they come up with, just give me the millions they gave to the ad agency. For 50 bucks I could make a better commercial. Just one picture of a Avalon, put the stats up there 1 by 1, with some great music behind it. Finish off with the price. Change up the music once a week. Done.

Thank you so much for reading my rant, I feel so much better now!!!

vinster29

I agree with you fd1000 the Avalon is a better deal for the money, but I went ahead and compared the Avalon and RL anyway and this is what I found:

The RL does have more horsepower but it also weighs more so I feel that the Avalon has the advantage, plus the Avalon goes from 0-60 in 6.6 seconds compared to the RL's 7.6 seconds.

The Avalon is longer than the RL, has more trunk space than the RL, and more room for the rear passengers. The RL does have the nicer looking wheels but, the Avalon does have the 18" Enkei wheels as an option even though I haven't seen them up close and personal yet. But like you said the Avalon has the laser guided cruise control, along with the Smart key System, the rain sensing wipers and heated and ventilated seats. Try finding those options on an RL.

So overall I feel that the new Avalon is a better deal for the money!!

1violinist

And dealers charge customers "advertisement fee" to pay for these ads!!! In your case I guess they should pay you "advertisement compensation" for putting up with them! :-)

pmcb48

Given that the only difference between the Touring and the XLS between the engine and the tires is the firmer suspension in the Touring, I wonder why you felt the Touring felt stronger. Could it be you felt more comfortable "pushing the envelope" on your 2nd Avalon test drive? It sounds like the ride in the Touring is similar to that in my Maxima SE, also with a firmer suspension. For myself, I'm ready to have a less "up close and personal" relationship with every bump in the road. :-)

pmcb48

The Avalon ads are cutesy and disappointing. For anyone who has seen the University of Toyota introductory DVD on the Avalon, it is far more informative and superior in approach and tone. They should let those people do the commercials. The Avalon isn't a sports sedan, even in the Touring version. That description better applies to cars like the BMW 3-series and 5-series, and they can have it.

mickeyb1

Last Saturday we traded our 2003 XLS in for a 2005 Avalon LTD. We loved our 2003, and when we saw the ads on TV for the new ones, we thought we'd take a peek at a local dealership. Oh my, we were so impressed that we took a test drive and then we took it home. We received Kelly Blue Book for our 2003 of just a shade under $20,000. We bought the 2005 for $1,000 under MSRP. It's a silver color with gray leather. We live in Madison, WI, and bought the car at Smart Motors.

I'm 57 years old and have conservative tastes as a rule. We literally searched for months before we found the Avalon two years ago--we had never even heard of it before we saw it at the car dealer. As soon as we test drove it, we both agreed that this was the car for us. We were looking for a navigation system (we like to travel), heated seats (we live in WI), roomy (got grandkids), memory seat/mirror preferences for two (that narrowed it down), dual climate control. That's why we bought the first one. We bought the second one because it seemed "funner". However, the jury is still out on some of the new "features". This deal about not using a key to lock/unlock/start your car is just plain weird. I don't know if I'll ever get used to it. I tried the laser cruise control today. I'm not quite used to it yet, but from what I can tell, it will be less traumatic for me when my husband drives, as he doesn't turn off the cruise until he's on the other guy's tail and it gives me fits.
I wasn't a fan of the HID headlights until I drove with them the first time. They are nice for the driver, but I don't like staring into them from the other side. The voice recognition for the NAV/Audio either doesn't work very well or we just don't have the hang of it yet. We say "Home" and it confirms that golf course POIs will display on the map--go figure. It cracks us up because 50% of the time, she gets it wrong. It's easier to just push the buttons anyway. The dash/instrument panel is absolutely awesome at night. It has the best sound system I've ever heard in a car. I thought I read that the inside capacity was about the same, but it seems much roomier. It's more powerful, quieter, and more buttons to push. We love it.--mickey

just__me

http://www.internetautoguide.com/reviews/45-int/fullsize-cars/toy- ota/avalon/2005/

mackabee

Congratulations! It's great that we now have a female point of view on the new Avalon. Don't you think the guys here "nit pick" excessively about this car? I guess your husband probably programmed the golf course as "Home" ; ) I take it he probably golfs alot? Enjoy.
: )
Mackabee

mackabee

Could be. One of our lot porters was taking the vehicle to prep to have it washed and then put in the showroom when I intercepted the pass. I asked if he wanted to go for a quick ride so I guess I did feel a little more frisky with the Touring than the XLS.
: )
Mackabee

psy

Ive been looking at the new avalon and it is a very nice car! There are so many cars in the 26k to 34k range to choose from and none of them are bad choices, well except any thing with a america co. name badge on it. It seems such a broad range of cars from the accord to the g35 over to a acura tl and then theres the monster sedan avalon. I fear the only thing that could turn me off a avalon is the dealers here in Tulsa. They seem to really package the cars up and charge insane prices for the cars and have a real snob tude. Im in sales and I would never treat cust. like these folks do. That seems to be the rule for most dealers in Tulsa, but the toyota dealers appear to be the worst at it. I look forward to test driving one here in a month or so when they become more avalible in this area. Ive enjoyed reading on this fourm and look forward to more info on the avalon as folks buy them.

psy

mickeyb1

I wanted to mention something about the changes in the seats from the 2003 Avalon. The front driver's seat seems to have the same movement control as before with the addition of rolling out the seat bottom to accomodate longer legged folks, but the front passenger's seat no longer moves up/down--my tall husband has to tilt the seat back in order to clear the roof.
The heated seats warm the back as well as the butt, and it seemed to warm up faster than the 2003. When turned on, we could actually feel the ventilated air come through the holes in the leather--I'm looking forward to cool leather seats this summer. Also the heat/ventilation are on variable dials so you can control the temp for driver and passenger. The back seats do recline a bit, but this is a ho-hum feature for us. There is a lot of room back there though, and it looks like you can fit two car seats on either side of the armrest with room to spare (grandkids). The armrest padding can be lifted to expose a nice size tray for the kids' stuff and pressing the plastic wood opens up to expose two nice-sized drink holders (as if). All in all, the seating is exceptional as it is warm, cool, comfortable, and gorgeous.--mickey

cove148

Mackabee,

How many 2005 are on the lot at your location?
Seems to be very few cars available for all the expensive TV advertisement.

autoguy1

I was watching the one with the annoying song and pointed out to my wife while my teen (uh oh) son was in the room. He said some vulgar about the commercial itself. Basically something bad.

They need to boost up their commercials. I actually liked their Sienna ones. Fits quite perfectly.

vette '67

We, too, have found the TV ads to be inane. Were they written by Dr. Zuess' ghost and for a kindergarten audience? It is certain that Toyota is going for a younger demographic with the Avalon, but preschoolers? The introduction and early ads for the Avalon have been a total screw-up. Are you listening, Toyota?

mackabee

Right this minute we have two Titanium silver Touring in stock. We have about 20 in allocation due to arrive between today and throughout the month of March. A good mix of all four trim levels. All the Limiteds are pre-sold and some of the XLS also. We're getting an XL today or tomorrow which I'm anxiously awaiting to see the fabric they used on it. Some folks have made a comment that it's "cheezy" I'll hold judgement until I see one.

Funny thing about the commercials; they have folks talking about the car and coming in to see it. Must be working!
; )
Mackabee

thomcin

I leased my new 2004 BMW 325 Convertible (in May 2003), list price $47,200 with -0- down, for 36 months, with 15,000 miles a year (total of 45,000)for 615.10 a month! This price includes all taxes and drive away price. It also includes 4 year 50,000 free maintance by BMW. Only item not covered was tires. $1251 more out of pocket, and $75 more a month for a car that list for $10,000 less is certainly no bargain! I would get a quote from another dealer.

thomcin

2005 Acura RL list price is $49,000+ (not $44,000). All 2005 RL's come fully equipped, with no factory options.

alpha01

Mack/pmcb-

Do you think that the Touring felt strong off the line than the XLS tested because the XLS likely had VSC/TRAC, which would retard throttle application at the first HINT of wheelspin? Just a thought.

Mack, as always, hope you are doing well, we all wish you a very speedy recovery.

~alpha

mcardle

Or, the car is so good it's able to overcome the commercials and succeed anyway. :0

perico1

Just got a call from my man Kevin at the dealership. It appears that the Limited has pretty much sold out for the next 60 days. They are not taking any orders this week and he said new orders will be MSRP until further notice. I guess I was lucky for once, because my car was locked in last week. Did anybody out there buy an extended warranty? I hold on to my cars for a long, long time. Thanks

sbell4

Southeast Toyota is a private distributor and is a middle man for the dealerships in NC,SC,GA,AL and FL. The dealer is the one that equips the vehicle and SET has nothing to do with "front-loading" the vehicles with added equipment. SET sells over 23% of all the Toyota sales in the nation so the myth about not having inventory is false. SET has its own finance, warranty and extended contract service not only for Toyota but is used by other manufacturers as well.

just__me

Mac, I saw the seats in the XL, the cloth is nicer than the 04 and earlier models in my opinion, They seem to be better and IMHO definitely not cheesy, I'm interested in hearing your comments when you see them. I have the leather in my XLS. Hope your feelingstronger every day.

just__me

I'm driving the new 2005 XLS Avalon, and like my 04 the seats do go up and down. Just push down with your finger on the left side near the door on the one that moves the seat forward and back, press down on it in the center and it will lower and put your finger under it in the center and push up and the seat will rise. Hope you do it and realize your husband can now adjust it to his frame. Have a good one.

wesg

My exact thoughts! Is this the car I'm waiting to buy? Come on...this car is designed for the 60++ demographics, plus the touring to catch the sporty crowd. Toyota's advertising is pretty bland...just my thoughts...

just__me

I to was looking forward to a commercial showing the car racing through Americas highways showing off it's power. So I was surprised until my son told me they are trying to attract yonger families and whenever kids see something like thgis they tell their parents they want one. I'm sure they did a lot of testing with this and from what I hear from my dealer they are selling the car. They are even sold before they come in. I guess those of us wanted to see the commercials showing high tech power etc. My dealer told me they are getting more young folks looking at the Avalon, so I guess it's working. I also wanted a more luxurious brochure, but I don't drive the brochure and bought the car anyway. PSY, the dealers here in SC and GA, the ones I have visited are all very nice. Their service departments aim to please and I've never been disappointed. I always thought Toyota insisted on this so am surprised about Tulsa Toyota dealers. I guess thats Texas for you or perhaps maybe your just expecting to much, only you can determine that. The Ford 500 and Chrysler 300 and Buick Lacrosse are nicer cars then the older American cars, so Detroit I believe will make a comeback. If you check out Consumer guide, you will see the 05 Avalon overall scores higher then the three I just mentioned in this class, so the earlier link in motor trend that compared an 04 against the American 05's was silly.

pmcb48

Alpha01--as always, you make an excellent and credible point re VSC/TRAC being present in XLS and not in the Touring. Could that be Toyota's logic in leaving them off the Touring, targeted at a more "sporty" group? Would otherwise lessen the fun for "wheel spinners" like Mackabee? :-) . Macho over safety? Not a tough choice for plodders like me. :-) I'm glad I got my Limited in the pipeline when I did.

pmcb48

I have a Toyota Extended Care 7yr/100K miles/$0 deductible warranty quote for a Limited from a dealer in Massachusetts at $985. You basically just send them copy of your bill of sale or registration with legible VIN and a signed letter as to current mileage, plus payment. That's the best price I've found so far. I can send you specifics if you temporarily unblock your e-mail address.

mackabee

alpha01, you are correct! I did not think of that. That's probably why I didn't get much wheelspin if any on the XLS. Not only that but I didn't want Mr & Mrs. PcMb48 to think I'm a speed demon! ; )
Mackabee

prime time

I see the question about side body moldings to protect from dings being raised from time to time. Any recommendations here?

p.s. did you get my email?

mexcar

Thanks for the great discussion. It's about convinced me that the XL will be my choice provided the verdict on the darker gray fabric is positive. Does anyone know about the following:
- Is the radio upgrade that's not now available on the XL a gotta have item if you want to take advantage of the car's reputed quiet, but aren't too much of an audiofile?
- Is there any reason why you couldn't or shouldn't order a leather steering wheel and shift knob and just ask your dealer's body shop to install it?

clipper1

Wonder if I made a mistake. Ordered a spoiler for my Limited. Is it the same as the Touring? Or is it a port add on? (Southeast)

sbell4

Yes, it is the same as the Touring and yes, it is a Southeast port add on.

mackabee

prime time, got your e-mail. Thank you. The body side moldings shouldn't be that much of an issue in my opinion. However, if you guys decide to put them on your car make sure you get a professional outfit to do it. I have seen diy's (do it yourself) jobs on other cars and they are awful!
: )
Mackabee

pmcb48

Just Me made a good comment earlier in this string that he's had many cars with side moldings and still got nicks over/under/around them; it depends on what hits you and where (e.g., shopping carts). It's just karma as to whether whatever hits you lines up with the side molding. Since this question came up, I've temporarily been noticing side moldings on cars, and many are very rudimentary, barely worth the name. Conversely the 2004 Sienna and Avalon both had good side moldings, so I can only figure that style won out over function for the 2005 Avalon. I don't plan on adding aftermarket moldings. Even with my 1995 current car, I still feel the best defense is where you park; end of a row when possible, always with some separation. But NEVER diagonally across two spaces--that's begging some parking lot vigilante to run his key down the side of your car.

fd1000

thomcin, those are some really great lease numbers.

I guess my point with the lease numbers that I posted was, those should be the highest numbers you could see.

You SHOULD be able to get lease payments lower then that. More like expect.

However, I am stunned that you got your 47k BMW for $615 a month. I'm thinking that there had to be some incentives in there, and I am guessing that you have golden credit. Anyway you cut it, good job on those payments!

clipper1

Thanks: sbell

Dealer thru the spoiler in on the deal -- told me it was different -- didn't think he was correct.