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I am awaiting the release of the 07 avalons, are they pretty much available when first released or do you have to wait till the fall before they are out on the lots? Also, how do find out what the dealer invoice price is? Thanks!
I test drove a very loaded Limited yesterday and absolutely loved the car............except the NAV was horrendous, especially when compared with my wife's Honda Odyssey. The dealer (a friend of mine) said production on the 07's will begin in August, and on his lot in September.
I went to the "ricetoyota.com" site, but could not find the dealer invoice price lists. Where can it be found?
Have you (or anyone) bought through Rice Toyota recently? I live in Charlotte and don't like the run-around that I'm getting from some of the local dealers. I don't mind traveling up to Greensboro or working with another out-of-town dealer to get a good deal. We don't buy cars often, as we prefer to keep our cars for 7-12 years, so I've never tried to buy via internet. Could someone comment about the relative ease/difficulty with getting competitive prices via some of the Toyota dealers in the S.E.
We're looking at the Avalon for my wife and thinking that we should wait for the '07 after hearing that they may have Bluetooth, MP3, tire-pressure monitor and 6-speed. We would like to buy within the next 2-3 months.
You can submit a request for a bid on the new car of your choice via Edmunds or several other websites. You have to give your zip code, name, address etc. It's really very easy and then you don't have to buy it if you don't want to. One can negotiate after a dealer has sent a response via e.mail or the telephone.
I, too, have been anxiously awaiting the 07 announcement. Last year, some people had 06 Avalons in August, so some info should be available shortly. I guess Toyota doesn't want to announce too early as it may hurt the sale of the existing 06 Avalons that are still on the lots.
I'm hoping that the 07 comes through with most the things that you mention, especially the 6-speed. I'm thinking that the infamous hesitation problem with the 5-speed is fixed with the 6-speed, but no guarantee.
I ordered an 2007 Limited last weekend. I specifically asked for a 2007 model year. Kings Toyota told me that is all that is being produced now, and it is supposed to come in by August 12th. Unfortunately, no one knows for sure what specific changes are coming. All I have been able to confirm specifically is a Tire Pressure Warning system will be added. I am hoping for the 6 speed trans, MP3 input, power telescoping steering wheel. Anyone out there know what the changes will be? Thanks.
Sorry, I don't know of the changes but I am interested in the particulars of ordering your limited. Did you use the internet sales dept. or floor salesperson? Did you go to different dealership? Any info would be helpful to me as I will be ordering my 07 avalon soon. I am glad to hear about the Tire pressure warning system. I am hoping for blue tooth and the MP3 output. thanks and have a great day!
I ordered a white Limited with VSC with brake assist and Remote Starter directly with the floor salesman. Most dealerships would much rather sell you a car from their lot or get one from another dealership. However, most won't have any issue ordering your specific vehicle from the factory if you insist on it, and I have done it before. IMO, it is the only way to assure your car will be totally new with nearly 0 miles. I also fear the idea that anyone else has potentially test driven a car before me. Lets face it, most people evaluating a new car will perform heavy acceleration to test performance. I know that I do even though that is no way to treat a brand new engine. I have told them that there had better be less than 10 miles on the Odemeter when I arrive. The last Toyota I ordered had only 9. The down side is the wait. Even though the Georgetown plant is probably only 200 miles away, the wait is typically 3 to 4 weeks. Hope this helps.
I've read the 2007 Avalon Model Changes paper from Toyota, the only new things are a slightly modified remote unit (Smart Key) and the tire pressure warning system.
I've heard that it's a whole lot more changed than that, like i said before...I think that the 07 Avalon is coming back strong, with features that we would only see in upper class cars.
Sassykat, I like many others on this site are anxiously waiting on hearing about the changes. When someone comes out and says "I've heard" yet can not back that up with what they did actually hear, that should tell you something. I can tell you that 2 weeks ago I called several dealerships in Houston, Texas and told them that I wanted to special order a Avalon. After a couple of days of different dealerships trying to pawn off vehicles close to what I wanted but not exactely, I finally found one manager that admitted they were not special ordering 2006 models because the 2007's were slated to come out soon. I do know this. I was asking for a car without the 6 disc changer and all of the Avalons being made, including the XL were being outfitted with that option. Seems they were trying to rid all of the 6 disc changers for some reason. Anyway, the manager that was finally upfront with me told me to call her back in 3 weeks and she may have some info on the 2007's. So, I guess I don't have much to pass on to help us, however unlike lots of folks, I will admit to that and not try to act like I know something that I really don't.
Thanks for your honesty. I was checking out the Tundra Solutions forums earlier and they have a post stating all of the new features for the 07 avalon.... however you have to be a paying member to view the information. A one month membership is $15.00. As much as I am wanting the info I can not justify the $$$ when the info will probably be available soon for nothing. I am very curious though....
I am a member of Tundra Solutions, I think it's about $25 a year for membership, and that is where I saw the official Toyota release stating there are only two changes, the re-designed Smart Key remote and the addition of the tire pressure monitoring system. These posts have been 100% accurate in the past.
Interesting that Toyota apparently has not moved the Avalon to the 6-speed tranny used in the new Camry. Regardless of whether the 6-speed is really an improvement or not, from a marketing standpoint more gears are "better," and you'd think they wouldn't want the lesser car to continue to have a newer and "better" transmission than the premium car.
Thanks for all the replies. I guess we will see very soon. I would not pay the price to get a early look since I am not convinced that what they would tell us is the real deal anyway. This website should have the information that we look for as soon as it comes out. The big item my wife is wanting is the bluetooth. If the Avalon has it I will order one the first day possible, if not I may end up looking into a Camry. I read on another wesite that they did not think the Avalon would have this feature since it is generally marketed for the 50 and over's, and they are not that interested in bluetooth. Well, I am not quite in that category yet for one, and two, I can't say that I see many of the "younger groups" driving the likes of Lexus, BMW or Benz's which all have this technology. Anyway, still waiting here. Thanks
I also have a hard time believing that they wouldn't utilize the 6 speed trans. Both the Camry and the Avalon are produced in the same plant in Kentucky. Why complicate production and add cost by having both transmissions. Also, this 6 speed is used on the same engine for Lexus as well. Toyota likes to standardize to save costs.
I talked to a dealer about a weeek ago in Monsey, NY and was told they have a 2007 Avalon coming in,in about three weeks. I will check it out the day it comes in.
I have a 2007 Limited being shipped 8/7/06. I ordered the Limited and it is the first 2007 coming into my dealer. The only changes my paper work shows is the Direct Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The Smart Key is supposed to be improved but I don't know how. It is a 5 speed and does not have bluetooth or mp3.
That's disappointing. I think the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is required so it looks like they haven't made many improvements. I was hoping for an upgraded nav system because I've heard so many complaints from owners of previous models. Maybe it would be better to buy one without nav and buy a portable. I hear they are very good.
find this hard to beleive as well and would suggest to you that you wait until Toyota actually announces the 07 with whatever changes they make - otherwise you might be getting an 06 with a 07 VIN number.
I know what you mean re. the 06 with the 07 vin, but I need a car now so I couldn't wait any longer. It is coming off the production line so I would think it is an 07. They are great cars and I was going to buy one anyhow so the 07 will be a bonus if it truly is one.
I will also be very disappointed if Toyota doesn't upgrade the Avalon with features found on there lower priced cars. I have an 07 that is supposed to arive between August 7th and 15th. I specifically stated that it must be an 2007 when I ordered it 2 weeks ago. I have never heard of this releasing a 2007 Vin number when the car itself will be further upgraded within the same model year. I will be totally pissed off if Avalons get additional features later this year when I am specifically waiting for an 2007 hoping for 6 speed trans, MP3, etc. Does Toyota have a history of doing feature upgrades within the same model year?
no, I don't think so, although Toyota does have a history of 4-5 year product cycles. All manufacturer will tell you 'specifications subject to change without notice', however, and can (and will) classify a given production date to a given model year designation. Have an early 03 Altima that has 02 model year brakes - meaning that what I really have is an 02 with a 03 VIN. If the '07 model is as noted, meaning essentially the same as the 05/06 and doesn't have the logical 'upgrades' (the 6 spd, bluetooth/mp3, a reworked NAV etc.) then the truth of the matter is that Toyota doesn't have it ready yet or had no intention of doing it in the first place - which is why I say wait for the offical release of the specs. if these upgrades are important to you. For those that feel that 6 speeds must be better than 5, and/or have to have the other techno gizmos - sure would push some sales to a full boat Camry, would'nt it?
I checked out the 2007 ES 350 and you can get a fairly well equiped model for around $38000. I know that's not cheap but when you consider it comes with nav/with back-up camera-bluetooth-steering wheel memory system-auto dimming outside mirrors w/tilt-down in reverse plus all the other options the Avalon Limited has,it might be worth the extra bucks.
Check out this info on the Lexus ES 350. I think some prospective Avalon buyers might find it hard to resist this car. The only down side I see is size.
...you also missed side folding mirrors(manual/powered), i-pod jack, plasmacluster(standard in Camry xle) and many standard features offered in Hyundai Azera. Btw, shouldn't stability/trac control be standard already??! :confuse:
Also, have anybody know if toyota fixed the problematic 5-speed transmission yet? Canadian had a recall on Avalon.
jrjhm: FOR SURE--DO NOT buy the current Nav System--it is a JOKE--and not a funny one for $2,000!! I'm SORRY I got it--I assumed it was like the Lexus--my VERY BAD---also, the Remote Start----buy after market---it is also very quirky--works great sometimes and then the next itme ya have to be right next to the car--again--a $450 mistake!! Love the Avy Lmited---but--they need to bring the Nav Sys and Remote Start into the 21st Century. Laser Cruise is nice--but--with the roads so full of cars and the folks cutting I--I just leave mine on "Normal" cruise most of the time. Laser Cruise costs $600----so, I could have saved $2k--Nav--$450 Remote Start & $600 Laser Cruise!! DO GET--the body side moldings, about $150--they WORK!! Hope this helps!! Bob
Just priced the ES350 on Lexus' website. With most, but not all the features on a loaded Avalon Limited, it prices about $3000 more than an Avy for a smaller car.
larrymit--yea, but ya get a big "L" on the front & back!! L of a deal for $3K more! Unless the ES350 is a "significant" improvement over the ES330--the Avy rides better, is as quiet, interior materials are as good and I still get over 30MPG at 75MPG--sounds like a "L of a deal" to me! Bob
What is it with Toyota?? If the navigation system really IS an embarrassing piece of trash, non user-friendly, etc., etc., ad nauseam, why is the same cheap stuff STILL showing up, even in the 2007 models? Did Toyota's bean-counters find this thing at a fire sale, foisted on them by a manufacturer who was unable to move it to a more respectable, responsible auto producer who actually CARES about its reputation AND its customers? Is it rocket science to look at the competition that has a superior system, approach its supplier, and say , "Build some of those things for us, too" ? The arrogance with which this corporation treats us is appalling, and the quirky transmission is the prime example of that!
If anyone out there has a subscription to techinfo.toyota.com, one of the new documents posted in the last week is "2007 Avalon, . . . New Car Features." That should detail the changes between the two years. If so, whoever has such a subscription could post the details of the document for the benefit and enlightenment of all.
Also, the following was posted on Toyota's pressroom website: "Avalon, the flagship of the Toyota passenger car lineup, continues to set the standard for performance, luxury, and value in its class. Safety is enhanced on the Avalon with the addition of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as standard equipment for 2007. The base MSRP for the Avalon ranges from $26,875 for the XL grade to $34,065 for the Limited grade. The total Avalon average MSRP increases $100 or 0.3 percent."
It looks as if the tire pressure monitor is the main change.
Check out the 2007 Avalon brochure. Nothing new except tire pressure monitor. I'm checking out other manufactures. The Acura TL and Nissan Maxima are starting to look better.
I saw the official Toyota release stating there are only two changes, the re-designed Smart Key remote and the addition of the tire pressure monitoring system. Other "changes" may be in what equipment packages will contain and on which models they will be available.
I am greatly disappointed to learn this. It is pathetic that Toyota's "Flagship" wouldn't have all the features available on the Camry now has. My ordered 2007 Avalon should arrive within the next 7 days. If I liked the Camry, I would argue with the dealer to transfer my $500 deposit to the Camry instead. Toyota isn't the car company it used to be ... I actually am starting to think they want to do worse so GM is put out of business.
Comments
If they have the Camry NAV and Bluetooth - I'll be first in-line, otherwise I am buying the Camry or 4Runner.
Thanks
Thanks!
I will be waiting.............
Have you (or anyone) bought through Rice Toyota recently? I live in Charlotte and don't like the run-around that I'm getting from some of the local dealers. I don't mind traveling up to Greensboro or working with another out-of-town dealer to get a good deal. We don't buy cars often, as we prefer to keep our cars for 7-12 years, so I've never tried to buy via internet. Could someone comment about the relative ease/difficulty with getting competitive prices via some of the Toyota dealers in the S.E.
We're looking at the Avalon for my wife and thinking that we should wait for the '07 after hearing that they may have Bluetooth, MP3, tire-pressure monitor and 6-speed. We would like to buy within the next 2-3 months.
I, too, have been anxiously awaiting the 07 announcement. Last year, some people had 06 Avalons in August, so some info should be available shortly. I guess Toyota doesn't want to announce too early as it may hurt the sale of the existing 06 Avalons that are still on the lots.
I'm hoping that the 07 comes through with most the things that you mention, especially the 6-speed. I'm thinking that the infamous hesitation problem with the 5-speed is fixed with the 6-speed, but no guarantee.
Thanks
get a 06 if theres no major change.
For those that feel that 6 speeds must be better than 5, and/or have to have the other techno gizmos - sure would push some sales to a full boat Camry, would'nt it?
http://lexus.com/models/es/350_specifications.html
Also, have anybody know if toyota fixed the problematic 5-speed transmission yet? Canadian had a recall on Avalon.
Bob
I've made up my mind, if the 2007 Av doesn't have upgraded Nav I'm going for the ES 350.
Bob
Also, the following was posted on Toyota's pressroom website: "Avalon, the flagship of the Toyota passenger car lineup, continues to set the standard for performance, luxury, and value in its class. Safety is enhanced on the Avalon with the addition of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as standard equipment for 2007. The base MSRP for the Avalon ranges from $26,875 for the XL grade to $34,065 for the Limited grade. The total Avalon average MSRP increases $100 or 0.3 percent."
It looks as if the tire pressure monitor is the main change.
http://ebrochure.interx2.net/pdfengine/generate.pdf
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