Report Card Toyota Avalon XLS
Powertrain/performance: A
Interior comfort: B+
Ergonomics: A+
Highway ride: B
Steering: A
Handling: A
Styling: B
Noise & vibration: A
Value: A-
Thumbs up: Excellent fit and finish. Smooth, responsive V6. Generous front and rear legroom. Best handling of group.
Thumbs Down: Bland styling. Comparatively narrow cabin. Pricey.
Toyota's venture into the world of six-seaters reflects its usual attention to detail. The Avalon's fit and finish is the best of the group. The narrower cabin is offset by above-average legroom. Handling is quick and responsive. The Avalon and the New Yorker are most apt to appeal to the "under 50" crowd.