The Avalon is Toyota's flagship passenger car, with quality craftsmanship and smooth handling that make it a desirable choice among full-size sedans.

The front-wheel drive Avalon is available in two trim levels: Base and Limited. Both are powered by a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. The Base trim is well-equipped, with 17-inch alloy wheels, a power moonroof, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless connectivity with music streaming and a USB port. The Limited is further outfitted with HID low-beam headlamps, heated/ventilated front seats, Smart Key passive entry with push button start, power rear sunshade and a 6-disc CD changer; a voice-activated touch-screen navigation system is available for both trims. Safety features include anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, vehicle stability and traction control systems, front side-impact airbags, overhead curtain airbags for front and rear occupants, a driver-side knee airbag and active anti-whiplash front head restraints; new for 2011, a back-up camera parking aid is also standard.

The Toyota Avalon has been redesigned for 2011, with fresh exterior styling and an upgraded interior, along with new standard equipment and technologies. New features include projector-style headlamps, LED taillights, satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, USB port and a back-up camera. Additionally, the previous model year's XL trim has been discontinued, and the XLS becomes the Base trim for 2011.

Fine balance of softness, composure. -- Consumer Guide

The Avalon interior is remarkably clean and uncluttered. -- New Car Test Drive

Rear legroom is particularly generous with three-across seating facilitated by elimination of the rear hump. -- New Car Test Drive

We quickly discovered the Avalon is the kind of car that will never annoy you, a car best characterized by the absence of noise, vibration or harshness. -- New Car Test Drive

The engine is spooky smooth, velvety in its power delivery, and dang near silent in operation while the transmission's ratios seem perfectly chosen. -- The Car Connection

...the V6 can barely be heard while idling and is glassy-smooth across the rev band. -- The Car Connection