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2006 Toyota Avalon Sedan
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What's New?
After a complete redesign in 2005, Toyota's full-size Avalon marches into 2006 with a handful of minor improvements. Toyota's Vehicle Stability Control system is now available in the base XL model and in the sporty Touring variant; the latter also adds heated front seats to the options list. A new dealer-installed towing package, which is available on all models, allows the Avalon to tow up to 1,000 lbs.
Overview
For many years the Toyota Avalon was, for all intents and purposes, a XL Camry. When the third-generation Avalon made its debut in 2005, not only was the new model longer and wider, but it also featured unique styling inside and out, plus a bevy of comfort and convenience features that one might expect to find in a luxury car.
Major standard features on the entry-level XL include power locks/windows/mirrors, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable driver seat, and a vehicle security system. Touring models offer a sport-tuned suspension as well as leather-trimmed seats with power adjustment for both driver and passenger. The mid-range Avalon XLS includes all of the XL features plus a power adjustable passenger seat, six-disc CD changer, moonroof, and auto-dimming rear view and side mirrors.
The top-of the-line Limited adds a 12-speaker JBL sound system, heated and cooled leather seats, and the Smart Key system, which consists of a small key-fob transmitter that remains in the driver's pocket or purse. As the driver approaches, the vehicle senses the presence of Smart Key and unlocks the doors when the door handle is touched. Pressing a button on the dash starts the car, and your keys never leave your pocket or purse. Optional on the Limited is Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, a system that automatically adjusts vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle ahead. Also optional: an acoustic windshield designed to reduce interior noise.
The engine, a 3.5L V-6 producing 268 hp and 248 lb.-ft. of torque, is coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission, Toyota claims this engine can accelerate the Avalon from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. EPA mileage estimates are 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, and the Avalon meets ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards.
The Competition
The Avalon is one of fourteen models in the Large Conventional segment. This segment is very competitive, and bang for the buck is the name of the game.
According to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,SM this segment accounted for little more than 2 percent of the light-vehicle market for 2005. Sales leaders in 2005 were the Chevrolet Impala (246,481), followed by the Chrysler 300 (144,048), Pontiac Grand Prix (122,398), and Ford Five Hundred (107,932). The Avalon ranked fifth with 95,318 sales. Other vehicles in this class include the Nissan Maxima, Mercury Montego and Grand Marquis, Ford Crown Victoria, Dodge Charger and Magnum, Kia Amanti, Buick Lucerne, and Hyundai Azera.
After a complete redesign in 2005, Toyota's full-size Avalon marches into 2006 with a handful of minor improvements. Toyota's Vehicle Stability Control system is now available in the base XL model and in the sporty Touring variant; the latter also adds heated front seats to the options list. A new dealer-installed towing package, which is available on all models, allows the Avalon to tow up to 1,000 lbs.
Overview
For many years the Toyota Avalon was, for all intents and purposes, a XL Camry. When the third-generation Avalon made its debut in 2005, not only was the new model longer and wider, but it also featured unique styling inside and out, plus a bevy of comfort and convenience features that one might expect to find in a luxury car.
Major standard features on the entry-level XL include power locks/windows/mirrors, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable driver seat, and a vehicle security system. Touring models offer a sport-tuned suspension as well as leather-trimmed seats with power adjustment for both driver and passenger. The mid-range Avalon XLS includes all of the XL features plus a power adjustable passenger seat, six-disc CD changer, moonroof, and auto-dimming rear view and side mirrors.
The top-of the-line Limited adds a 12-speaker JBL sound system, heated and cooled leather seats, and the Smart Key system, which consists of a small key-fob transmitter that remains in the driver's pocket or purse. As the driver approaches, the vehicle senses the presence of Smart Key and unlocks the doors when the door handle is touched. Pressing a button on the dash starts the car, and your keys never leave your pocket or purse. Optional on the Limited is Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, a system that automatically adjusts vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle ahead. Also optional: an acoustic windshield designed to reduce interior noise.
The engine, a 3.5L V-6 producing 268 hp and 248 lb.-ft. of torque, is coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission, Toyota claims this engine can accelerate the Avalon from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. EPA mileage estimates are 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, and the Avalon meets ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards.
The Competition
The Avalon is one of fourteen models in the Large Conventional segment. This segment is very competitive, and bang for the buck is the name of the game.
According to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,SM this segment accounted for little more than 2 percent of the light-vehicle market for 2005. Sales leaders in 2005 were the Chevrolet Impala (246,481), followed by the Chrysler 300 (144,048), Pontiac Grand Prix (122,398), and Ford Five Hundred (107,932). The Avalon ranked fifth with 95,318 sales. Other vehicles in this class include the Nissan Maxima, Mercury Montego and Grand Marquis, Ford Crown Victoria, Dodge Charger and Magnum, Kia Amanti, Buick Lucerne, and Hyundai Azera.
