Toyota Avalon 2000 Review

A comfortable, though pasteurized, full-size sedan.

Vehicle overview

It would seem buyers of full-sized sedans generally aren't too interested in character. Most full-size sedans are dull pieces of machinery to look at and a snooze to drive. The beauty in such a vehicle lies in what it can do for the customer in terms of providing space for people and things without compromising the ride or occupant comfort. It should look upscale, but not gaudy, providing just enough glitz and luxury to let others know you have achieved a degree of success in life. Finally, such a vehicle must also be reliable and able to handle years of daily-driver tasks without so much as a whimper.

Since its introduction in 1995, the Toyota Avalon has fit this description. A little bland, perhaps, but solid, roomy, and dependable. For 2000, the Avalon enters its second generation. Substantial changes have been made to improve its already good traits, as well as add a bit of excitement. There are two models: XL and XLS. The main difference between the two is the level of standard equipment. Both can be ordered with front bucket or bench seats.

Avalon's 3.0-liter V6 engine now features a variable valve timing system (Toyota calls its system VVT-i). The system provides additional horsepower, improved fuel economy and torque, lower emissions and smoother shifting. The previous Avalon was no slouch, so the engine improvements are just icing on the cake.

Toyota has also updated the styling. A side benefit of this is a reduction in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Comfort amenities include a new dual-control air conditioner, an optional JBL premium grade audio (standard on the XLS), and an improved multi-information display. There's also increased trunk volume, grocery bag hooks, and a larger storage tray and cargo net. A universal remote system that can be programmed to open garage doors, gates and turn on house lights is standard on XLS models.

Safety is enhanced with an optional package on XLS models that includes Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) and traction control. VSC utilizes the braking system to correct understeer or oversteer conditions in a turn. Traction control reduces tire slippage during acceleration. Toyota also added a brake-assist feature that detects emergency braking and applies supplemental line pressure to reduce stopping distance.

Additional new safety features include a stronger body structure that effectively absorbs and diffuses energy along predictable paths, added energy absorbing material to the roof rails, front pillar and center pillar to help reduce potential head injury, and enlarged rearview mirrors. The front seats have been strengthened and a rear center adjustable headrest has been added.

We recommend that potential buyers of a new full-sized sedan take a look at the 2000 Avalon. As before, its price is more than the offerings from Detroit like the Buick LeSabre, Dodge Intrepid and Ford Crown Victoria. But unflappable quality has a price. Want a Lexus but need six-passenger capacity or huge amounts of rear legroom? The Avalon is your car.

2000 Highlights