2009 Toyota Avalon

NEW FOR 2009:

- XM Satellite-ready antenna with wiring

- Premium Packages add driver's seat memory system and heated mirrors with memory

For 2009, the Toyota Avalon is unchanged, save for additions to its option packages.

The top model in Toyota's passenger car line-up, the Avalon uses a 3.5-litre V6 with six-speed automatic transmission. It is offered in a single trim line, with two available Premium packages.

Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, six-CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input, heated leather seats with eight-way driver and four-way passenger power adjustment, power locks with keyless entry, power windows, tilt and telescopic wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel, woodgrain trim, cruise control, garage door opener, driver's knee airbag, heated mirrors with auto-dimming driver's side, variable intermittent wipers, headlamp control and fog lights.

The option packages are the Premium Package, with JBL Synthesis audio system with subwoofer, Bluetooth capability, driver's seat memory system, eight-way power passenger seat, power lumbar support, rear spoiler, and rain-sensing wipers, and the Premium Package with Navigation, which also adds a DVD-based navigation system.

It's been around a long time, but the Avalon remains a solid car, with bank-vault doors and whisper-quiet operation, and with power to back up its impeccable manners: Lexus quality at a Toyota price.