2011 TOYOTA AVALON

	Starting MSRP	Invoice
Avalon 4dr Sedan Base	$32,245	$28,696
Avalon 4dr Sedan Limited	$35,485	$31,579
Destination Charge: $750

The full-size 2011 Toyota Avalon features new styling and a new dash. The 3.5-liter V-6 and 6-speed automatic transmission remain the same, but by some transmission tuning, the gas mileage is up 1 mpg overall and is now EPA-rated at 20/29 mpg city/highway which is at the top of the large car market.

Last year's XL, XLS and Limited trim levels have been narrowed to two: the base Avalon and up-scale Limited.

The Avalon's headlights, side mirrors and taillights are new. A wider grille connects the headlights, while the front bumper has a wider, more bottom-heavy air dam. The side mirrors include turn-signal indicators. They now fold in — last year's did not — and, on the Avalon Limited, include puddle lamps. In back, the taillights gain LED light pipes.

Fog lights and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard; Limited models add rain-sensing wipers, chrome door handles and xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights.

The hinged doors over the navigation system, stereo and climate controls are gone and have replaced by an open design. The navigation system has improved graphics while the 2010 Avalon had a dated, older navigation display. The gauges are also new.

The base Avalon grade is fairly well equipped, with standard leather upholstery, power front seats, reclining rear seats, a moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control and a CD stereo with USB/iPod compatibility. Limited models add heated, ventilated seats, a keyless access system with push-button start, an upgraded JBL stereo and a power rear sunshade. Many of those features are optional on the base Avalon. The navigation system, which includes a backup camera, is optional.

Toyota's 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 remains standard, as does a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Standard safety features include seven airbags: the required dual front ones plus a driver's knee airbag, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags for both rows. Antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system are also standard.