Toyota Avalon Gets New Six-Speed Transmission And Luxury Upgrades For 2008


October 1, 2007 – Torrance, CA - The Toyota Avalon – the platinum standard in premium midsize sedans – offers enhanced performance from a new six-speed automatic transmission and a revised braking system for 2008. Revised exterior styling and new luxury upgrades make Avalon an even more desirable choice among full-size sedans.

A new bumper, grille and headlights update the Avalon at the front, and new smoked tail lamp lenses add a touch of sophistication. Chrome door handles and a new wheel design for the Touring and XLS grades accentuate Avalon’s upscale design.

The new six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides a sequential manual shift feature for a more involved driving experience when desired. A revised braking system employs larger rear discs and aluminum rear calipers.

Inside Avalon for 2008, numerous enhancements to standard and optional equipment increase comfort and convenience. The standard XL model for 2008 now offers an available four-way power passenger seat, while the XLS and Limited offer an optional new eight-way power passenger seat. All grades gain a standard new multi-information display, leather shift knob and additional chrome interior accents.

Music-playing versatility is assured by a newly standard six-disc CD changer for all models, plus a mini-jack for connecting an iPod® or MP3/WMA music player to the vehicle’s audio system. Bluetooth® wireless technology is included with the JBL audio upgrade package (standard on Limited).

The third-generation Avalon was designed at Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., developed by U.S.-based Toyota Technical Centers and is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Georgetown, KY.

The Avalon is offered in four grades, the standard XL, the sporty Touring, the extremely well-equipped XLS and the top-of-the-line Limited, which compares well to near-luxury models for comfort and amenities. The XLS and Limited models gain even more luxury touches for 2008, starting with a new rich dark wood grain and chrome trim interior.

Both the XLS and Limited models now also offer power-adjustable lumbar for the front passenger seat. On the Limited, the rear sunshade now re-extends when the driver shifts from Reverse to Drive.

Contemporary Design and Comfort
Avalon exudes a powerful stance, distinguished by a sleek grille with chrome accented horizontal bars and subtle character lines defining a contemporary profile. The lower intake valance houses fog lamps on the Touring, XLS and Limited models, and the Touring model also features a rear spoiler.

Toyota optimized the exterior design of the Avalon for minimal wind noise. Numerous small details contribute to lower cabin noise and vibration, including refining the shape of the A-pillar and side mirrors and lowering the position of the aerodynamic windshield wipers. In addition, the Avalon Limited model offers a specially designed acoustic windshield.

Side mirrors on the Limited grade feature in-glass LED turn signals, and an LED puddle lamp illuminates the area along the side of the car when passengers approach the vehicle. The Limited grade also features side mirror memory. Touring and Limited grades come standard with high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with dynamic automatic leveling for improved visibility, while reducing glare for oncoming traffic. Large tail lamps and an elegantly sculptured trunk distinguish the Avalon from the rear, and dual exhaust outlets add a sporty touch.

Avalon's elegant exterior is complemented by its refined interior. Outstanding fit-and-finish is apparent throughout the cabin. Amenities for driver comfort include a tilt and telescopic steering column and a center console sliding armrest. Rear passengers benefit from a flat rear floor that provides generous legroom, and the rear seats recline up to 10 degrees.

Sport Sedan Performance with Luxurious Ride and Comfort
All Avalon models are powered by a 3.5-liter, 24-valve V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) and a dual-stage variable intake manifold ensure outstanding performance at all engine speeds.

The Avalon can effortlessly accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 7.7 seconds, and it also achieves admirable estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway. The 2008 Avalon is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV).

Responsive handling makes Avalon engaging to drive, yet ride quality remains a benchmark of smoothness. The XL model features 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels standard on the other grades. The Touring model features a more firmly tuned suspension and higher coil spring rates than other Avalon models, and its wheels feature a graphite finish. All Avalon models are equipped with a standard full-size spare tire.

Comprehensive Safety Package
The Avalon’s supplemental restraint system (SRS) includes standard front seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side-curtain airbags that help provide protection in certain types of severe side impacts. The Avalon also features a driver's knee airbag as standard equipment.

The standard anti-lock brake system (ABS) features Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is available with traction control (TRAC) and Brake Assist (BA) on all models. VSC is designed to detect and help to correct loss of lateral traction during cornering. VSC integrates traction control (TRAC) to help limit wheel spin on slippery road surfaces. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to activate the ABS, it applies maximum braking pressure until the driver releases pedal pressure.

Equipped to Please
The Avalon XL grade is extremely well equipped and includes as standard a premium AM/FM stereo with six-disc CD changer and nine speakers; dual-zone automatic climate control with air filtration; remote keyless entry; power door locks with an anti-lockout feature; power windows with driver and passenger automatic up/down with jam protection and retained power; a multi-adjustable power driver’s seat, and a center console storage area.

Additional standard features include a tilt and telescopic steering column; steering wheel mounted audio and climate controls; multi-function information display with audio, climate control, temperature and trip computer; cruise control; engine immobilizer security system, and a maintenance indicator light.

The Avalon Touring grade – in addition to its sporty suspension tuning – adds comfort features over the XL, including leather-trimmed seats; a power front passenger seat; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminum door scuff plates.

Building on the XL grade’s standard features, the Avalon XLS adds a power moonroof; four-way adjustable power passenger seat; in-dash six-disc CD changer; dual heated outside mirrors with auto-dimming electrochromic driver's side; auto-dimming electrochromic rearview mirror with compass; aluminum door scuff plates, and an anti-theft system.

A Strong Taste of Luxury in Avalon Limited
The top-of-the-line Avalon Limited offers luxury-grade comfort. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather. The driver and front passenger seats are heated and ventilated. The front of the driver’s seat cushion length is power-adjustable, offering improved thigh support. The Avalon Limited also features a JBL Synthesis audio system with a six-disc CD changer and 12 speakers, and for 2008 adds Bluetooth® wireless connectivity.

Additional amenities in the Limited include a one-touch auto-reverse power rear sunshade; memory driver's seat, rain-sensing wipers, HID headlamps and the Smart Key System. With Smart Key, the driver carries a light, compact key fob that signals a sensor in the car when it is near, turning on the puddle lamps and interior dome lamp, and then unlocking the doors when the handle is touched. The car is started by a pushbutton. The driver can open the trunk by touching the handle when the key fob is carried near the rear bumper.

Options for Even More Comfort
Options available on XL and Touring grades include a power moonroof and an anti-theft system. A 360-watt maximum output JBL Synthesis audio system with six-disc CD changer and 12 speakers is offered on Touring and XLS models and adds Bluetooth wireless connectivity for 2008. Heated front seats are also available on the Touring.

A navigation system is available for the XLS, Touring and Limited models. The navigation controls have surface-emitting illumination and hide away above the gated shifter. Maps, climate and select audio controls are shown on the seven-inch LCD color display located beneath the center air vents.

The Avalon Limited offers the Dynamic Laser Cruise Control system that can maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. The system can reduce the Avalon's speed if the preceding vehicle slows down or if another vehicle pulls in between.

A Remote Engine Starter is available on all Avalon grades equipped with the factory alarm system as a port- or dealer-installed option. After the driver has started the engine by depressing a button on the key fob, the climate control system will use the most recent settings to help ensure cabin comfort quickly.

Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

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are they seriously trying to make the interior look cheap so there is no cannibalization of lexus sales?
i hate those cheap blue buttons

My dad just ordered the '08 Limited. I'm actually quite happy of the changes with the '08, especially the upgraded tranny as well as dark wood trim instead of that pale yellow one they once had...

This is one good looking car.

are they seriously trying to make the interior look cheap so there is no cannibalization of lexus sales?
i hate those cheap blue buttons

Blue? You talking about the iPod-like white buttons? I like those! They're rubbery and cool in a sedan that's catered to old folks. They're backlit in white.

Edit: Actually, the thing that's cheap in there is the flimsy plastic covers for the radio and bin (non-nav models). It's very similar to the tC's radio cover.

My dad just ordered the '08 Limited. I'm actually quite happy of the changes with the '08, especially the upgraded tranny as well as dark wood trim instead of that pale yellow one they once had...

Dunno about the US but up here in Canada, we had a choice btwn the light wood and a dark red wood.

Looks like for 2008, there's gonna be one wood option... and that looks even darker (chocolate almost)

So the Avalon has an iPod connection - do the Lexus ES/GS/IS have one yet?

Nice car except the silver painted plastic center console is just plain nasty and cheap. :thumbdn: :thumbdn:

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Nice car except the silver painted plastic center console is just plain nasty and cheap. :thumbdn: :thumbdn:

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Agreed.....and they also need to take that zig-zag shift pattern off the console and put back the old fore-aft shifters like Honda still uses.

(They had a chance to do that with the new 6-speed transmission and DIDN'T):egads:

Agreed.....and they also need to take that zig-zag shift pattern off the console and put back the old fore-aft shifters like Honda still uses.

(They had a chance to do that with the new 6-speed transmission and DIDN'T):egads:

Well it has a manual shift mode. It's assumed that you have a gated shifter when you have a manual shift mode automatic.

So the Avalon has an iPod connection - do the Lexus ES/GS/IS have one yet?

It doesn't, it has an AUX connector for any audio in using a standard headphone sized plug.

id buy this over an ES350

Still think it is a very sweet car (seen a bunch on the road already) , but not liking the new grill.

At least it does not have the 8-speed.

id buy this over an ES350

Same here. I love the Avalon and am very seriously considering this as a replacement for my '04 GS soon. It's amazing how much more technology this "Toyota" has over my 3-year old "Lexus" :sad:

Anyway, after sitting in quite a few of these already, I just hope they improved the fit and finish on the '08 models. I have to say, I was pretty surprised at how poor some of the pieces and panels fit together on the '05-'07s. It's a great sedan, definitely one of my favorites, but I hope they improved some aspects of the previous models.

I like the zig zag pattern.

So the Avalon has an iPod connection - do the Lexus ES/GS/IS have one yet?

Give them another 5 years:rolleyes:

It's customary for the cheaper toyotas to get the cheap goodies before lexus does-so stupid of lexus:thumbdn:

And guess again, it's a stupid mini jack plug and not an ordinary ipod plug.
plus a mini-jack for connecting an iPod® or MP3/WMA music player to the vehicle’s audio system.

I see that they use the GS460 foglight style.

The avalon is one heck of a car:thumbup:
I had to do a double take when I saw the Q45 from behind:eek2:
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whats the M45 refresh, not the Q

The new dark wood looks nice, and I like the zig zag shifter

I tried to convince my mother in law to go with this over the Buick Lucerne, but to no avail. She wanted the bench seat...

whats the M45 refresh, not the Q

Nope that's the Q refresh.

front end is still ugly.

is this gonna use the problematic 6speed in the current ES and camry?......

Nope that's the Q refresh.

Yeah--it's pretty smart on Infiniti's part. Make the more expensive Q flagship look more like the less expensive M. Always good to have your flagship mistaken for a less expensive model...

Yeah--it's pretty smart on Infiniti's part. Make the more expensive Q flagship look more like the less expensive M. Always good to have your flagship mistaken for a less expensive model...

Nice sarcasm :rolleyes:

However, the Q has been discontinued as of MY 2007. In fact, Q production ended about two years ago. And in case you didn't realize, the refreshed Q was released in 2004 as a 2005 model, at least 6-8 months before the M came out.

Back on topic guys please.

One thing I wish they'd change would be the navigation... I felt tricked when I went to look at one of these in person and found that it was NOT a touchscreen. That little flip up door hides a little jog knob and selector buttons.

ive always like the avalon except for the side profile. that crease on the doors isnt that pleasing to the eye. however, i think the front now looks more last gen LSish, esp around the headlights and grill area.

the reason why these toyotas get more of the "better" updated tech is because of 1 of the 2 reasons i can think of:

1) they need these gadgets to appeal to the mass market. Lexus can sell their own cars without all this stuff because it has the name to back it up. people will buy the lexus for the lexus. also, old people dont listen to ipods :p

2) it just so happens that redesigns for toyotas happen when things like ipod adapters seem to pop up. its just a coincidence. eventually, lexus is redesign their cars to include this....

Back on topic guys please.

One thing I wish they'd change would be the navigation... I felt tricked when I went to look at one of these in person and found that it was NOT a touchscreen. That little flip up door hides a little jog knob and selector buttons.

My Honda has a little joystick control, which I miss on the Lexus. Honda is still a touchscreen, but not to the extent that if you touch a spot on the screen, it will center to that position. I guess I'd like both functions--I like touching the screen with my finger to get the street address of that location, but I like the joystick control to move the screen a few streets over not currently shown on the screen.

Nice sarcasm :rolleyes:

However, the Q has been discontinued as of MY 2007.

You did, in fact, show me. I stand corrected.

Back on topic...

Back on topic guys please.

One thing I wish they'd change would be the navigation... I felt tricked when I went to look at one of these in person and found that it was NOT a touchscreen. That little flip up door hides a little jog knob and selector buttons.

Well when you're targeting a particular age group, a screen that's farther away can be beneficial ;) (i.e. easier to read).

Also, they had alignment issues between the wood panels on the door and the dashboard. I can't upload the hires version cause it's too large for this site (856kb) so here's the lowres. It's somewhat fixed but the right side seems a bit off. It could be perception and because we're looking at it at a slight angle but the wood trim doesn't align well.

The new lower front fascia looks like it's from Nissan. Needs like chrome surrounds for the fogs to brighten it up a little. I also hate the steering wheels on the new Toyotas.

But, overall, the Avalon is still very nice.

After 20 years+ of making cars, you would think Toyota changed the clock design. Seems like all they did was make change from the color green to blue:rolleyes:

After 20 years+ of making cars, you would think Toyota changed the clock design. Seems like all they did was make change from the color green to blue:rolleyes:

I actually never got peoples infatuation with clocks in cars. I have a phone, a watch and rarely look at the clock in the car.

If I look at the clock in the car, its like when I enter and maybe 3 other times.

Thats just me though. :uh::D

a nice looking clock would be like a watch, digital watches isn't classy

Well when you're targeting a particular age group, a screen that's farther away can be beneficial ;) (i.e. easier to read).

Also, they had alignment issues between the wood panels on the door and the dashboard. I can't upload the hires version cause it's too large for this site (856kb) so here's the lowres. It's somewhat fixed but the right side seems a bit off. It could be perception and because we're looking at it at a slight angle but the wood trim doesn't align well.

I think you are correct on the age thing. JD Power says that 74% of Avalon buyers are age 56+. I'm sure they'd like to lower that, but for now that's their market and they'll keep things like that in mind for the car...

I think you are correct on the age thing. JD Power says that 74% of Avalon buyers are age 56+. I'm sure they'd like to lower that, but for now that's their market and they'll keep things like that in mind for the car...

Well, the average age doesn't HAVE to be 56+. That is not Toyota's fault....that just means that younger buyers are turning down a nice car, just because they may not think it is "cool" or because Mom and Dad (or Grandpa and Grandma) have one.......once again, we get back to the old image problem. If people bought for practical and sensible reasons rather then image, the market demographics would probably be quite different from what they are now.

That, of course, does not only apply to the Avalon, but to its primary competitors, too.....the Hyundai Azera (which I think is a better buy than the Avalon), Buick Lucerne, Chevy Impala (the non-SS model), Kia Amanti, and Ford Five Hundred (Taurus)/ Mercury Montego (Sable).

The new lower front fascia looks like it's from Nissan. Needs like chrome surrounds for the fogs to brighten it up a little. I also hate the steering wheels on the new Toyotas.

But, overall, the Avalon is still very nice.

It does have a chrome surround. You gotta get the XLS or Limited model.

I think you are correct on the age thing. JD Power says that 74% of Avalon buyers are age 56+. I'm sure they'd like to lower that, but for now that's their market and they'll keep things like that in mind for the car...

I'm just taking a guess, that's all. I mean the screen is more or less in the same position as the previous generation Avalon. I'm sure Avalon buyers would scream if the screen was where the radio is because they now can't see the screen because of the glare from certain angles. At its current location, the hood's deep enough to ward off any glare from the sun.


I prefer touchscreen but if this Avalon's nav controls (Which I think are kinda cool to be tucked away when not in use) is intuitive enough, then it shouldn't matter.

The problem with touchscreens and electronic sensor-buttons is that they are tricky to use except on glass-smooth roads. If the car is bouncing a little on road imperfections (and that is more and more a problem nowadays with ever-firmer suspensions and tires), you often end up skipping your finger and touching the wrong sensor, or hitting one at the wrong moment. That is why I like old-fashioned, easy-to-use, round KNOBS.

Fortunately, the Avalon's ride, despite some stiffening lately, is still on the soft side by today's standards.

looks pretty nice... good facelift..

I actually never got peoples infatuation with clocks in cars. I have a phone, a watch and rarely look at the clock in the car.

If I look at the clock in the car, its like when I enter and maybe 3 other times.

Thats just me though. :uh::D

It's just you :D


I always check the clock. I can easily see it. I rather not look down at my phone while driving :( Kinda wish they would update the looks of it just slightly. Hell, give me an analog clock!:thumbup:

The problem with touchscreens and electronic sensor-buttons is that they are tricky to use except on glass-smooth roads. If the car is bouncing a little on road imperfections (and that is more and more a problem nowadays with ever-firmer suspensions and tires), you often end up skipping your finger and touching the wrong sensor, or hitting one at the wrong moment. That is why I like old-fashioned, easy-to-use, round KNOBS.

Fortunately, the Avalon's ride, despite some stiffening lately, is still on the soft side by today's standards.

Good point, never gave a thought about it. I usually rest my hand on the base of the screen for some support.

No idea how you'd do it on the Lexus models since the screen is almost always flush with the console with little or no "lip" at the base of the screen.

I got to check this car out today. Nice car over all. I wouldn't mind buying it myself. Sales guy quoted me $35K and change out the door for the Limited with no Nav (Toyota and Lexus still has no nav for Hawaii). A few problems though. I don't like how Toyoya, and many manufacturers for that matter option out their cars. I personally don't get why they limit interior colors to certain model trims. It is the same car, they should open all the interior trims and colors to all their trim levels. For example. I want a white car with a black leather interior with wood. I want the firmer sportier suspension. I want the HID lights, the rain sensing wipers (For my wife because she likes that) and the push start button. Problem is, the Touring Model has the sports suspension, HIDs, and black leather (Really called Dark Charchol), but no push start button, rain sensing wipers, mirror turn signals and puddle lights. No bid deal right? Just get the Limited Model than. No can do because it doesn't come with the sports suspension, and worst of all it doesn't come with the black (Dark Charchol) interior with the white exterior.

I ran into the same thing for the 08 Infiniti G35. The white color car is no longer available with their black colored interior. There are so many cars that I wouldn't mind buying but decide not to buy simply because I can't get the exterior color with interior color of my choice. I can understand it if that particular color isn't offered at all, but when it is offered with other exterior colors or trim levels that just upsets me. It really does cost them a few sales because I'm one of them. If I can't buy what I really want, no sense in buying it at all. Over all the 08 changes to the Avalon are really nice and I like this car much better than the Lexus ES350. Probably wont get it simply because you can't get the black interior on the Limited model. My wife still likes the Lexus RX, so hopefully the 09 Model can be had exactly how I want it.

I actually never got peoples infatuation with clocks in cars. I have a phone, a watch and rarely look at the clock in the car.

If I look at the clock in the car, its like when I enter and maybe 3 other times.

D

I like having a clock in the car. I have not worn a watch for well over 5 years. I use the clock in the car and my cell.

Same here with the clock. I don't wear a watch and grabbing the cell phone from my pocket is a PITA sometimes. Especially since it is a PDA phone so it really isn't on. I loved the clock in the dash cluster on my SC400 and BMW 330i. It is right there in your line of sight. I still haven't gotten used to finding the clock on my LS400. My eyes never go directly to it. I aways have to look for it for a second or two.

for the price, this car is great, we honestly almost bought one but we got such a good deal on the rx, we took that instead, but really, if u took of the toyota badge, i can assure you some ppl would take this over a mercedes

I actually never got peoples infatuation with clocks in cars. I have a phone, a watch and rarely look at the clock in the car.



That so-called infatuation with clocks in modern cars seems to have started with two things........First, the fact that, unlike those of decades ago, the clocks in modern cars actually WORK, and, Second, Infiniti started making auto clocks fashionable again when it introduced the circular/oval crystal analog dash clocks with its first cars in 1990-91. They became a big hit and an Infiniti tradition.....and other automakers, to an extent, have copied them.

i love the avalon, especially the ones before the refresh with the toyota body kit with the bbs wheels added to it, it looked so hott, im on 20 years old, have a 02 GS300 right now and i wouldnt mind buying and driving around a avalon, but it has to have that kit on the car for me to drive it, if not, i feel like the car looks like a old people car. i wonder how this one is gonna work with the kit. but overall i do like the changes, and especially the darker wood

I got to check this car out today. Nice car over all. I wouldn't mind buying it myself. Sales guy quoted me $35K and change out the door for the Limited with no Nav (Toyota and Lexus still has no nav for Hawaii). A few problems though. I don't like how Toyoya, and many manufacturers for that matter option out their cars. I personally don't get why they limit interior colors to certain model trims. It is the same car, they should open all the interior trims and colors to all their trim levels. For example. I want a white car with a black leather interior with wood. I want the firmer sportier suspension. I want the HID lights, the rain sensing wipers (For my wife because she likes that) and the push start button. Problem is, the Touring Model has the sports suspension, HIDs, and black leather (Really called Dark Charchol), but no push start button, rain sensing wipers, mirror turn signals and puddle lights. No bid deal right? Just get the Limited Model than. No can do because it doesn't come with the sports suspension, and worst of all it doesn't come with the black (Dark Charchol) interior with the white exterior.

I'm sure you can special order. You just have to find a dealer that's willing to do it for you. And of course it'll take a while to arrive but hey, you'll be the only one with a white/black Avalon!

I'm sure you can special order. You just have to find a dealer that's willing to do it for you. And of course it'll take a while to arrive but hey, you'll be the only one with a white/black Avalon!
Actually, the Limited does not get a black leather interior, but a dark grey one.

You can get a black interior with the Touring, but not the Limited.

My dad just Special Ordered one earlier this month, and he wanted black leather, but it wasn't gonna happen. He compromised with the dark grey.

Actually, the Limited does not get a black leather interior, but a dark grey one.

You can get a black interior with the Touring, but not the Limited.

My dad just Special Ordered one earlier this month, and he wanted black leather, but it wasn't gonna happen. He compromised with the dark grey.

dang, scratch the special order idea then. That sucks.

Well is the dark grey dark enough? lol. Like.. Stone grey on the Camry or darker?

The Limited does look nice and it has quite a bit of luxury - heated/cooled seats, puddle lights, SKS, opt. laser CC, reclining rear seats, power rear sunshade, memory seats etc.

But with gas expected to go to $1.50/litre soon (here in BC), the TCH is looking more and more inviting. Gotta see what the 2009 version brings in February (supposedly Toyota will bring out the 2009s early.. hopefully it's in response to the new Accord)

Well is the dark grey dark enough? lol. Like.. Stone grey on the Camry or darker?

Is this Graphite leather dark enough? (as seen on Toyota.com)

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For me, no. The Graphite (Dark Gray) leather color is not dark enough. Sure, my RX330 was light gray, the BMW 330i I have now is light gray, but all these were compromises. I have owned black interior cars before that that is my first choice, with the gray or dark gray being second. However, now I have realized that I have never been 100% satisfied with all the other interior colors (Espeically my tan ones) and I have made up my mind that I will never compromise on interior color again. I can compromise wood trim vs aluminum, or exterior color within a certain range of colors, evem sports suspension or no sports suspension since I generally add after market parts anyway. If the Touing model came with a push button start, I could comprimise the lack of LED/Puddle light mirrors, no perferated leather seats, no rain sensing wipers (That is for my wife anyway), but no black interior is a no deal unfortunately. Too bad because I like what Toyota has done with the minor updates for the 08 model.

All is not lost though. As ex Lexus RX330 owners, we are going to wait to see what the new 09 RX350 looks like. We might end up with another Lexus RX.

If the Touing model came with a push button start, I could comprimise the lack of LED/Puddle light mirrors, no perferated leather seats, no rain sensing wipers (That is for my wife anyway), but no black interior is a no deal unfortunately. Too bad because I like what Toyota has done with the minor updates for the 08 model.

Excuse me for saying this, but I think this statement is a little ridiculous. You could do without all of these things, but it's the PUSH BUTTON START that is keeping you from getting the touring model? :confused: :uh:

Is turning a key just too much effort for you that you would give up the opportunity to own a great car over something like this? I understand you wanting the black interior and all, but if you can do without LED/Puddle light mirrors, no perforated leather, & no rain sending wipers, I'm sure you could live without the push button start. :rolleyes:

Excuse me for saying this, but I think this statement is a little ridiculous. You could do without all of these things, but it's the PUSH BUTTON START that is keeping you from getting the touring model? :confused: :uh:

Is turning a key just too much effort for you that you would give up the opportunity to own a great car over something like this? I understand you wanting the black interior and all, but if you can do without LED/Puddle light mirrors, no perforated leather, & no rain sending wipers, I'm sure you could live without the push button start. :rolleyes:

The reason why I can do without the LED mirror/puddle lights is because I can install them myself at a later date. I just have to buy the new mirrors myself. The perforated leather is nice to have. I had cars with them, but also have cars without them so while I prefer it, it is not a deal breaker. I never liked the rain sensing wipers in our Lexus or BMW, but my wife liked it. That option is basically for the wife, but she doesn't need it either. The Push button start is something I wanted in my next new car for a while. If it is available in a car I want it. If it were not available all together in that model I'd think differently. I mean, if the model comes with Comfort Access, or as Toyota/Lexus calls it Smart Access why wouldn't you not want it? The push button start is something I can't retrofit myself at a later date, so it needs to have it if available.

The Avalon is a really nice car, but there are other cars out there that I like as well. Like I said, I've compromised too much in the past, so I decided if/when I get a new car I'll have it my way. We will wait to see how the new 09 RX350 is. If it offers what I want we might get that car. If not, I almost bought the 08 Infiniti G35 Sedan with sports package and maybe I'll get that. While it doesn't offer the White/Black, it does offer my secondary exterior color choices with black interior. The BMW 335i Sedan or Coupe is also on the list. You'll notice all those cars have push start buttons. That is one of the reasons they are on the list to begin with. It is basically this. I know what I want. If one manufacture doesn't offer what I want, I'll just go to another manufacture until I find one that meets my wants. I have no problem owning BMW, Infiniti, Lexus, and in this case the Toyota Avalon if it meet my wants and desires. If you are going to spend $30K-$50K on a car, you might as well have no regrets about it. :)

All in all, instead of asking why I as a customer would turn down a car for a lack of certain features, why don't we ask Toyota why they simply don't offer black interiors in the Limited trim but only in the Touring trim? It is not like it is a different design. It is the same car.

The reason why I can do without the LED mirror/puddle lights is because I can install them myself at a later date. I just have to buy the new mirrors myself. The perforated leather is nice to have. I had cars with them, but also have cars without them so while I prefer it, it is not a deal breaker. I never liked the rain sensing wipers in our Lexus or BMW, but my wife liked it. That option is basically for the wife, but she doesn't need it either. The Push button start is something I wanted in my next new car for a while. If it is available in a car I want it. If it were not available all together in that model I'd think differently. I mean, if the model comes with Comfort Access, or as Toyota/Lexus calls it Smart Access why wouldn't you not want it? The push button start is something I can't retrofit myself at a later date, so it needs to have it if available.

The Avalon is a really nice car, but there are other cars out there that I like as well. Like I said, I've compromised too much in the past, so I decided if/when I get a new car I'll have it my way. We will wait to see how the new 09 RX350 is. If it offers what I want we might get that car. If not, I almost bought the 08 Infiniti G35 Sedan with sports package and maybe I'll get that. While it doesn't offer the White/Black, it does offer my secondary exterior color choices with black interior. The BMW 335i Sedan or Coupe is also on the list. You'll notice all those cars have push start buttons. That is one of the reasons they are on the list to begin with. It is basically this. I know what I want. If one manufacture doesn't offer what I want, I'll just go to another manufacture until I find one that meets my wants. I have no problem owning BMW, Infiniti, Lexus, and in this case the Toyota Avalon if it meet my wants and desires. If you are going to spend $30K-$50K on a car, you might as well have no regrets about it. :)

All in all, instead of asking why I as a customer would turn down a car for a lack of certain features, why don't we ask Toyota why they simply don't offer black interiors in the Limited trim but only in the Touring trim? It is not like it is a different design. It is the same car.

No, I understand what you're saying. If you're going to spend that much money on a new car, you should be able to get it how you want it. I just thought since you were willing to give up those other options, the push button start didn't seem like it would be such a big deal to give up as well.

The one thing about the Avalon that I think they should offer on the Limited is the electronic telescopic steering wheel. If they're going to offer the push button start, they might as well offer the electronic wheel as well, but yet for some odd reason, they do not. For me, having that steering wheel is a tough thing to give up, having had it now on 4 Lexus models over the past 6 years. But I would probably make the compromise for the Avalon, considering you end up getting so many other features instead.

Ultimately, it is very hard to find a car that has everything you want, so I think you must compromise here and there. I've never had push button start, so it's not a requirement for me. But if I were in the market for a new car, I would probably want it to have it as well. Though if it were a choice between the Limited (any Limited in any color combination) or a Touring with the right color combo, I personally would take the Limited hands down - more luxury, more features, top of the line model. :thumbup:

You should make a list of potential cars you would like and then an alternate list of features & requirements. Assign a number from 1-5 of how important each feature is to you. Whichever car ends up with the highest total is usually the one that is best suited for you and the one you will be happiest with. I've done this a few times and it works. Good luck.

^^^Dude, Chris knows A LOT about cars.

The problem with touchscreens and electronic sensor-buttons is that they are tricky to use except on glass-smooth roads. If the car is bouncing a little on road imperfections (and that is more and more a problem nowadays with ever-firmer suspensions and tires), you often end up skipping your finger and touching the wrong sensor, or hitting one at the wrong moment. That is why I like old-fashioned, easy-to-use, round KNOBS.

Fortunately, the Avalon's ride, despite some stiffening lately, is still on the soft side by today's standards.

I hope you don't mean touch screen NAV? I wish that the Avalon did have the touch screen option because after playing with Infiniti's NAV I find that anything driven by knobs to be .. well, harder to use! But with that I suppose comes preference. I find it easer to poke around with the NAV in my IS than with playing with NAV knobs and buttons.. Too bad the Avalon won't have it. :( That means I'll have to teach my mom how to use it!

That is definately a beautiful car. But waaaay too much silver plastic.

I hope you don't mean touch screen NAV? I wish that the Avalon did have the touch screen option because after playing with Infiniti's NAV I find that anything driven by knobs to be .. well, harder to use! But with that I suppose comes preference. I find it easer to poke around with the NAV in my IS than with playing with NAV knobs and buttons.. Too bad the Avalon won't have it. :( That means I'll have to teach my mom how to use it!
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It might be hard to have touch screen in the Avalon though because if the position of the nav screen. It is high up like where I like it, but it also is fairly deep at the top of the dash. I know I can't reach it myself unless I lean forward from my driving position. Touch screen navs need to be within arms reach for the majority of people. I know I'm a short guy, but I still don't think the majority of people would easily be able to reach the Avalon nav screen if it were touch.

It might be hard to have touch screen in the Avalon though because if the position of the nav screen. It is high up like where I like it, but it also is fairly deep at the top of the dash. I know I can't reach it myself unless I lean forward from my driving position. Touch screen navs need to be within arms reach for the majority of people. I know I'm a short guy, but I still don't think the majority of people would easily be able to reach the Avalon nav screen if it were touch.

Yup, it's similar to an S-Class in this way.

The front kinda looks like an Altima to me. Seems like there is too much silver plastic on the inside though. I like the overall roominess of the car though.

Id love to have this Avalon as a DD. I have a sweet spot for big comfortable sedans. :thumbup:

Is this Graphite leather dark enough? (as seen on Toyota.com)

http://www.toyota.com/images/vehicles/2008/avalon/gallery/interior/large/photo_1.jpg

http://www.toyota.com/images/vehicles/2008/avalon/gallery/interior/large/photo_8.jpg

Nope, not to me. Although that should be the "standard" grey interior anyway. The Light Grey really is quite light.

Excuse me for saying this, but I think this statement is a little ridiculous. You could do without all of these things, but it's the PUSH BUTTON START that is keeping you from getting the touring model? :confused: :uh:

Is turning a key just too much effort for you that you would give up the opportunity to own a great car over something like this? I understand you wanting the black interior and all, but if you can do without LED/Puddle light mirrors, no perforated leather, & no rain sending wipers, I'm sure you could live without the push button start. :rolleyes:

hehe. Once you have the Smart Key System (SmartAccess for Lexus), you won't want a car without it. Sure people complain about not having a place to keep their keys but isn't the pocket better than having the keys clang and swing around hanging by the ignition hole?