2002 Toyota Avalon reviews and buying guide.

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2002 Toyota Avalon

Toyota’s highest end sedan, the 2002 Toyota Avalon, is not scheduled for any major changes for the year 2002, and will basically be a continuation of the existing two models, the Avalon XL Sedan and the Avalon XLS Sedan. Practical in appearance, the Toyota Avalon sedans handle smoothly and efficiently, with automatic shifting barely felt even while accelerating quickly. Any vibrations felt at all are next to nothing, and the vehicle reacts calmly and serenely when put to braking and acceleration tests, as well as over various road conditions.

The entry level Toyota Avalon XL Sedan is built with a 3.0-litre 24-valve DOHC VVT-i six-cylinder engine with 210 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port fuel injection system, brakes are ventilated front disc and solid rear disc, and steering is engine speed-sensing variable-assist rack and pinion. The smooth ride originates from the MacPherson strut front suspension with offset spring and stabilizer bar and dual-link independent MacPherson strut rear suspension also with offset coil springs and stabilizer bar. Each vehicle is equipped with all-season SBR tires and a full-size spare, and the fuel economy rating is estimated at 21/29 (city/hwy).

In the safety department, each Toyota Avalon XL Sedan goes above and beyond the basics to include ABS brakes for maximum control, a driver depowered air bag, passenger depowered air bag, side impact air bags, and both front and rear head restraints. The rear doors have been equipped with child safety locks, the trunk has an internal release handle, and each seating position features a three-point seatbelt. There are anchors for up to three child seats.

The Avalon XL Sedan is graced with numerous luxuries and conveniences, including such standards as air conditioning, cruise control, power door locks, dual power mirrors, power windows, and an AM/FM stereo with CD player and six speakers. Among the numerous options are a moonroof/sunroof, and a keyless entry system and smooth leather seating are available as packages. The front seating is available with either bucket seats for a total of five passengers, or a power front bench seat to accommodate six passengers. Vehicles with the front bench seat feature a center lap belt and a fold-down center armrest with console. For aesthetic effect, the mirrors, bumpers, and body side moldings are all color-keyed.

Base invoice price: $23,00
Base list price: $25,845

The second model, the Toyota Avalon XLS Sedan, is a reflection of the fine engine specifications, safety, and luxury features of the base package sedan. Additionally, Toyota has included front fog lights for negotiating poor visibility conditions, and traction control has been made available as an option. A keyless entry system also becomes a standard feature, and the sound system has been upgraded to a three-in-one ETR/cassette with CD player with seven speakers and subwoofer. An information display with outside temperature, time, date, compass and other indicators and warning lights is embedded in the dash. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, and interior wood-grain accents spruce up the interior with a touch of elegance. The Toyota Avalon XLS Sedan also offers either the front bucket seats or power front bench seat with center console.

Base invoice price: $26,756
Base list price: $30,405