2012 Toyota Avalon

Fine balance of softness, composure.

...assembly quality, materials no longer easily outpace those of like-priced rivals.

It's no longer the hands-down class leader in refinement, room, or interior ambiance.

...simulated panic stops induced noticeable nosedive.

Touring uses same tires as other models, but firmer suspension registers some pavement imperfections other Avalons ignore.

The Avalon interior is remarkably clean and uncluttered.

Rear legroom is particularly generous with three-across seating facilitated by elimination of the rear hump.

We quickly discovered the Avalon is the kind of car that will never annoy you, a car best characterized by the absence of noise, vibration or harshness.

...with just a few well-defined design strokes, the new Avalon manages to project more character, more contemporary energy than ever before.

...the newest model offers as many surprises as watching reruns of the Weather Channel.

Any more airbags and the Avalon could be used as a flotation device.

It's a handsome car even if it's not particularly memorable - more Lyle Waggoner than Robert Redford.

The engine is spooky smooth, velvety in its power delivery, and dang near silent in operation while the transmission's ratios seem perfectly chosen.

The Avalon ultimately drives a lot like, well, a Lexus ES330... only bigger and more powerful.

...the V6 can barely be heard while idling and is glassy-smooth across the rev band.