First introduced as a 1994 model, the Avalon was designed as an alternative to full-size sedans such as the Ford Crown Victoria, Chevy Caprice, and Buick Roadmaster.

Now, 10 years later, the all-new 2005 Avalon has morphed into four models, each with slightly different priorities, to broaden appeal across more diverse age groups and income levels. It has always been aimed at drivers who appreciate quality and comfort, but prefer an understated way to get it.

By far the most American of any Toyota, the 2005 Avalon was designed in Newport Beach, California, engineered by the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and built in Georgetown Kentucky. Toyota gathered extensive consumer and owner body feedback before redesigning it.

This third-generation Avalon is more distinctive than before, with apparent grace and agility. It is significantly larger, with special attention paid to rear-seat passenger comfort. Horsepower has been increased by 33 percent by adding an all-new double overhead-cam V6, which is teamed with a state-of-the-art electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission.