Introduced early in 2005 as a 2006 model, Avalon is a "domestic full-size sedan" built by the Japanese manufacturer that most wants to be seen as being North American. To a large and roomy sedan, add the usual Toyota attributes like build quality and refinement -- and then add another you may not always expect from Toyota: muscular performance from a 3.5-litre, 268-hp V6 that is also remarkably fuel-efficient for its size. For 2007, Toyota has added standard stability control to a lavish amenities list that already includes automatic dual-zone climate control, leather, power driver and passenger seats, steering wheel-mounted audio and HVAC controls, a power moonroof, and a 9-speaker AM/FM/CD radio with an in-dash 6-disc changer.

Maybe just the best value in a sedan on the planet

The little doors hiding the audio and LCD screens are ugly when open