1996 Toyota Avalon XLS review from North America

Brakes, brakes, brakes!! I have already replaced all four brakes twice since taking ownership three years ago. And the intermittent "clicking" noise I hear from them is rather bothersome.

The sound system is rather weak. I live in a hilly area and sometimes have difficulty pulling stations in that are more than 15 miles away.

Speakers seem to fade in and out while listening to CDs.

CD changer (trunk-mount) takes a long time to warm up and will not play in cold weather.

Also, the power antenna frequently gets stuck in its housing (or at half-mast) on frosty mornings.

Nice highway cruiser! Loves to travel at speeds over 70mph!!

Cavernous trunk! And a full-size spare under it!!!

Fit and finish of the interior is first-class! Leather still feels, smells and looks new!

This car has a velvety smooth ride, yet handles well.

But wind noise is rather intrusive at highway speeds.

Remarkably roomy! Our friends and family are always telling us how much they love riding in our car... maybe THAT'S why we always seem to drive everywhere!!!

No lumbar support for either front seat... leads to fatigue and backache on long trips (my car has the split bench).

Typical Toyota body problems! Body panels seem to lack integrity. My car dents rather easily and has numerous small rust spots just beginning in various places. Paint chips and scratches and seem to occur too easily.