2000 Toyota Avalon Vxi review from Australia and New Zealand

Nothing yet.

As soon as I sat in the car I felt right at home. The interior seemed spacious, unlike the encapsulated feeling I got in other modern vehicles. While the interior colors are on the bland side the quality and sumptuousness of the upholstery and fittings have an undeniable luxury feel.

I arrived at the right time for a change, Toyota were clearing Y2000 built vehicles and the dealer was successful talking me into a much more luxurious model than I intended to buy at little more than the current year's base model price. I believe I got an excellent bargain especially as it came with 5 years warranty as well.

It was only when I took delivery that I fully appreciated what a terrific vehicle I had purchased. It is superbly comfortable and very quiet. Despite the limousine ride, the car is very controllable as I discovered when someone suddenly pulled out in front of me.

I am impressed with the obvious care that has gone into the design of every convenience and fitting. The climate controlled air conditioning is superb, the compact disc player/radio has very good sound quality, even resumes compact discs at the position it was at when the ignition was switched off. The foot operated park brake works well as do the electric seats. You don't need to have the key in the ignition for the electric windows to work. The four reading lights are great.

The exterior styling, finish and the large and bright headlights make the car look very distinctive. The windows are quite shallow, a boon in the hot Australian climate yet visibility is excellent.

The only downer I can see is the economy is just mediocre, a small price to pay for luxury motoring.