2008 Avalon Touring

[confuzzled]

In a couple of months I will be in the market for a 2008 / 2009 Avalon ( If I don't change my mind and go with a used Lexus ES350 instead. ) As I am not test driving yet I am looking at ads on line and am curious about the Avalon Touring Model and would appreciate any insights on this model compared to the XLS and Limited models. I am most interested in the difference in ride quality and if the Touring's somewhat stiffer suspention affects the car's ability to absorb rough or broken pavement on city streets. I know that the XLS and Limited can easily smooth this type of road out but many cars that have a bit better handling often give up abit in terms compliance or ride quality.......Any thoughts on this?

[pmesfun]

Well, it doesn't sag with multiple people in the back like the other trims. Also, the suspension, is more tight, doesn't float up and down/around going over bumps. Nothing uncomfortable though. IMO I wouldn't get the Lexus everything is more expensive for even the simple things, i.e. oil change for the avalon is about $40+ comparing to the es350 is almost $70+. Unless you do your own maintenance.

edit:
for comparision: I was quoted 835 for a complete timing belt job at toyota on my '99 avalon, while my friend with a '00 es300 was quoted 1k+ at Lexus for the same exact job. Same engines, platform, everything.

[Tom in Tacoma]

I've back-to-back test driven both the Touring and the Limited. Plus, I've rented Touring editions on a couple occasions. Quite honestly - there's not enough difference between the two suspensions to make that the deciding factor for me. I would concentrate on the other decision factors that influence which car we buy; interior features, color, wheels, overall condition, how many miles, etc..

[confuzzled]

Thanks for the insights. I have seen a few fairly priced Touring models and have wondered about the ride and didn't know about the rear end squat when carrying people. Also I guess the oil change cost shouldn't be a surprise but when I actually hear what the actual cost difference is, it does make me wince and think twice about the possible related costs of owning a ES350. I really like the idea of the Touring's slightly tighter suspension (As long as it doesn't take away from the Avalon's ride quality.) but the other maybe larger trade off takes place in the interior, that is somewhat toned down. It's too bad that the interior is also different (I mean the wood trim gone.). I guess I will have to consider this as I look and test drive cars in the near future.

[avytouring]

i own a touring model it certainly rides better on mountian roads and twisties. the black leather certainly is more appealing than light color and wood trim , moreover you can always get a wood trim insert ordered no biggie.

the 17 inch wheels with a gunemetal look , lipspoiler make this avalon a sharper looking car. If you want a sofa ride then id say opt for xl, xls or limited (has cooled seats that is if you live in desert area or humid south east)

[dev]

+1 for the Touring. If your focus is "compliance or ride quality" try a Lexus GS350, this was my other choice