Traction Control and VSC now optional on 06 Avalon Touring

[retired00]

You're welcome. So far, excellent. I'm very impressed. Coming out of a 2003 MB E320 which was good, but I just don't see the $20k difference to justify a new one over the Avalon. The Avalon seems quieter, equal fit and finish, a few extra gadgets and a few that it does not have, but after having the Highlander for a year the dealership is great and the Highlander is just trouble-free. I was ready for that after the MB. Nothing put me out of service, but it has had some electronic glitches requiring a few visits, and mine was one of the first in the new W211 body style with the electronic brakes and all the computers so while I expected a few wrinkles, and I also had a great dealer who's 100 miles away, I was ready for a change and a dealer who's 7 minutes away. I can't judge the handling yet since I have just a few local miles, but the Avalon does feel larger than the 7" length difference would justify and the seats are softer with less bolstering but very comfortable.

[skewe]

Originally Posted by 05Limited

I usually bypass it for the regular cruise control but a few weeks ago I tried it on a long stretch of road and then forgot I had it on. We were climbing a grade and as we came upon a car ahead of us the lazer control not only let off the gas but my wife and I both felt that it applied the brakes or downshifted the car or something to slow us down in a hurry. It gives you 3 settings for distance and I had it on the longest setting. Sure did wake up my sleepy ride.

Neat! Lots of bells and whistles get thrown into the avalon.
Not too cool if you are overtaking a car and as you prepare to accelerate behind the car, it downshifts and ease off the gas paddle