The front seats are firm but not hard and relatively flat. They're quite comfortable and feature power adjustments and memory functions. In addition to heated front seats, the Limited model features a fan in the seat cushion and seat back that blows cabin air through the perforated leather trim to improve comfort. Knobs for seat heating and cooling are conveniently located on the center console. The front of the driver's seat bottom is power adjustable, offering improved thigh support. And the steering column tilts and telescopes. In short, these seats will not permit any form of discomfort, no matter what the conditions. They provide an apt analogy for the entire car, a vehicle possessed of small comforts that add up to a satisfying environment to soothe the driver.
The overall impression of the Avalon interior is upmarket and high quality. The steering wheel in the Limited model is attractively trimmed in wood and leather. The Optitron instruments are elegant and technically appealing displays. Retracting lids hide controls for audio and navigation, reducing clutter. The action of the retracting covers is slow and measured, with the look and satisfying feel of high-end audio equipment. The painted silver plastic covers and panels aren't the strongest feature, however, and we wonder how good they'll look in five years.
Controls for the excellent navigation system are behind a panel in front of the shifter that folds out like an ashtray. It's an unconventional design, but it works and the controls are fairly easy to reach. The buttons used to control navigation, climate and audio are superb, big, clearly marked, illuminated and easy to operate. We recommend getting the navigation system.
This is a roomy car and its roominess extends to the back seats. Rear legroom is particularly generous with three-across seating facilitated by the totally flat floor. We rode in the rear seat, directly behind a six-foot driver, with legroom to spare. In fact, there's enough room that we could imagine the Avalon as a taxi cab. The rear seat is comfortable, and offers 10 degrees of adjustment to create five sitting positions. Reclining the backrest effectively increases headroom, so people of varying heights and sizes can find comfort.
The trunk is family sized, with a pass-through door for long gear such as skis. Wood accents, particularly on the Limited, are attractive and judiciously placed. The chrome door scuff plates on the Touring grade, particularly, are notably attractive and distinctive.
The Limited model comes with a Smart Key that eliminates the need to pull it out of your pocket or purse. To use it, just walk up to the car. At a touch, all four doors unlock. Climb in. Foot on the brake, touch the Start button and the car hums to life. No fumbling with keys.
