For someone who wants to make a big statement in a full-size sedan, without a luxury car payout, Toyota has an answer. Toyota's flagship sedan, the full-size Avalon, has plenty of stretch room for the truly tall and plenty of upscale amenities for the discerning.

Avalon comes in four iterations: Standard XL, sporty Touring, well-equipped XLS and premium Limited editions. For 2007, the Avalon is essentially a carry-over of its 2005 revision, although it adds a tire pressure monitor as standard equipment for all trim levels and a slight price increase from a year ago. The Touring level also gains a navigation system as an option.

Pricing ranges from $26,875 for the base XL model to $34,065 for the top-line Limited before options. For that, one gets a range of goodies all the way up to touch screen nav system (under a broad, glare-reducing console eyebrow), directional lighted side view mirrors with puddle lamps, and retractable rear window sun shade.

The Avalon comes with one powerplant configuration for all models, a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 268-horsepower and 248-lb.-ft. of peak torque thanks to intelligent variable valve timing that also helps improve fuel economy ratings (22 city/31 highway). Toyota cites the Avalon's zero-to-60 mph speed of 6.6 seconds. A five-speed automatic has on-demand manual function, presumably to take advantage of that vehicle launching torque, although the Avalon shines for its comfort capability during long drives.

Avalon's body structure was strengthened to enhance safety features that include side curtain, side mounted front seat and driver's knee airbags. Electronic brake force distribution adjusts braking at each wheel to keep control during hard braking.

Visually, the Avalon doesn't show off, but cruises into the spotlight with a balance of subtle exterior design cues and an understated elegant feel. Inside, a center compartment cover keeps the console appearance neat. Rear seat passengers should appreciate the flat rear floor for the mid-seat passenger and rear seats that decline as much as 10 degrees. The driver gets tilt and telescoping steering column.