As Toyota's expansion idea drawn from mid-size Camry, the full-size Avalon sedan provides more of every asset inherent in Camry -- more room, more comforts, more security, even more power. With seats for as many as six riders inside and a big back seat with plenty of legroom, the Kentucky-built sedan expands the structure of Camry and shares some components, including a V6 engine. In Avalon the 3.0-liter V6 rises to 210 hp. Avalon for 2003 gains refinements inside and out, and carries more standard equipment but for price points identical to the 2002 models. Exterior changes show a new grille inset with chrome bars and a revamped bumper that holds new foglamps. New stacked taillamps in the rear contain red and clear lenses trimmed with chrome. Cabin enhancements bring a new leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood-grain accents on the premium grade XLS and optional perforated leather trim for Avalon's base XL. New equipment ranges from a standard air filtration system on XL to rain-sensing windshield wipers and driver-side electrochromic mirror on XLS plus the option of a DVD-based navigation system.
