The LS430 is a large, rear-drive sedan, powered by a 4.3-litre, dual overhead cam V8 pumping out 207kW of power and 417Nm of torque. Chief designer of the Lexus LS430, Makoto Ooshima, told American industry journal automotive News the car’s design was inspired by the Japanese bullet train as the car was tested in the same wind tunnel. The maker claims the LS430 is the most aerodynamic sedan in the world, with a drag coefficient of 0.25. (An average family sedan is 0.32.)

The 2005 Toyota Lexus LS 430 has powered door-closing system, which pulls the doors tight against the seals. The headlight beams swivel by 15 degrees left or right to follow the road according to speed and steering input and there’s a reversing camera that transmits images to a 7in screen that also displays sat-nav information. Voice recognition technology responds to about 300 commands for the navigation, audio and air-conditioning, while Bluetooth technology permits cable-free use of mobile phones and the like. A tyre pressure monitoring system is low-tech in comparison. (more…)

Driving the Toyota Avalon gives you the feeling of driving a luxury car but without paying the luxury price.  Starting at an MSRP of $32,445 for the basic package this car is an alternative to entry-level luxury cars without giving up the luxury feel.  The Toyota Avalon is a 3.5 liter V6 6-speed automatic with solid performance and great reliability.  With an EPA estimated 20/29 miles per gallon this car does well on fuel economy as well.

The standard Toyota Avalon comes equipped with a leather-trimmed driver and passenger seat; reclining rear seats; a back up camera and a power moonroof.  The Limited edition comes standard with a smart key system; heated front seats; and both the driver’s seat and outside mirrors have a memory system and there is also an 8-way power passenger seat. In both models, the interior also includes a multi-function display with information such as outside temperature, instant fuel economy, average fuel economy, distance to empty and average speed as well as trip computer information. The back seat is a 60/40 split with adjustable headrests and a center armrest with cup holders.  Both models come with wood-grain-style interior trim as well. (more…)