Originally derived from the previous-generation Camry, Toyota’s flagship car, the Avalon, is a 4-door sedan that has evolved into a distinctive luxury car. It’s almost like the Japanese equivalent of a Buick in terms of comfort and market positioning, but in a lot of ways is also like a bargain Lexus. In fact, the Avalon actually offers a bit more than a Lexus ES 300 for less money.

The latest generation is in its second year and is more stylish outside and more luxurious inside than the previous model — which wasn’t bad.

The Avalon is based on the Camry platform and shares its main mechanical components — a 3.0-liter V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. However, to make it roomier, both wheelbase and stance were increased.

The Avalon comes in only two trim levels XL and more upscale XLS.

Behind the wheel, the seats are very comfortable and the all-around visibility is excellent. There’s a retro-style dashboard that is well organized and features a central digital screen for navigation. The sound and climate controls are ergonomic and easy to use. Storage compartments abound with a large glove box, front door pockets, rear seatback pockets, and storage in the front and rear center armrests.

There’s also a generous amount of head and legroom with large doors all around that make getting in and out very easy.

The engine is very quiet, and wind noise is low so the cabin itself is relatively quiet. However, some road noise becomes apparent on poor-quality pavement.

The Avalon offers a large trunk, with a wide opening and a low sill, but it’s not expandable because the rear seatback cannot be folded down. However, there is a pass-through.

Under the hood, as we said, is Toyota’s workhorse 3.0-liter V6 engine married to a 4-speed automatic. It puts a very respectable 210 ponies to the pavement, and with a weight-to-power ratio of 16.4 lbs/hp, the Avalon delivers excellent acceleration and passing performance for a vehicle of this size. The automatic is very smooth but doesn’t provide much in terms of compression braking.

As far as handling goes, the front and rear-end suspension systems are fully independent, which isolates the cockpit from drivetrain noise and vibration. They are equipped with MacPherson struts and transversal triangular arms in the front and longitudinal and transversal arms in the rear. There are also stabilizer bars front and rear. This also gives the Avalon handling great predictability with very little body roll.

Four-wheel disc brakes and ABS are standard, but traction control, vehicle skid control and brake assist systems are available only on the XLS. The 4-wheel ABS brakes give the Avalon remarkably short stopping distances, with great stability and little or no fade.

On the safety front, the Avalon’s very rigid structure and front-and side-impact airbags do a good job of protecting front-seat occupants.

Whines: Although the steering is fairly quick, it is light and somewhat imprecise because of what appears to be its power over-assistance. Consequently, certain maneuvers are a bit harsh. Overall maneuverability would improve with a shorter turning radius. Maybe it’s just me, but it seemed both high and low beams provided slightly less brightness than range

Applause: As with all Toyotas, build, fit, finish and material quality is absolutely superb. Like the Solara, some fit and finish on the Avalon is reminiscent of Lexus. Gas mileage checks in a little over 20 — great for a car of this size, and insurance premiums are very reasonable when compared to other luxury cars.

Bottom Line: Built in the U.S., the 2002 Avalon is luxurious in the typically understated Japanese way. It performs very well and offers one of the best compromises between handling and comfort in a car of this size and comfortable level. As with any Toyota, resale value will be excellent and its dependability legendary. What more can you ask for?.