Just as impressive as all the things you can see and feel about the redesigned 2005 Toyota Avalon is the long list of standard safety features you’ll hopefully never have to use. All models include multi-stage front airbags that match their force to the severity of the crash as well as a special knee airbag for the driver.

New, larger, torso-protecting side-impact airbags for the driver and front seat passenger are standard on all models, as are side-curtain airbags that extend the length of the cabin to shield the heads of all outboard occupants in side collisions and rollover accidents. Daytime running lights and three-point seatbelts at all five seating positions round out the list of passive safety features.

Electronic stability control, a system that uses sensors to detect and stop an impending skid before it occurs, is an option on XLS and Limited models. While the $650 price tag may sound steep, results of a recent government study have confirmed our belief that this must-have safety feature is well worth the cost.