SLEEPER; The car so comfy that it practically reads you a bedtime story as you drive gets even more inviting.( )(Product/Service Evaluation)

Byline: MARK VAUGHN

If you are a wild-eyed demo-derby driver who likes squealin' tires, clippin' apexes and qualifying rubber at all four corners, turn the page. If, however, you just want something relaxing in which to haul your golfing buddies to the 19th hole, you have found the perfect car.

Or we should say, the more perfect car, even though The Associated Press Stylebook says "perfect'' can't be modified. The all-new 2005 Toyota Avalon is longer, wider, quieter and tighter than the car it replaces. It is also more powerful underhood, smoother in the transmission and loaded with ever more electronic helpers to soothe as you drive.

It's the coddling and soothing that probably means the most to buyers in this demographic (average age 66), so let's start there. Depending on which of the four models you choose, XL, XLS, Touring or Limited, you can get a raft of improvements.

The Avalon cabin is larger in almost every measure; the front seats can either heat or cool your keister; the rear seats recline as much as 10 degrees; the steering column adjusts seven (yes, seven) ways; a Smart Key means you don't have to take the key out to start the car-just push a button; a 12-speaker Panasonic audio system gives concert-hall sound; and even the outside rearview mirrors have electro-chromatic auto-dimming sensors. And of course, there are rain-sensing wipers, a voice-operated navigation system and dynamic laser cruise control available. There is even special "mood lighting'' on any model with a sunroof. Not all of these options are spread across all four trim levels, so scan the spec sheet carefully.

Toyota's new 3.5-liter V6 makes its debut in this car. It is similar to the 4.0-liter V6 found in the 4Runner and Tacoma, but with new heads and a shorter, freer-revving stroke. The 280 hp is 70 more than the last Avalon and 88 ponies more than the first Avalon, which debuted in 1995. The new engine is so quiet and smooth that you not only forget it's on, you forget why you got into the car to begin ...