Toyota Avalon

Overview: Is the Toyota Avalon a Good Full-Size Sedan?

The Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan that has been a part of Toyota's lineup since 1995. Known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliability, the Avalon appeals to buyers seeking a well-equipped and dependable large car. This overview covers the more recent Avalon generations:

• Toyota Avalon third generation: 2005-2012
• Toyota Avalon fourth generation: 2013-2018
• Toyota Avalon fifth generation: 2019-2022

Toyota discontinued the Avalon after the 2022 model year. The Avalon competes with other full-size sedans like the Chevrolet Impala, Kia Cadenza, and its corporate cousin, the Lexus ES.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Toyota Avalon cars for sale.

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Related: Here Are The Toyota Avalon Years To Avoid and What's the best year for used Toyota Avalons?

Key Features

The Toyota Avalon offers:

• Full-size sedan body style
• Front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive (fifth generation)
• V6 and hybrid powertrain options
• Automatic transmission (V6) or continuously variable transmission/CVT (hybrid)

Trims

The Toyota Avalon is available in several trim levels, which have changed between generations. Recent versions include XLE, XSE, TRD, Limited, and Touring trims. The base XLE trim comes well-equipped with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims add amenities such as leather seating, a JBL premium audio system, and a moonroof. The TRD trim, introduced in the fifth generation, offers sportier styling and performance upgrades.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Toyota Avalon interior is spacious and well-crafted, with ample legroom and headroom in both rows. Higher trims feature premium materials like perforated leather upholstery and genuine wood accents. Newer Avalons have a user-friendly infotainment system with available features like a larger touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Trunk space is abundant, putting smaller sedans to shame.

Review: How Long Do Toyota Avalons Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

How It Drives

Horsepower from the 3.5-liter V6 ranges from 268 to 301, depending on the model year, giving the Avalon ample get-up-and-go. The four-cylinder hybrid powertrain trades performance for fuel economy—up to 44 mpg, which is impressive for a large car. Otherwise, the Avalon promises a comfortable and composed ride that easily absorbs road imperfections.

Safety

The fourth and fifth Toyota Avalon generations received a top five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The third generation did equally well in specific front and side-impact crash tests.

Reviews

The Toyota Avalon's average consumer ratings on Kelley Blue Book decline with each successive generation: 4.7/5 for the third generation, 4.4 for the fourth generation, and 4.1 for the fifth generation. Nonetheless, all models are ranked high for quality, value, and reliability.

Learn More: 7 Great Toyota Avalon Competitors: Which Alternatives Stack Up

FAQs

How long will a Toyota Avalon Hybrid battery last?

The Toyota Avalon Hybrid's battery is designed to last the vehicle's life, with many owners reporting battery life exceeding 200,000 miles. Toyota offers an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the hybrid battery, providing peace of mind for long-term ownership. Proper maintenance and care can help extend the life of the hybrid battery and ensure optimal performance.

What are the major problems with the Toyota Avalon?

The Toyota Avalon is generally reliable, with few significant problems or trouble patterns reported across generations. The V6 and hybrid powertrains are proven. Some owners have noted minor issues such as occasional rattles or squeaks in the interior or premature wear of certain components like brake pads or tires. However, these issues are not widespread and are often easily addressed through regular maintenance and repairs.

Which car is better, the Toyota Avalon or the Honda Accord?

The Toyota Avalon and Honda Accord are well-regarded sedans but cater to slightly different markets. The Avalon is a full-size sedan, offering more interior space and afocusingon comfort and refinement. The Accord, a midsize sedan, is known for its balanced combination of comfort, performance, and efficiency. Individual buyers will have to determine which vehicle better meets their preferences, budgets, and needs. The same considerations apply in a Toyota Avalon vs Camry match-up.

What is the difference between the Toyota Avalon XLE and the Toyota Avalon Limited?

The Toyota Avalon XLE and Limited are two distinct trims, with the Limited being the more luxurious and feature-rich option. The Limited trim adds several premium features not found on the XLE, such as perforated leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium JBL audio system, and a larger touchscreen display. The Limited trim also includes additional safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which are optional on the XLE (depending on the model year).

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