The Toyota Avalon is a large sedan, the apex model in this brand’s car portfolio. Introduced for the 1995 model year, the Avalon originally targeted the big Buick and Mercury sedans of that day. Today, the Avalon soldiers on for its final year, as Toyota plans to cancel it for the U.S. market.
Highlights of the Toyota Avalon
Generation after generation, the Toyota Avalon has stood its ground in a tough segment. Slowly, however, its competitors faded away, as manufacturers opted for utility vehicles. In its later years, the standard gas-powered Avalon was joined by the Avalon Hybrid. Together, they supply a formidable 1-2 punch in the segment.
We won’t look at the hybrid as we dissect this final gas model. Prices range from just over $35,000 to just under $45,000. The hybrid is priced modestly higher, but it gets far better fuel economy than the V6 model.
All gas models are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Power routes to the front wheels utilizing an 8-speed automatic transmission.
By the Trims
Toyota offers the 2022 Avalon in three trims: XLE, Touring, and Limited. The top two trims are priced nearly the same as the Touring takes a sporty direction, while the Limited’s mission is premium.
Toyota Avalon XLE
One of the nice features of the Toyota Avalon is that the standard model comes very well equipped. The only upgrade is a $1000 moonroof and a $1720 package that brings in a 14 speaker JBL audio system with navigation.
Toyota outfits the XLE trim with LED headlights with automatic high beams, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Imitation leather seats, heated and power-controlled front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control are included. This model also has keyless entry with push-button start. The seats are wrapped in imitation leather.
A 9-inch color touch-screen display is standard. This trim comes with an 8-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth. Five USB ports are standard.
On the safety front, the XLE comes with standard forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Toyota Avalon Touring
With its sporty mission front and center, the Touring edition advances several blacked-out touches. These include black 19-inch wheels. An adaptive suspension system is included and supplies a more engaging ride. Also, an adaptive lighting system is included.
Inside, this trim garners a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and heated and ventilated front seats. Toyota adds a moonroof, wireless device charging, and a 14-speaker audio system. Shoppers can also opt for a $1,150 Advanced Safety Package. That package brings in front and rear parking sensors and a surround-view parking camera system.
Toyota Avalon Limited
True to its premium mission, the Limited adds many of the features found in the Touring model. However, this one rides on 18-inch alloy wheels.
Real leather upholstery is present, giving this model a handsome interior. Further, just like the Touring trim, the Advanced Safety Package is an option.
Competitive Set
The mainstream large sedan market is essentially done once the Avalon disappears. The two outliers are the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300, throwback rear-wheel-drive models based on an aged Mercedes-Benz E-Class design.
As for the Nissan Maxima, it is a flagship model too, but it is the size of the midsize Altima. Gone are models from Ford, Chevrolet, and Buick as well as retired brands including Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, and Mercury.
So Long, Farewell
Lastly, consumers should not hesitate to shop for an Avalon if that sedan is on their list. This model shares many of its components with the Toyota Camry. Moreover, the Avalon is backed by mighty Toyota, with the usual warranties in place.
2022 Toyota Avalon Specifications
| Toyota | 2022 Avalon |
|---|---|
| Segment | Large Sedan |
| Price Range | From $36,375 to $43,650 |
| Destination Charge | $1,025 |
| Engine No. 1 | 3.5-liter, V6 |
| Horsepower | 301 @ 6,600 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 267 @ 4,700 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Engine No. 2 | 2.5-liter, I4 |
| Horsepower | 176 @ 5,700 |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 163 @ 3,600 to 5,200 |
| Transmission | e-CVT |
| Seating | 5 |
| Curb Weight (pounds) | 3,570 to 3,715 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 113.0 |
| Length (inches) | 195.9 |
| Width (inches) | 72.8 |
| Height (inches) | 56.5 |
| Headroom (f,r…inches) | 38.5, 37.9 |
| Legroom (f,r…inches) | 42.1, 40.3 |
| Shoulder room (f,r…inches) | 58.3, 57.1 |
| Hip room (f,r…inches) | 55.8, 54.8 |
| Storage (bed length) | 16.09 |
| Gross vehicle weight (pounds) | NR |
| Towing (pounds) | NR |
| Payload (pounds) | NR |
| Fuel | regular |
| Fuel Tank (gallons) | 14.4 or 15.8 |
| EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) | 22/32/26 (gas); 43/44/44 (hybrid) |
| Manufacturing Plant | Georgetown, Kentucky |
Specifications supplied by the manufacturer. Compiled by Tom Keegan.
See Also — Introducing the Fourth-Generation Toyota Highlander
Photos courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc.
