Toyota likes to refer to its Avalon as a premium midsize sedan, which really doesn't do it justice in our view. It's actually a full-size cruiser offering plenty of standard comforts and smooth, silent running.
All models wear revised front lighting and a new grille. Touring editions get specific suspension tuning, and there's a new trim level known as XLE Plus.
The front-drive Avalon is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 268 horsepower, matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and selectable driving modes. Ride quality and interior room are a definite notch above your typical family sedan. We continue to be impressed by the Avalon's 24 mpg in combined driving and ability to hit 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
The Avalon is available in three XLE versions, plus top-shelf limited trim:
Comes standard with leather upholstery, heated power front seats, a rearview camera, keyless ignition, Bluetooth phone and audio, automatic headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an eight-speaker sound system with a smartphone navigation app.
Adds a sunroof and universal garage door opener.
Gets an upgraded infotainment system with navigation, a full suite of smartphone apps, and nine audio speakers. Other extras include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, keyless entry for the rear doors, and wireless phone charging.
Like the Premium, but with a firmer suspension, driver lumbar adjustments, a distinctive grille, and standard 18-inch wheels (versus 17s on the others).
Tops off the Avalon with a slew of premium features such as upgraded leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a hard drive-based navigation system, tri-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, ambient interior lighting, a power rear sunshade, and an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system. Optional on the Limited is the Toyota Safety Sense-P system with lane keeping assist, collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, and automatic high beams.
The XLEs are designed to provide a lot of car for the money, and they certainly succeed in that regard. The Touring sub-trim, however, is on the pricey side, which is to be expected for what is essentially a niche vehicle. The Limited is a luxury sedan without the luxury badging, which makes it a bargain in its own right.
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