2017 Toyota Avalon

Overview

The Toyota Avalon has been serving upscale accommodations since the 1995 model year. Today, it is still one of the best choices in this class, if you like your cars as comfortable as an old pair of shoes. Its optional—and segment-exclusive—hybrid powertrain sips fuel, its cabin is well-built and spacious, and a suite of active safety features is standard. The driving experience won’t pique the interest of enthusiasts, though, and there are a few quibbles that hold the Avalon back from platinum status.

What's New for 2017?

The Avalon marches into 2017 with no changes. The big Toyota sedan received a freshening in 2016 that included updated front-end styling, a revised suspension, the introduction of active safety features, and the addition of a new trim level, XLE Plus.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• XLE: $34,195
• XLE Plus: $35,945
• XLE Premium: $37,395
• Touring: $38,595
• Limited: $41,995

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Toyota Avalon’s 268-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine is gutsy and smooth, and its hybrid powertrain is an efficient option. Its transmissions, a sleepy six-speed automatic or a syrupy continuously variable automatic (CVT), are the only spoilers. The V-6 provides plenty of oomph, and its delivery is linear. While the Avalon is no supercar, acceleration is more than appropriate for a vehicle this size. The Avalon’s claim to fame is its optional hybrid powertrain, which combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a pair of electric motors, and the CVT to achieve fantastic EPA ratings. Authoritative V-6 power, a Lexus-like ride, and composed handling give the Avalon the driving dynamics we appreciate. Its below-average braking performance and unhurried hybrid acceleration cost it a few competency points here. The Avalon drives like a large car because it is a large car, so it is easily out-handled by sportier rivals, such as the Nissan Maxima SR.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Avalon’s roomy back seat, handsome but subtle interior design, and good outward visibility make it a comfortable and agreeable daily driver. It’s just a few plastic surfaces away from exceptional. Toyota didn’t cut costs when it came to the nicely sculpted dashboard, which is classily stitched and has a handsome textured surround for the infotainment screen. Seat comfort and driving position are decent, and a simple gauge cluster faces the driver. Getting in and out of the cabin is easy, although rear-seat passengers will need to be mindful of the sloping roofline. Small-item storage bins and trunk volume make the Avalon class-competitive as a family car, but its lack of a folding rear seat reduces cargo capacity.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Toyota’s Entune infotainment system is simple and intuitive. The fact that navigation isn’t standard gives rivals such as the Nissan Maxima a leg up over the Avalon. A standard 7.0-inch touchscreen is set into a textured surround with redundant buttons. Navigation is available on XLE Premium, Touring, and Limited trims, but lower-level models have an app called Scout GPS Link that broadcasts directions from a compatible smartphone to the Entune screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available, which is a negative in this connected, choose-your-own-music world.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

For more information about the Toyota Avalon’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.