The Toyota Avalon stood as Toyota’s flagship sedan for nearly three decades before its discontinuation was announced, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the full-size sedan segment. While production ended in August 2022, the final generation of this beloved sedan continues to represent one of the finest examples of automotive refinement and engineering excellence.
The End of an Era: Understanding the Avalon’s Discontinuation
Toyota officially discontinued the Avalon after the 2022 model year, marking the end of an impressive 28-year production run. The decision reflected changing consumer preferences as buyers increasingly gravitated toward SUVs and crossovers rather than traditional sedans. Toyota has since welcomed the Crown as the spiritual successor, though the Avalon’s unique character remains unmatched.
Final Generation Excellence: 2019-2022 Model Overview
Exterior Design and Presence
The final generation Avalon showcased Toyota’s commitment to bold design language. The updated model featured 19-inch machine-finished black alloy wheels and a much more aggressive grille at the front with redesigned headlight clusters. The sedan’s flowing lines and meticulously crafted details created a commanding road presence that balanced elegance with contemporary sportiness.
Powerful Performance Options
V6 Engine Excellence
Under the hood, the Avalon continued to feature its 3.5-liter V6 engine which produces 301 bhp of power and 362 Nm of peak torque. The powerplant comes mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration that hustles the Avalon from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds.
Hybrid Innovation
For efficiency-minded drivers, the Avalon Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine coupled with two electrical motors for a combined system output of 215 hp. While less powerful than the V6, the hybrid achieved EPA-estimated mileage of up to 43/44 mpg, making it an excellent choice for long-distance commuting.
Interior Luxury and Comfort
Premium Materials and Craftsmanship
The interiors now featured more attractive materials throughout the cabin, with Toyota focusing on creating an upscale environment that rivaled luxury competitors. A broad waterfall-style center stack separated the driver and front passenger, showcasing handsome switchgear and an easy-to-reach touchscreen.
Spacious Accommodations
Passenger room was plentiful both up front and in the rear, with back cabin space offering up to 37.5 inches of headroom (without the moonroof installed) and 40.3 inches of legroom. This generous space allocation made the Avalon particularly appealing for families and professionals who prioritized comfort during longer journeys.
Technology and Safety Features
Advanced Safety Suite
All Avalon sedans came with tech features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, as well as driver-assistance amenities, such as blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. With Toyota’s Safety Sense technology, the Avalon offered a suite of safety features designed to protect passengers on the road.
Infotainment Excellence
Equipped with a state-of-the-art multimedia system, the Avalon ensured connectivity and entertainment during travels. The intuitive interface and premium audio system created an engaging driving experience that kept pace with modern expectations.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Traditional V6 Performance
With the gas-only Avalon, the EPA estimated mileage of up to 22/32 mpg city/highway. During independent testing, highway fuel-economy testing recorded 34 mpg with both the V-6, demonstrating impressive efficiency for a full-size sedan with substantial power.
Hybrid Leadership
As compared to its rivals in the segment which included Kia Cadenza, Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, and Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon offered the best in segment fuel economy, particularly with the hybrid variant that achieved exceptional efficiency without sacrificing interior space or comfort.
Safety Ratings and Reliability
Outstanding Safety Performance
The Avalon executed well in crash examinations, nabbing a first-class total safety rating from the NHTSA. It additionally gained Good ratings in all crash examinations from the IIHS, establishing itself as one of the safest vehicles in its class.
Toyota’s Reliability Legacy
The Avalon maintained Toyota’s reputation for dependability throughout its production run. Known for its durability, the Toyota Avalon continued to uphold the brand’s reputation for reliability, with regular maintenance allowing owners to expect optimal performance for years.
Market Position and Value Proposition
Competitive Pricing Structure
Toyota Avalon prices ranged from $35,650 for the base variant XLE and went up to $42,950 for the top-spec variant. This positioning placed the Avalon competitively against other full-size sedans while offering superior reliability and efficiency.
Legacy and Impact
The Toyota Avalon served as the Japanese automaker’s full-size sedan since its 1994 launch on the US market, becoming as much an American institution as the Camry. Its nearly three-decade run demonstrated Toyota’s ability to adapt and refine a successful formula while maintaining core values of reliability and comfort.
Toyota Avalon Specifications Table
| Specification | V6 Engine | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L I4 + Electric Motors |
| Horsepower | 301 hp | 215 hp (combined) |
| Torque | 267 lb-ft | N/A |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | CVT |
| 0-60 mph | 6.0 seconds | ~7.8 seconds |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 22/32 mpg | 43/44 mpg |
| Price Range | $35,650-$42,950 | Included in range |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Toyota Avalon still in production? A: No, Toyota discontinued the Avalon after the 2022 model year, replacing it with the Crown sedan.
Q: What was the most fuel-efficient Avalon variant? A: The Avalon Hybrid achieved up to 43/44 mpg city/highway, making it the most efficient option.
Q: How does the Avalon compare to the Toyota Crown? A: The Crown serves as the Avalon’s spiritual successor, offering hybrid-only powertrains and a more luxurious positioning.