The Toyota Avalon sedan was redesigned for 2019, and it’s now nimbler, has a plusher ride, and more stylish and fuel-efficient. We tested the hybrid version, which gets an impressive 42 mpg overall, a commendable achievement for such a large car.
All told, the latest Avalon is a sensible alternative to higher-priced luxury cars. The hybrid powertrain accelerates immediately from a stop because of its electric assist. But merging into traffic and passing maneuvers cause the engine to sound like it’s working hard, and those revs create a coarse soundtrack.
The V6 engine in the nonhybrid version delivers more power effortlessly (and with a more pleasant sound) thanks in part to its eight-speed transmission, which makes quick, smooth shifts.
It didn’t take us long to appreciate the plush ride and newfound agility. The new Avalon takes sharp turns more eagerly than the stodgy previous-generation sedan.
The sedan’s large doors open wide, but the Avalon’s low roof and floor mean that getting in and out requires quite a bit of ducking from passengers. This might alienate loyal Avalon customers used to a more upright sedan.
The spacious, richly furnished cabin has an upscale feel thanks to soft materials with intricate stitching and attractive open-pore wood trim. The front seats are wide and supportive. Limited trim versions get a four-way lumbar adjustment.
The rear seat has generous legroom, but our taller testers had limited headroom. High-end trims now get heated rear seats and two USB ports for the rear passengers.
The controls are easy to use and master, although the touch screen can be a reach for tall drivers who sit further back. The roomy, user-friendly cabin is reason enough to opt for the Avalon over a Lexus model.
The Avalon comes with the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) suite of advanced safety systems and driver assist, which includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are standard.
The Avalon has become a more sophisticated, luxurious large sedan that could give some more expensive nameplates a run for their money if buyers are willing to look past the brand.