Toyota has introduced a redesigned Avalon for 2011, teaming its 268-HP V6 engine having a six-speed automatic transmission for high fuel efficiency (29 MPG EPA highway rating). Evoking a time when travel was sophisticated, elegant and comfortable, the new Avalon combines a distinctive new exterior style and a restyled interior rich with premium touch points and practical new technologies.
Growing up with Toyota
Toyota has been a consistent reliable brand to drive, with diversified top selling models including the Camry sedan, the subcompact Corolla, along with the semi-environmentally conscious gas/electric hybrid Prius. Growing up, I knew numerous families who were loyal Toyota fans as evident by the number of Corollas, Supras, and 4Runners parked on the street and in people’s driveways in my old neighborhood.
The Avalon has constantly been a solid performer, with standard V6 power, plenty of interior space along with a reputation for reliability. Early Avalons were often criticized for their humdrum style, especially the first-generation model.
At first glance the redesigned Avalon still looks too conservative and not all that various from the old vehicle. Even so, look closer, and you’ll notice a lot has changed, from the a lot more streamlined headlights to the smoother-looking front grille. The interior is even cleaner and looks far more high-end with tasteful wood accents on the doors, steering wheel and center stack. Additional touches such as the navigation system with backup camera and heated and cooled seats were nice additions over the outgoing model.
Driving Impressions
Approach the Avalon Limited with the key fob in your pocket as well as the driver’s door unlocks practically silently. The door handles are thick, and they open weighty slabs of steel that feel vacuum-sealed to the vehicle. There’s not a lot shape to the front seats, but all the controls are logically arrayed - including 14 switches or knobs to operate the navigation and sound systems, and 10 buttons integrated into the steering wheel.
Developed and built with American roads in mind, the Toyota Avalon is big, stable and powerful. A 3.5-liter V6 pumps out 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard. The front-drive Avalon is based on a heavily modified version of the previous-generation Camry chassis.
Its ubiquity might define it as ordinary, but this mixture of engine and transmission is so buttery smooth that its gears could well be lubricated by cholesterol. Throw inside the thick sound-insulation package and also the result is really a suitably potent drivetrain that operates in virtual silence with shifts you practically need a stethoscope to detect.
You’ll find three trim levels: XL, XLS and Limited. Even the base XL comes loaded with regular equipment. The XLS is more upscale, with premium functions including a moonroof and a six-CD changer. The leather-lined Limited serves as the model’s top-of-the-line trim.
The Limited trim handles adequately, but the Avalon should not be mistaken for a sport sedan. It is really a full-size car with qualities that lean toward comfort over athleticism. Downsides to the Avalon are couple of. Primary complaints concern the navigation display which usually returns to its default screen and doesn’t have a “night” mode when ambient light is low. Additionally, the Avalon possesses a slightly dull driving demeanor that will lull you into a medical coma.
Notably, the Avalon has matured gracefully over the years and has excellent appeal to the loyal Toyota fan who seeks comfort in familiarity. The V6 supplies plenty of power off the line, but what sticks out probably the most is how smooth and quiet the vehicle drives. It’s ideal for a lengthy road trip, with a lot of passenger room along with a good-size trunk. With an aging baby-boomer generation seeking comfort and functionality over style and flash, the 2011 Avalon is ideal for staying within your comfort zone.