Toyota Avalon 2012 Review

Quick Review

As a full size sedan, the Toyota Avalon is a solid choice. However, it’s expensive within its segment and its more modern competitors could be more appealing.

The 2012 Toyota Avalon is unchanged from last year’s major overhaul. The interior is upscale and very inviting, with metal and wood giving a luxury feel. The seats are big and comfortable, and there’s leg room to spare – even by full size sedan standards. The back seats recline, making long journeys comfortable, but they don’t fold down – making the boot space inflexible.

The Avalon excels on the open road. The V6 engine is smooth with plenty of power, and the ride copes with bumps easily. However, throw in a few bends and you’ll see the Avalon’s weaknesses. This is not a nimble car, and you might feel a bit disconnected when driving it. It also generates more road noise than some of its big rivals. 

The 3.5L V6 offers good power and acceleration, doing 0-100km/h in 7.2 seconds – a respectable time for such a big car. It also manages 9.0L / 100 Km making it one of the more efficient full size sedans available. 

There are very able competitors in the shape of the improved Chrysler 300, the technologically advanced Ford Taurus and the Hyundai Genesis. In the face of this opposition, the Avalon seems a bit dull and forgettable due to its sensible driving style. The Avalon base model is also more expensive than any of its rivals.

As a full size sedan, the Toyota Avalon fulfills most of what any full size sedan user will look for. However, it’s worth looking at the competitors as well. 

Check Out

- Toyota Avalon Prices and Specs