MSRP: $27,845 - $35,185
Invoice: $25,156 - $31,312
MPG: 19 City / 28 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:9.0
Performance:8.6
Exterior:7.8
Interior:9.0
Safety:9.9
Reliability:8.0
Research we analyzed for this review
Pros and Cons

 Roomy high-quality cabin

  • Impressive V6 passing power for a large car
  • Good reliability ratings and resale values
  • Highest MPG rating in its class
  •  With options, price can rival that of luxury cars
  • Rear seats don't fold, limiting cargo space

Prices

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Toyota Avalon - What the Auto Press Says

The Toyota Avalon wins the U.S. News Best Car for the Money Award in the large car class in recognition of its low long-term cost of ownership and reasonable purchase price.  It also boasts a smooth ride and an interior that wouldn't be out of place in a luxury car.

For those concerned with comfort over speed, the Toyota Avalon can feel like a luxury car. Its upscale interior and quiet, well-cushioned ride wouldn't be out of place in the Lexus lineup.  Its driving dynamics, however, would -- it's not the sportiest ride in its class.  The Avalon's up-front purchase price is higher than some rivals, but it offers a lot for the money -- and is more reliable and fuel-efficient than many competitors, allowing buyers to recoup some of that cost.  

If it's the Avalon's near-luxury interior that you're interested in, we'd suggest that you also test drive to Hyundai Genesis.  That car similarly offers an interior that wouldn't be out of place in a Lexus, and a price under $40,000.  But, with rear wheel drive and an available V8, it outperforms the Avalon.  But the Avalon sits atop our large car list -- there may not be a better fit for your needs.

For 2009, The Avalon comes in three trim levels -- XL, XLS and Limited. Several formerly optional pieces of safety tech are now standard on all Avalons - including active front headrest, brake assist, traction control and stability control. 

Come check out this month's Best Toyota Deals where we have done the research to get you the best offer.

  • "This car is not for everyone.  It's certainly not caviar, but nowadays meat and potatoes seem to be on a lot more people's menu. If you're hungry, you don't need to be wowed, you need to eat. And the Avalon offers a very satisfying meal." -- Detroit News
  • "Fine V6 powertrain, solid feel, cushy ride, and Toyota's strong track record for resale value make this a top competitor in its class."  -- Consumer Guide
  • "Consider that the least expensive Lexus, the ES 300, starts just below $33,000, without the space, power, and even some of the amenities of the comparably priced Avalon." -- BusinessWeek
  • ""The Avalon is a good car to go unnoticed in. The styling and the driving dynamics won't get anyone too excited, but that's okay for many folks." -- Car and Driver
  • "Unless you are interested in the status the nameplate brings, I'm not sure why the 2005 Lexus LS430 is worth $23,000 more than this Toyota Avalon." -- Orlando Sentinel
  • "Toyota's flagship sedan is sleek, roomy and a pleasure to drive. It comes loaded with covered compartments and plugs for all your technology. It offers luxury and style at a not-unattainable price." -- Mother Proof

Avalon Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)

The 2008 Toyota Avalon offers only a V6 engine, but one nearly as powerful as the V8s many competitors sell.  U.S. News says the Avalon "can be ferocious if encouraged," and "is sturdy and substantial at cruising speeds, yet limber in parking lots and other tight spaces." Read More

Avalon Exterior - 7.8 (Good)

The Toyota Avalon has one of the more nondescript looks in teh automotive world -- some reviewers find it forgettable.  Others, like BusinessWeek, say that the car "looks substantial and elegant," adding that it has "crisp lines and edges, giving it a...distinctive, modern look."  Read More

Avalon Interior - 9.0 (Excellent)

Inside is where the Toyota Avalon shines.  Many reviewers say its comfortable, spacious cabin calls to mind a more expensive luxury car.  Newsday is just one of many to suggest that  "The Avalon's new interior is worthy of that in any Lexus." Read More

Avalon Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

 The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the Avalon a "Top Safety Pick" for its strong crash test scores.  The car also earns five of five stars in every government crash test. Read More

Avalon Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2009 Toyota Avalon reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Toyota provides a three-year or 36,000-mile new vehicle warranty for all Avalons. Read More

Review Last Updated: 10/6/09