2021 Toyota Avalon

Though the full-size sedan class continues to shrink, Toyota is committed to bringing its best with the 2021 Toyota Avalon. Already one of the top choices after its redesign two years ago, the 2021 Avalon improves with even more variety. It adds all-wheel-drive as an option to a lineup that already includes V6, hybrid and high-performance TRD options. And regardless of the model, the Avalon will provide you with loads of space, a surprisingly engaging driving experience, plenty of comfort, and a cabin that can rival those of real luxury brands. This level of competence isn’t likely needed in a segment that has only two real competitors left, the aging Chrysler 300 and Nissan Maxima, but it is highly welcome. And when ordered in a high trim level, it makes a strong case against larger entry-level luxury sedans like the mechanically related Lexus ES. What’s new for 2021? The 2021 Avalon gets a number of significant, if not earth-shattering changes over the previous year. The biggest is the addition of optional all-wheel-drive, which is exclusively paired to an also-new 205-horsepower naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. Front-drive cars remain available with either a 301-horsepower V6 or 215-horsepower hybrid powertrain that gets a lighter lithium-ion battery pack for 2021. Elsewhere, Android Auto is not only now available, but is standard. There are also two new USB-C ports. Finally, the XSE trim becomes the XSE Nightshade trim. It’s distinguished with black trim throughout: the grille, mirrors, spoiler, badging, window trim, door handles, antenna and 19-inch wheels. What’s the Avalon interior and in-car technology like? The Avalon's full redesign for 2019 brought a higher-quality interior with a considerably different look than what you'll find in a Camry. Together, this goes a long way in justifying the Avalon's higher price. A tall, rectilinear center stack rises forth from the center console and seems to hover away from the rest of the dash like a free-standing tower. It's kinda cool and avoids the tacked-on iPad look many dislike, while still benefiting from the reduced visual bulk and elevated sightline that design allows. The area behind it is architectural in appearance, neatly integrates the air vents, and showcases different materials. Most of the interior materials are high-grade plastics, but high trim models such as the Touring receive incredibly soft leather as well as real, open-pore wood trim. Equipped as such, the Avalon feels like a full-fledged luxury car. The TRD meanwhile looks quite sporty with its black and red interior. Unfortunately, the seats don’t receive any additional bolstering, so the extra cornering ability will have you bracing yourself to stay in place. Wide, expansive seats are comfortable to sit on for long periods of time, and the driving position is perfect for eating up highway miles with ease. Visibility is fantastic with no major negatives to make note of. Heated and cooled seats are available depending on which trim you opt for, as is a heated steering wheel. The aforementioned center tower itself features unique-to-Avalon switchgear that maintains …
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