New 2011 Toyota Avalon Offers More Features, Same Great Gas Mileage
In 2010, the Toyota Avalon topped the competition as the most fuel-efficient full-size sedan for the year. This year, the new 2011 Toyota Avalon returns with the same stellar mileage, a freshened exterior and a bolstered standard feature set. Keep reading to learn about the many benefits of the new Toyota Avalon and determine if it is the right large car for your needs.
New 2011 Toyota Avalon Styling
Toyota has always slanted towards a more conservative styling aesthetic. While this philosophy stays true for the 2011 Avalon, the understated refinement of Toyota's largest car offers plenty of appeal for those who don't feel the need to stand out from the crowd. A freshened front end and rear end help distinguish the 2011 model from its predecessor.
Inside, the Toyota Avalon lives up to its full-size status with a remarkably roomy interior. In fact, it boasts one of the largest cabin areas in its class, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers to spread out. Rear passengers will feel especially pampered thanks to the ample legroom and reclining seatbacks, which come standard.
An updated dashboard design serves to further create a near-luxury appeal for the Avalon's interior. Along with the standard wood accents and attractive metal trim, gauges and controls prove well thought out to deliver a design that is not only attractive, but functional as well.
New 2011 Toyota Avalon Performance
The 2011 Toyota Avalon returns with a single engine option - a 3.5-liter V-6. While the 268-hp performance offered by this powerplant isn't quite up to snuff with a true sport sedan, the Avalon does offer a smooth, yet exhilarating drive. With solid highway acceleration and good maneuverability for its size, most drivers won't find anything to complain about when it comes to everyday driving.
The new Avalon comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission (no manual options are available). Fuel efficiency ratings put the Avalon at 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway (23 mpg combined). While not all large-car competitor figures have been announced for the 2011 model year, drivers can expect the Avalon to be hard to beat when it comes to fuel efficiency.
New 2011 Toyota Avalon Safety
The Toyota Avalon offers a good mix of standard safety features. All models come equipped with seven airbags, antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control and active front head restraints. Last year, the nearly identical Avalon received a top rating of "Good" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
New 2011 Toyota Avalon Pricing
The new 2011 Toyota Avalon starts at $32,245. While that base price is a little high for the class, the Avalon comes equipped with a high number of standard features. These features include sunroof, automatic headlights, cruise control, dual-zone air conditioning, heated mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather seats, Bluetooth and nine-speaker stereo system. An upgrade Limited model adds automatic wipers, keyless ignition, heated front seats, upgraded stereo and more.
If the Avalon is too rich for your blood, consider test-driving the Ford Taurus or the Hyundai Azera. For a boost in style and comparable luxury features, take a look at the Chrysler 300 and Buick Lucerne.