2013 Toyota Avalon XLE Full Size Sedan Review

The 2013 Toyota Avalon XLE is a very different animal compared to the previous generations. The Avalons of old were for those of the older generation who wanted big sedan comfort from Toyota. The new Avalon aims to change that by targeting a younger audience (40- to 60-year-olds, in this case) and giving the vehicle a more youthful appearance.

The 2013 Avalon's exterior is a stunner. Compared to the outgoing model, the new Avalon has a smooth design with a stout front end, sloping roofline, and a raked C-Pillar. This isn't your grandparent's Avalon. Inside, the Avalon is well appointed. You'll find premium materials used throughout the interior as well a new center stack that features Toyota's Intellitouch capacitive touch buttons to use with either a 6.1 or 7-inch touchscreen.

Powering the Avalon is a 3.5L V6 engine with 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic sends the power to the front wheels. EPA rates the 2013 Avalon at 21 City/31 Highway/25 combined.

A 2013 Toyota Avalon starts at $30,990 for the XLE model and comes equipped with seventeen-inch alloy wheels, leather, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and push button start. The price climbs up to $39,650 for the Avalon Limited model. Competitors to the Avalon include the Chevrolet Impala, Hyundai Azera, and Nissan Maxima.