XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
XSE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
XSE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
XSE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
XSE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
XSE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
The 2021 Toyota Avalon comes powered by a 301 hp producing V6 motor and gets AWD as an addition for this year. The Avalon Hybrid and the TRD versions are still on sale for the 2021 model year. Toyota has also added a Nightshade edition as part of the lineup for the 2021 Avalon.
The Avalon is the most premium sedan offered by one of the biggest carmakers in the world, Toyota. With a starting MSRP of $35,875, the latest 2021 Toyota Avalon gets the premium sedan's first-ever AWD system and a completely blacked-out scintillating Nightshade Edition for the XSE trim. The Avalon hybrid and the TRD model get carried forward without any major changes.
With a potent 301-hp V6 engine that delivers smooth acceleration to the segment-best 44 MPG of the hybrid version, and also to the sumptuous looks of the Nightshade edition, Toyota has gone all-in for the 2021 Avalon. Though only slightly larger than the Toyota Camry, the Avalon has acres of legroom for all occupants and a higher percentage of premium materials used. Read on to find out more about what the 2021 Toyota Avalon has in store for us.
The Toyota Avalon comes in 4 trims, the base- XLE, Limited, Touring, and XSE Nightshade, and the top of the line TRD model with prices ranging from $36.125 to $42,825. All trims are powered by a standard 3.5 liter V6 that comes paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission, but once you opt for the AWD setup with the XLE and Limited trims, you get an equally potent 4-cylinder engine found in the Toyota RAV4 instead of a V6.
The 4 trims- XLE, XSE, and Limited, come with 3 driving modes while there is an extra Sport S+ mode in the Touring trim and TRD model. Then there is the Hybrid variant too, which comes with the XLE, XSE, and Limited trim.
Model |
XLE |
XSE Nightshade |
Limited |
Touring |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP (FWD) |
$36,125 | $39,360 | $42,425 | $42,825 |
MSRP (AWD) | $36,125 | - | $42,425 | - |
Key Features |
Dual-zone automatic climate control |
Adds/Upgrades from “XLE” |
Adds/Upgrades from “XSE Nightshade” |
Adds/Upgrades from “Limited” |
Integrated Backup camera with dynamic gridlines | The Qi-compatible wireless charging system | 7-inch TFT Multi-Information Display | Active Noise Control | |
8-way adjustable driver seat and 2-way lumbar | SofTex trimmed heated with perforation front seats | Heated Rear Seats | Heated tilt and telescopic steering wheel with memory function | |
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control | Tilt and telescopic leather steering wheel | 10-in colored HUD | 4-Mode Switch (Eco, Normal/Custom, Sport, Sport+) | |
Hydrographic interior trim | 3-Mode Switch (Eco, Normal, Sport) | Genuine wood interior trim | Dual Sun visors | |
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay | Aluminum interior trim | frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror | ||
Rear window defogger with timer | Nightshade black-colored trimmings | Electric Parking Brake | ||
Smart Key System |
We recommend the 2021 Toyota Avalon's XSE Nightshade Edition trim. With the XSE, consumers will have the best blend of features and cost-effectiveness from the Avalon range. You get premium features like powered and heated mirrors, 19” alloys, auto-dimming rear-view mirrors as standard with the Avalon and a decently loaded 9” touchscreen infotainment system.
Plus when you equip the XSE trim with Toyota's trusted and latest design approach, the sporty Nightshade Edition, you get a family premium sedan with complete chrome deletion. It certainly sets your heart racing from just a glance. it comes in over three colors, the Midnight Black Metallic, the Wind Chill Pearl, and the Celestial Silver Metallic.
​As we mentioned earlier, the cost of ownership for the Toyota Avalon over a period of 5 years adds up to be $47,437. Eyeing for a used Avalon is Not a bad option. If you are planning to pick up a pre-owned Toyota Avalon, you might as well look for a 2015-16 model, with over 65% of the car's value still intact. It can certainly work in your favor, and you might just get a sweet deal for yourself.
​​From what we know, the Avalon loses around $12,000 in its first year as depreciation. If you were to buy the Base Avalon for $35K, that’s nearly 1/3rd of the vehicle price you’re losing in its maiden year. The curve is pretty smooth thereafter, therefore expect steady depreciation of around half or possibly even less of what it would lose in its first year.
As it is evident from the above graph, if you're looking for a Used Avalon, go for the 2015 model, as it may a lost a bit of appeal but still holds about 60% of its value.
In our tests, it delivered well-mannered handling that did an admirable job of keeping bumps and jolts out of the cabin- Car And Driver
The 2021 Toyota Avalon gets a choice between 2 engines, an Inline-4, and the standard 3.5 liter V6 found in the 2020 Avalon, which punches out a respectable 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Inline-4 cylinder 2021 Avalon borrows the unit from the Toyota RAV4. For 2021, the Toyota Avalon gets its first-ever AWD setup but is paired exclusively to the 4-cylinder engine.
The V6 engine is quite silent and fuel-efficient and performs the way it is supposed to be. When it comes to the hybrid setup, you get the same 2.5L engine with two electric motors that punch out 215 hp.
Refinement levels are extremely good and the engine feels at home while doing city speeds. Moreover, the Avalon's multi-link rear suspension surely does seem to do the trick, as it provides a much more comfortable and agile handling dynamics. You can also choose between three ride modes with a push of a button: Normal that emphasizes comfort, Sport, and Sport+ for better throttle response and increases in feedback from the Electronic Power steering
Models |
2021 Toyota Avalon |
2021 Nissan Maxima SV |
2021 Chrysler 300 S |
2021 BMW 330i |
---|---|---|---|---|
MRSP |
$ 35,875 |
$ 36,060 |
$ 36, 395 |
$41,245 |
Engine |
3.5 L Naturally Aspirated V6 |
3.5 L Naturally Aspirated V6 |
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6 |
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
Drivetrain |
FWD |
FWD |
RWD |
RWD |
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
CVT |
8-Speed Automatic |
8-Speed Automatic |
Power |
301 hp @ 6,600 RPM |
300 hp @ 6,400 RPM |
300 hp @ 6,350 RPM |
255 hp @ 5,000 RPM |
Torque |
267 lb-ft @ 4,700 RPM |
261 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM |
264 lb-ft @ 4,800 RPM |
295 lb-ft @ 1,550 RPM |
The transmission duties are dealt with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The gear shifts are fairly smooth and the transmission will not give you room for any excuse, unlike the CVT in the hybrid version.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon manages to hit 60 mph in 6 seconds flat and finishes the quarter-mile run in 14.6 seconds. Flat out, the Avalon manages to hit the limiter with a top speed of 130 mph. The 2021 Toyota Avalon is positioned as a family sedan and therefore Toyota has kept things simple.
The potent V6 engine with the slick-smooth 8-Speed automatic work concurrently to achieve this feat. In terms of braking performance too, the Avalon manages to complete an emergency stop from 60 mph in 115 feet which is commendable for a 3500-pound sedan.
Models |
2021 Toyota Avalon |
2021 Nissan Maxima SV |
2021 Chrysler 300 S |
2021 BMW 330i |
---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
6 secs |
5.7 secs |
5.3 secs |
5.8 secs |
Quarter Mile |
14.6 secs |
14.3 secs |
13.8 secs |
14.7 secs |
Top Speed |
130 MPH |
145 MPH |
155 MPH |
131 MPH |
Engine |
3.5 L Naturally Aspirated V6 |
3.5 L Naturally Aspirated V6 |
3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6 |
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 |
60-0 MPH (ft) |
115 |
120 |
109 |
113 |
Despite having the most powerful engine of the lot, the Avalon is slowest in terms of acceleration figures, albeit by a very small margin. All the other sedans here manage to do the 60 MPH run in under 6 seconds, with the Chrysler 300 doing the quarter-mile in under 14 seconds, a serious feat by the Americans.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon ride quality is one of the best in class. As standard, it gets the Independent MacPherson strut front suspension with stabilizer bar and multi-link rear suspension with stabilizer bar. The 2021 Avalon absorbs the road abnormalities with utter ease and feels sharp and direct on the tight bends.
Fuel economy for the Avalon equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder motor, eight-speed auto transmission, and AWD system is truly impressive- Carbuzz
Currently, the Avalon manages 26 mpg combined, but the 4 Cylinder motor delivers better mileage figures, thanks to its 200 hp motor. For a 3.5L V6, the Avalon puts up decent EPA estimated figures of 22 MPG in the city, and about 32 miles to the gallon out on the highway.
Plus the various driving modes and the Intelligent AWD system certainly amplify the driving dynamics with the added benefit of better fuel efficiency. Although, even if these figures don't cater to your liking, there is the hybrid variant that delivers up to 44 MPG combined, with the help of its Toyota Hybrid System (THS II). Toyota certainly seems to be doing wonders on the fuel economy front at this point.
Models |
2021 Toyota Avalon |
2021 Nissan Maxima SV |
2021 Chrysler 300 S |
2021 BMW 330i |
---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (City) |
22 |
20 |
19 |
26 |
MPG (Highway) |
32 |
30 |
30 |
36 |
MPG (Combined) |
26 |
24 |
23 |
30 |
Fuel Capacity (Gallons) |
14.5 |
18 |
18.5 |
15.6 |
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) (mi) |
319/464/377 |
360/540/432 |
352/555/425 |
406/562/468 |
Emission (Tons/Year of CO2 Emissions @ 15kMi/Year) |
6.7 |
7.4 |
7.6 |
N/A |
The BMW 330i manages to score big on the MPG front as it manages to make good use of its Turbocharged motor. It offers the best MPG figures in this comparison and is followed by the Toyota, Nissan, and the Chrysler 300S thereafter.
When it comes to the overall look of the cabin, the current Avalon represents a big step up relative to models from previous generations- Car and Driver
The interiors of the 2021 Toyota Avalon remain largely similar to the 2020 Avalon. Although, the current generation Avalon surely has taken a big leap forward with respect to its previous generations. The whole cabin is well-appointed and things feel like they’re built to last. In terms of rear seating, passengers can relax and enjoy since the space on offer is plentiful. Speaking of space, the Avalon has a cargo capacity of 16.1 cubic-feet which surpasses most of the cars in this segment.
The flowing-infotainment dominates the center console and is placed quite high up. For the year 2021, Android Auto is now available as a standard option. Moreover, the Nightshade Edition also brings out the black interior trimmings, for people looking out for a sporty feel from their saloon.Â
Models |
2021 Toyota Avalon |
2021 Nissan Maxima SV |
2021 Chrysler 300 S |
2021 BMW 330i |
---|---|---|---|---|
Seating Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
38.5/58.3/42.1 |
39.4/56.7/45.0 |
38.6/59.5/41.8 |
38.7/56.0/42.0 |
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
37.9/57.1/40.3 |
36.7/56.7/34.2 |
37.9/57.7/40.1 |
37.6/56.0/35.2 |
Cargo Capacity (cu.ft) |
16.1 |
14.3 |
16.3 |
17.0 |
The 2021 Avalon certainly takes the lead in terms of outright cabin-space, with adequate amounts of both headroom, and legroom in the rear. Although, when it comes to the cargo-bit, the BMW 330i, with its 17-inch cargo-capacity does take the mantle in this segment of luxury family sedans.
The 9" Touchscreen Infotainment screen in the Avalon comes with Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa connectivity, and Dynamic Navigation, a few standard equipment among the various other loads of infotainment features.
The Infotainment system itself feels slick enough and responsive to touch inputs. However, it may get laggy in some instances. Audiophiles get treated to a crisp eight-speaker surround sound system, which can then be optioned out for a much more premium 14-speaker JBL sound system upgrade. Sunlight legibility is good as well and reading data and information from the massive touchscreen, won't be much of an issue.
Some of the standard infotainment features include:
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The Toyota Avalon has a muscular, toned look on the outside, and a quiet and subdued interior. It’s overwrought in places, but mostly refined in styling- The Car Connection
The 2021 Avalon continues to sport a large front grille dominating the front fascia. The headlights have gotten slimmer and overall the design seems rather a mix of conventional sedan traits with a splash of modernism. With the onset of the Avalon's fifth generation, Toyota had made the Avalon's design a bit more streamlined, with a low line roof and a new rear fascia. The 2021 Toyota Avalon is based on the TNGA platform architecture.
Toyota for 2021, has more or less given some thought to its design approach, and that's where the new XSE Nightshade Edition comes in. It brings about black accents all over, who doesn't want that? A complete chrome deletion is what you get when you opt for the Nightshade Edition, including new Black 19-inch alloys. There are also 3 new colors, namely Midnight Black Metallic, Wind Chill Pearl, and the Celestial Silver Metallic.
Models |
2021 Toyota Avalon |
2021 Nissan Maxima SV |
2021 Chrysler 300 S |
2021 BMW 330i |
---|---|---|---|---|
Curb Weight (lbs) |
3,560 |
3,552 |
4,013 |
3,582 |
Length (in) |
195.9 |
192.8 |
198.6 |
185.7 |
Width (in) |
72.8 |
73.2 |
75 |
71.9 |
Height (in) |
56.5 |
56.5 |
58.5 |
56.8 |
Ground Clearance (in) |
5.3 |
5.3 |
5.3 |
5.7 |
Wheelbase (in) |
113 |
115 |
120.2 |
103 |
In terms of its rivals, we much prefer the BMW 330i’s design where things look smart and simple. Chrysler seems a bit dated and the 300 is surely due for an update. The Maxima is quite modern with its coupe-ish rear quarter, but overall our best pick would be the 2020 BMW 330i, in terms of the exterior front.
Toyota thoroughly outfits the Avalon with advanced driver-assist technologies and active safety measures, even at the base level- Carbuzz
The 2021 Toyota Avalon is one of the safest cars in its segment. The NHTSA gave the Toyota Avalon an overall five-star rating and IIHS awarded the TOP SAFETY PICK + in 2019. The Avalon is also one of the most reliable full-size sedans in the market. Toyota takes the safety of its cars very seriously and comes loaded with lots of action as well as passive safety features.
From 2020, all the cars in the Toyota lineup come with Standard Toyota Safety Sense. Moreover, the Avalon is also available with a Bird's Eye View Camera with a Perimeter Scan that reads the cars surrounding to deliver a composite view of the car as seen from above. A pretty premium feature for a $40,000 saloon. The safety features are not trim-specific and come standard across all trims.
Some of the standard safety features are:
Both of these Japanese sedans offer great value for money. They are quite spacious with excellent fuel efficiency. They also offer excellent ride quality and are perfectly suited for everyday commutation. However, Nissan recommends unleaded premium fuel for the Maxima while you can fill up the Avalon with regular unleaded fuel and Toyota offers much better peace of mind. Not to say the Maxima is unreliable but none stand a chance against Toyota in that respect.
With similar pricing, both the Avalon and the Chrysler 300 have different customer bases. If you like a heavy car with raw power and speed, the Chrysler 300 is the car for you. But if you are one of those folks who like a balanced family car with great fuel efficiency and great safety, Toyota Avalon is the car for you. Don’t get us started with reliability, since you know who’d win that.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon manages to capture the imagination of the masses with its superb styling, efficient and powerful motor, comfortable ride quality, and unquestionable Toyota build. The 2021 Toyota Avalon, checks a lot of boxes as far as meeting the demands of the buyer of this segment goes. It is a no-nonsense car to buy, own, and enjoy. Moreover, with the potent V6 engine and the affordable price tag, it certainly seems a car worth buying.