Flash Drive

2015 Toyota Avalon

January 31, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2015 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited 

The Toyota Avalon is largely unchanged for 2015, but it's still a handsome design.
The Toyota Avalon is largely unchanged for 2015, but it’s still a handsome design.

Engine: 2.5-liter I-4 gas with Hybrid Synergy electric motor, 200 horsepower 

Transmission: CVT automatic transmission front-wheel-drive 

EPA Ratings: 40/City—39/Highway—40/Combined 

Base Price: $41,400 

As Tested: $44,160 

Performance:

Seamless blend of gas and hybrid power

Good off the line acceleration

Smooth, comfortable freeway ride characteristics

EV, ECO, and Sport modes controls on console 

The excellent Toyota Avalon Hybrid puts out 200 hp with ample torque and acceleration.
The excellent Toyota Avalon Hybrid puts out 200 hp with ample torque and acceleration.

Comfort:

High quality interior materials

Small amount of wood accents

Power lumbar for driver and front passenger

3 temp heated and cooled front seats

Heated rear outboard seats

Comfy, but supportive seats

Soft headrests

Stretch-out front legroom

Very good headroom

Sliding center armrest

Thick, contoured leather steering wheel

Good auxiliary controls

Excellent rear seat leg and headroom

Very low floor hump; adults can sit in middle position

Rear seat temperature controls at back of center console

Utility:

Big console bin

Power rear window shade

A thick, contoured leather steering wheel has very good auxiliary controls. This is a non-hybrid dash as noted by the tachometer.
A thick, contoured leather steering wheel has very good auxiliary controls. This is a non-hybrid dash as noted by the tachometer.

Large infotainment screen

Medium locking glove box

Small rear door bins

Two seatback pouches, but very little stretch

Wide rear seat armrest

Big rear door opening

Large trunk with wide opening and flat floor 

Wow Factors:

Spacious, luxurious interior front and back

Contemporary, slightly conservative styling

Strong value position

Impressive fuel economy 

Whines:

Rather small sunroof 

Bottom Line:

The 2015 Toyota Avalon is one of the unsung heroes of the Toyota lineup. It’s a great roomy sedan with many excellent attributes. It offers near Lexus luxury at a near Camry price. It’s fun to drive and the addition of hybrid power makes it economical to operate.