Model Tested: 2022 Toyota Avalon XSE Hybrid Nightshade
Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 215 combined horsepower and 163 lb.-ft torque
Transmission: ECVT automatic transmission, front-wheel drive
EPA Rating: 43-mpg city, 43-mpg highway, 43-mpg combined
Base Price: $40,600
As Tested: $44,157
Performance:
Excellent fuel economy in the low forties
Very good acceleration
Smooth power application
Very comfortable highway ride
Drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, EV
Comprehensive driver assistance suite
Comfort:
Spacious, comfortable, well-appointed interior
Super stretch-out front legroom
Heated front seats
Driver power lumbar
Medium thick, slightly contoured steering wheel
Lots of good auxiliary controls
Good quality leather on seats
Very spacious rear seat
Firm, but comfy rear seats
An adult can fit in middle position
Utility:
Wide trunk opening
Flat trunk floor
Six-inch lift-over
Sixteen cubic feet of trunk space
Trunk lip release buttons for folding rear seats
Big height difference between trunk and folder seats
Folded seats slope
Medium size front door bins
Big console bin
Top of console lightly padded
Three charging ports in console
Medium glovebox but no lock
Big visors that slide
Extra storage in front of shifter
Big seatback pouches
WOW Factors:
Nice use of black trim for Nightshade Edition
Big, comfy interior including rear seat
Very good fuel economy
Pleasurable long distance cruiser
Whines:
Grille design a little busy for us
Height difference between trunk and folded seats
Inexpensive headliner
Bottom Line:
The 2022 Toyota Avalon XSE Hybrid Nightshade is a big, comfortable full-size sedan—a vehicle category that’s fast disappearing in the sea of SUVs. Not everyone wants or needs an off-road capable vehicle. Many people just want a comfortable, fuel-efficient four-door sedan and that’s what the Toyota Avalon has always been and has always done very well. The hybrid option only makes the Toyota Avalon better.
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