Without question the 2018, Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE has everything you want and then some like a Lexus with a Toyota feel. For the 40 MPG on average and for people starting to dip their toes into luxury hybrid, maybe this ones for you.
The reason it has that Lexus feel is The hybrid system in the 2018 Avalon Hybrid is also found in the Lexus ES 300h,, Lexus NX 300h (which I’ve test driven and it does feel the same as that) and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid just test drove this one and that was after the Avalon. Now I know why?!??!)
For that lovely close to $40,000 but $39,985 you get:
Premium perforated leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats
HID Quadrabeam headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
As TFLcar reports:
Before we get there, however, it’s worth mentioning the non-hybrid option. The standard Avalon’s 3.5-liter V6 produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm. Teamed with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the V6 impresses with both its acceleration and its EPA-rated 24 MPG combined fuel economy (21 city/30 highway). That being said, the hybrid naturally does even better. Even though its less powerful, it manages an impressive 40 MPG in the city and 39 on the highway. I Did get in ECO mode 42-43 mpg. On road trips I think it’ll do even better.
The steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and choice of Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes make the Avalon a bit more exciting than its powertrain might suggest. The Sport mode selection yields quicker throttle response and boosted electric power steering feel, while also raising transmission shift points. On downshifts, it “blips” the throttle, as the driver of a stick-shift sports car would.
You also get:
Power rear window sunshade, rear climate controls and heated rear seats
Safety Connect® 28 with Emergency and Roadside Assistance
Entune™ Premium JBL® Audio with Integrated Navigation 22 and App Suite; 34 11 JBL® GreenEdge™ speakers
It comes with all the new Car tech like driver aids, built-in navigation, and the Bluetooth interface.
But if you’re not smartphone smart it’s not fun to sync. Also, the Entune interface doesn’t have CarPlay and Android Auto easy connections.
Smart Key System 27 on front doors and trunk with Push Button Start
Power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade
Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink® 31 universal transceiver
However as kbb.com reports:
Unlike the Chevrolet Impala, the Avalon comes standard with a V6 engine, and it stands apart from sportier rivals like the Nissan Maxima and Dodge Charger with a hybrid version that attains up to 40 mpg. While facing the same headwinds as other rivals — buyers favoring crossover SUVs to large sedans — the 2018 Toyota Avalon Hybrid remains among the best of its kind thanks to its reputation for reliability, efficiency and Lexus-like refinement at a Toyota price.
I’ll be frank. Unless the tech gets better and you’re willing to love it for what it is, expect a high end car for a decent price. I mean it’s got the window curtains, great sound system and definitely better than the 2014 version tested. So it is worth the effort of a look. It’s got the bling.
If you want a better hybrid there is a step up to the Lexus Department but it’ll cost you more than a Toyota Avalon XLE Hybrid.
