2009 Toyota Avalon: Road Test
2009 Toyota Avalon ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $27,845 - $35,185
- Invoice: $25,156 - $31,312
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Toyota Avalon
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2009 Toyota Avalon includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Toyota Avalon from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Toyota Avalon, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Toyota Avalon help you decide if a 2009 Toyota Avalon is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
While we've not yet tested an Avalon with the 6-speed automatic, versions with the previous 5-speed could match some costlier V8 cars for pep and polish. A test XLS with the 5-speed automatic did a quick 6.2 sec 0-60 mph. Expect the same or slightly better with the 6-speed.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 5-speed Avalons averaged 22.6-28.0 mpg in mostly highway driving and 18.4 in a city/highway mix that included gas-eating performance tests. Again, expect the same or slightly better fuel economy with the 6-speed. Avalon uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.6 |
Avalon has a plush feel, as expected from a large car such as this, though there's too much float over dips and crests for some tastes. Avalon nicely smothers small bumps, ruts, and expansion joints.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
For a big family sedan, Avalon is posed, with fine straight-line stability. Some testers want more steering feel and weight. Good grip in turns, but body lean is pronounced as cornering speeds increase. Strong brakes are easy to modulate, but simulated panic stops induced marked nosedive.
QUIETNESS
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Tranquil. Only mild tire rumble enters the cabin on coarse pavement. The V6 sounds rich during acceleration and is always subdued while cruising. Some wind rush is noticeable around the exterior mirrors, but travel is otherwise serene.
CONTROLS
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.4 |
Large gauges are easy to read. Standard steering-wheel controls are a convenience plus, but main functions and several accessories operate from look-alike buttons in the central dashboard. Navigation switches are nicely organized on a tilt-out panel, but programming it is more difficult than it should be.
DETAILS
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
Cabin decor is mostly elegant, but assembly and materials don't out-pace those of like-priced rivals. One test example suffered minor dashboard rattles.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 7.9 |
The front seat is large-adult roomy with supportive seats. Driver comfort is enhanced on the Limited by power in/out thigh bolsters. Visibility is a bit pinched to the right-rear, fine otherwise.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 |
A wide, flat-floor cabin allows true three-abreast comfort. Manual-reclining seatbacks are a luxury-class touch. Good legroom and headroom, but they're less expansive than in the Ford Taurus or Mercury Sable--and foot space is tight. As in front, large door openings allow fuss-free entry/exit.
CARGO ROOM
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.4 |
The trunk has space enough for most family excursions, but packing gets complicated by intrusion from the wheel housings and trunklid hinges. Ample cabin storage includes a dedicated cell phone holder.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 8 | 6.9 |
Even if Avalon's not miles ahead in this class for refinement, room, or interior ambiance, no apologies are necessary for its showing in those areas. A fine V6 powertrain, solid feel, cushy ride, and Toyota's strong track record for resale value make this a Best Buy in its class.
Total Score
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 77 | 74 | 68.9 |
Total Score: 76
Scores for all Large Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
