2010 Toyota Avalon: Road Test
2010 Toyota Avalon ▼
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- MSRP: $27,945 - $35,285
- Invoice: $25,246 - $31,401
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Our road test for the 2010 Toyota Avalon includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Toyota Avalon from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Toyota Avalon, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Toyota Avalon help you decide if a 2010 Toyota Avalon is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.6 |
While we've not 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 seconds 0-60 mph. Expect the same or slightly better with the 6-speed.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.3 |
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 | 4.9 |
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 | 4.2 |
Poised enough for a big family sedan, with fine straightline 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 | 5.1 |
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 | 4.8 |
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 | 4.7 |
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 | 5.7 |
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 | 4.8 |
A wide, flat-floor cabin allows true three-abreast comfort. Manual-reclining seatbacks are a luxury-class touch. Headroom and legroom are good, but under-seat foot space is tight. As in front, large door openings allow fuss-free entry and exit.
CARGO ROOM
| XLS | Limited w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 |
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 | 5.1 |
Avalon is not miles ahead in this class for refinement, room, or interior ambiance. However, even in the face of strong new competitors, this large sedan need make no apologies 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 | 50.2 |
Total Score: 76
Scores for all Large Cars
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