2021 Toyota Avalon Offers This 1 Helpful Feature That Other Model Years Don’t
The Toyota Avalon, like the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, is a large sedan headed for the chopping block. That’s a real shame, too; the Avalon never got enough credit as a reliable, affordable luxury alternative to more premium badges like Cadillac and Lexus. However, there are plenty of good used options among the Avalon’s many model years, including the 2021 model. Moreover, the 2021 Toyota Avalon offered one feature that the 2022 and other models didn’t: all-wheel drive (AWD).
What model year of Avalon has AWD?
2021 is the only model year of the Toyota Avalon that offers AWD. Moreover, only two trims of the Avalon offer the added grip of AWD: the XLE and Limited. That means the other trims in the Avalon’s lineup go without the grippy feature.
Instead, the 2021 Toyota Avalon’s other trims use front-wheel drive (FWD) to pull their way down the road. That’s not necessarily bad, though; FWD is a better application for inclement weather than rear-wheel drive (RWD), which most Dodge Chargers utilize. Still, the Touring and the performance-oriented TRD trim go without the AWD system.
However, opting for the AWD system requires a relatively large caveat; potential owners can’t get it with the 301-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine. Instead, the only powerplant that marries up to the AWD system is the 2.5L inline four-cylinder mill. So, in order to get that rain-ready AWD grip, owners will have to settle for around 205 horsepower.
Is there a 2022 Toyota Avalon AWD?
Unfortunately for potential owners who want AWD grip in their 2022 Toyota Avalon, the 2021 model year is the only iteration that offers the option. Instead, the 2022 Toyota Avalon moves via FWD.
However, AWD wasn’t the only casualty of the 2022 model year; Toyota discontinued its TRD performance trim. According to TrueCar, the TRD (Toyota Racing Development) trim packs aero features like skirts, splitters, a gloss black spoiler, a rear diffuser, and TRD logos throughout. Moreover, the TRD had the 301-horsepower V6, unlike the AWD trims of 2021.
What should I pay for a 2021 Toyota Avalon?
According to KBB (Kelley Blue Book), a new 2021 Toyota Avalon XLE has a fair purchase price of around $34,896. However, you’ll likely find a used example with low miles. A used 2021 Toyota Avalon XLE has a fair purchase value of about $32,667.
Moreover, if you want a used Avalon with AWD and a bit more luxury, you’ll have to go for the Limited trim. KBB says a 2021 Toyota Avalon Limited AWD has a fair value of $38,472. Additionally, if you want the last TRD performance variant before the marque discontinued it, you’ll have to part with about $40,408.
Why is Toyota discontinuing the Avalon?
The Toyota Avalon, despite its credentials as an affordable luxury car alternative to more premium brands, couldn’t keep up with the sales of crossovers and SUVs in the North American market. As a result, Toyota is discontinuing the Avalon to make room for the next generation of Toyota models.
Do you have a 2021 Toyota Avalon? Tell us about it in the comments below!
