Only 1 Toyota Car Won Best in Class From Edmunds
The full-size Toyota Avalon sedan claims the best-in-class spot among large sedans, but there’s a bit of a catch to its success. Toyota is one of the best car brands, and the Avalon has been an underrated premium option for a long time. The Avalon’s strong reputation for durability, premium interior and cabin materials, and relatively affordable starting price make it one of the most reliable cars for driving with others and the best full-size car overall.
The 2022 Toyota Avalon is the best-in-class large sedan… but on a technicality
Winning is winning, but being named the best large sedan in the class by Edmunds has slightly less weight when there are only three cars in the class. It’s true. There are only three full-size cars left on the market. These include the Toyota Avalon and two Stellantis models, the Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Charger.
The disappearance of the full-size sedan has been a long time coming. Familiar names like the Kia Cadenza, Ford Taurus, and Chevy Impala have long since disappeared as shoppers hunt for crossovers and fuel-efficient small cars. It’s not too much of a surprise to see the Toyota Avalon as one of the few remaining large cars. And, it’s not surprising at all that it’s still on top. It’s one of the most reliable large sedans, and with a starting price under $40,000, it’s one of the best affordable premium cars in 2022.
The Avalon’s interior puts it on par with the best luxury cars of 2022
Are Toyota Avalons good cars? Edmunds says yes. Its Avalon review claims that “comfort is a strength for the Avalon and is probably the primary reason you’d consider such a large sedan. All seating positions give you ample cushioning and support for long drives or short cruises. The leather upholstery is very soft and gives the sensation that the Avalon is more upscale than its price suggests.”
Among all 2022 models, Toyota Avalon XLE or Limited trim levels give you the best large car for the money. Edmunds recommends the top Touring trim level. While this model boasts the highest price of the Avalon, it’s also packed with luxury features like premium audio, ventilated front seats, and integrated navigation.
Disappointing changes for the 2022 Avalon, but it’s still on top
The 2022 Avalon is the fourth model offered in the large sedan’s latest generation. The fifth-gen Avalon was first introduced in 2019. There have been a few changes for this latest model year, and they’re all pretty disappointing.
The Toyota Avalon TRD is missing for the 2022 model year. Toyota discontinued this high-performance variant of the full-size Avalon sedan last year, along with every all-wheel drive model. That means you can only get your next model in XLE, Limited, or Touring trims and only in front-wheel drive. Fortunately, all models still come standard with a 301-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Toyota is discontinuing the Avalon full-size sedan after 2022
Is the Avalon TRD discontinued? Not quite yet—but this is its final run as a popular and affordable premium large sedan. Toyota is killing the Avalon because the market just doesn’t want full-size sedans anymore. Anyone looking for a sleek and cheap car is usually shopping for the best midsize sedans. And buyers who want room for a family all have their sights set firmly on the massive market of crossovers and SUVs.
In the meantime, the Avalon continues to be the best-in-class full-size sedan. Until, of course, the class disappears for good.
