2011 Toyota Avalon

The 2011 Toyota Avalon is now offered in two trims only, namely the base and Limited variant. Both these trims share amongst them a standard powertrain setup and are distinguished by the features that they possess. While the base set of features on both trims feel price adequate, optional specifications like a voice-activated navigation system with traffic reporting allow the sedan to compete with cars above its class.

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At a premium of almost $3,000, the 2011 Toyota Avalon Limited trim comes with improved features like rain-sensing wipers and heated mirrors. The standard V6 engine is powerful in its performance and the ride quality with either of the trims is appreciable. However, we suggest the top-tier variant as it gets standard all specifications you will have to equip additionally on the base trim.

The vigorous and dynamic engine that sits under the hood of the 2011 Toyota Avalon is a 3.5L V6 unit that delivers likable performance similar to the segment standards. It belts out 268hp and 248lb.-ft of torque and comes mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. The duo of these units, transfer the power directly to the front wheels of the vehicle and bestow a comfortable and supple ride that does not compromise on luxury.

The acceleration of the 2011 Avalon in a straight line is phenomenal and one of its strongest suits, despite being a gigantic sedan. It sprints from 0-60 mph in 7 seconds and can complete a quarter-mile run in 14.7 seconds. The only drawback in its performance, perhaps, is the evident body roll while cornering.

While each sedan has a similar powertrain setup, the 2011 Nissan Maxima makes use of a CVT unit and produces the highest power and torque output of 290hp and 261lb.-ft of torque. It is the quickest to the 60mph mark and clocks 6.3 seconds. The other competitors, the Ford Taurus, and Buick Lacrosse are similar in the acceleration test, however, lose out in the quarter-mile run taking 15.5 and 15.2 seconds, respectively.

Despite housing a potent engine, the 2011 Toyota Avalon averages efficient figures and is rated at 23 MPG, combined. In the city, it can manage 20MPG, which increases significantly to 29MPG on the highway. By being the most frugal sedan on option, even the least voluminous tank of the Avalon that can hold 18.5-gallons, allows the vehicle to average a range of 370 city miles and 537 highway miles.

The Nissan Maxima is the next best option available in the segment averaging 20 MPG, it also features the largest fuel tank of 20-gallons and manages better mileage in the city of 380 miles than the Toyota. The Ford and Buick, continue to lag behind their competitors averaging 21 and 20 MPG, respectively.

The 2011 Toyota Avalon’s interior screams luxury from the minute you step inside. The dashboard has been upgraded to look more ergonomic and now looks refined and sophisticated. The touchscreen display unit sits centrally and features a digital unit beneath that displays vital information pertaining to the air conditioning and temperature. The wooden accents on the central console and dashboard look upmarket and plush and so does the standard leather upholstery.

In terms of space, both the front and rear-seat passengers receive abundant space for a leisurely ride. Even with three adults seated at the rear, the cabin will not reek of a claustrophobic environment. The only visible we then see is that the front seats might be a bit flat as per few passengers and also that the rear seats do not fold down to increase the existing 14.4 cubic feet of cargo space.

When compared to the competitors, the 2011 Buick Lacrosse has almost proportional space for both the rows, while the Nissan Maxima has restricted movement at the rear due to its cramped legroom. In terms of the cargo capacity, it is the Ford Taurus that has a total trunk volume of 20.1 cubic feet, without cutting into the rear seat room, leads the segment. While space differs on each sedan, the refinement of each cabin is noteworthy.

Some of the salient interior features of the 2011 Toyota Avalon include:

• 8-way powered driver seat with lumbar support
• 4-way powered passenger seat
• Dual-zone Climate Control
• Interior Air Filtration
• Speed-proportional Steering Wheel
• Cruise Control

How intuitive is the infotainment system of the 2011 Toyota Avalon?

The 2011 Toyota Avalon comes equipped with an ultra-modern infotainment system that is user-friendly and highly intuitive. With the base trim, it gets Bluetooth Connectivity and a 9-speaker sound system. While the Limited trim replaces the base sound system with a 12-speaker JBL system, both trims get a navigation-compatible touchscreen system. Some of the salient infotainment features include:

• AM/FM Stereo
• Auxiliary Audio Input
• USB Connection
• Radio Data System
• Diversity Antenna
• Satellite Radio
• Voice-activated Navigation System (Optional)

Perhaps, the biggest update with the current MY comes with redesigned front and rear fascia, that allows the sedan to look statelier and more ostentatious. It looks on par with its competitors and has a domineering aura to it, making it a perfect daily driver for the business tycoons wanting to make an impression. The 2011 Toyota Avalon now features subtle design cues throughout. The head and taillamps have unsaid familiarity to them but adorn the modernity in the design with grace. The grille continues to look imposing and is cladded with chrome.

Look at it from the side and the 2011 Toyota Avalon looks extremely long. Yet it sports a rather short wheelbase of 111 inches in comparison. It is also less wide and tall than its competitors measuring 72.8 inches and 58.5 inches, respectively. The ground clearance feels fitting for a sedan in its segment and its lighter curb weight of 3,572 lbs aids its performance.

The 2011 Ford Taurus is the longest sedan and sports a wheelbase of 112.9 inches. It is also the tallest and widest sedan measuring 60.7 and 76.2 inches. On the other hand, the Buick Lacrosse is the heaviest vehicle weighing 4,045lbs, while the Nissan Maxima that has a curb weight of 3,540lbs is the lightest. In terms of design, all four sedans look rather professional vehicles with defined curves and edges without an iota of quirkiness in design.

Some of the salient exterior features of the 2011 Toyota Avalon include:

• Fog Lights
• Sunroof
• Paint Protection Film
• Rear Spoiler
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Xenon Headlights (available with Limited trim only)

The 2011 Toyota Avalon has not been tested by the NHTSA, but it bags the “Top Safety Pick” recognition from IIHS, which speaks volumes about its capabilities. It is durable and sturdy in its build and comes with a large number of standard features that make it undeniably reliable. These include side airbags, anti-lock disc brakes, and integrated turn signal mirrors. Some of the other standout safety specifications include:

• Anti-theft Alarm System
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Self-leveling Headlights
• Engine Immobilizer
• Dusk-sensing Headlamps
• Electronic Brakeforce Distribution

The 2011 Toyota Avalon is a niche sedan that caters to a targeted set of buyers wanting to be in the lap of luxury without sacrificing performance and space. In its fit and finish, it reeks of sophistication and has a superior feel to it. It looks palatial when on the go and commands attention with its redesigned exterior. Even on the inside, the commodious cabin that features a clutter-free dash setup alongside class-leading specifications makes the sedan an alluring proposition. However, its expensive price tag is a barrier in its likability, and if you are restricted by budget, the Ford Taurus could be one vehicle to look out for.