The Avalon Hybrid remains almost unchanged for the 2017 model year. The only new thing that Toyota added are the “ Safety Sense P” suite of safety features. Included are the automatic braking function (which can detect pedestrians and cars), steering assist system, lane departure warning and automatic high beams.
The Avalon is Toyotas most luxurious and expensive 4 door sedan. Meant to be a class up from the Camry, the Avalon now comes in a hybrid trim.
Performance
A 2.5 liter I-4 motor powers the Avalon Hybrid Limited. The I-4 is connected to an electric motor and continuous variable transmission. Both electric and gas motors power the front wheels. Gas mileage comes in around 40/39 at a slight penalty to performance. 0-60 comes in at 7.7 seconds, which is a full second slower than a V6 powered Avalon. But when you’re buying a hybrid, you’re not looking for Ferrari-like performance. You’re looking for a car that gets great gas mileage.
Interior
Toyota spared no expense on the quality of the materials inside the Avalon. The front seats are roomy and comfortable. Back seats can easily hold 3-4 full sized adults. The trunk has less-than-optimal cargo space, but this is made up for by the very roomy front and back seat. There is an “e-bin” in the center console which has a cable pass-through for electronic device charging. There is also a Qi wireless charging system that will work with your cell phone (assuming it is compatible).
Standard Features
There are 3 trim levels to the 2017 Avalon lineup: XLE Plus, XLE Premium and the top of the line Limited. The Limited comes standard with all of the features that the Plus and Premium have and includes xenon headlights, auto-dimming outside mirrors, tri-zone automatic climate control, upgraded cluster, 10-way power driver seat, ventilated and heated front and rear seats, rear power sunshade and an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system.
Driving Impressions
The 2017 Avalon Hybrid Limited handles great for such a large sedan. The firm ride will allow you to feel the road and makes for a great driver’s car. The ride is slightly firmer than previous model years. A quiet journey awaits you from the modest power train. There really is no road or engine noise to be heard. You might hear a droning noise from the engine bay every now and then coming from the variable automatic transmission.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 Avalon Hybrid offers something for everyone. The ride is smooth and comfortable and the materials used in the cabin are 1st class. Due to the fact that it is a hybrid, acceleration can be a tad bit slow, so if you’re looking for a bit more pep when you step on the gas, you should consider the V6 model instead. The stiffer suspension gives the Avalon a more sportier character and you might find yourself not being able to resist throwing the Avalon Hybrid into a corner or turn on a twisty road.
The 2017 Avalon Hybrid Limited starts at $42,800 and is available at your local Toyota dealership now.
