Do Toyota Avalon back seats fold down?
Yes. The Avalon’s rear seats fold down to expand cargo space, typically via a 60/40 split that lets you fold one side or both sections.
Across most model years, you’ll find independent folding of the left and right rear seatbacks, with a release mechanism on the seatbacks or from the trunk depending on generation. This feature has been a staple of the Avalon to help you haul longer items when the rear passenger area isn’t needed.
How the folding seats work
Split-fold capability and release locations
Understanding the basic mechanics helps you maximize cargo. The seatbacks fold forward to create a flat loading surface, and the center portion can often be used as a pass-through when folded down.
- Locate the release lever or strap on the top outer edge of each rear seatback (left and right).
- Pull or press the release to fold the corresponding seatback forward toward the trunk.
- Fold one side or both sides down to create extra cargo space; the center armrest may also fold down and serve as a pass-through when the seats are down.
- Make sure the folded seats latch securely and that any cargo sits flat against the folded surface.
- Return the seats to the upright position if you need passenger space, ensuring nothing interferes with seat operation.
Using these steps, you can maximize the Avalon’s cargo flexibility for items like furniture components, sporting gear, or long loads. The exact release location and method can vary by year and trim, so consult the owner's manual for your specific model if needed.
Seat-folding by generation and trim
What to expect across generations
Most Avalon generations offer a 60/40 split rear bench, allowing you to fold one side while keeping the other side up for passengers. The release mechanisms and their placements can differ slightly between generations and trims, but the core function remains the same.
- 60/40 split rear seatbacks are common across most Avalons, enabling independent folding of the left and right sections.
- The center armrest in the rear seat typically folds down and may provide a pass-through to the trunk when the seats are folded.
- Release mechanisms are usually located on the top rear edge of the seatbacks; some generations also offer trunk-mounted releases or simplified levers for ease of use.
- Some very early or base trims may use simpler straps or levers, but modern Avalons generally use more accessible releases.
In practice, folding the rear seats is straightforward and remains a consistent feature across the Avalon lineup, making it possible to accommodate longer items when needed.
Why the feature matters for everyday use
Having folding rear seats gives Avalon owners flexibility for weekend projects, travel, or grocery trips that require extra cargo length. It’s a practical feature that combines passenger comfort with cargo versatility without needing a different vehicle.
Summary
The Toyota Avalon typically includes 60/40 split folding rear seats across most model years, allowing independent folding of each side to expand cargo space. Release mechanisms vary slightly by generation and trim, but the function remains the same: fold the seatbacks forward to create a flat loading area, with the center armrest sometimes providing a pass-through when folded. Always check your specific year and trim for exact steps and locations, but you can generally rely on a straightforward folding process to increase cargo capacity.
