Is Avalon better than Camry?
For most buyers today, the Toyota Camry is the better pick. The Avalon, while larger and more luxurious, is no longer sold new, which shifts its appeal to the used-car market and to buyers who specifically value space. This article compares the two models in terms of size, efficiency, technology, and ownership costs to help readers decide which sedan fits their needs.
Current status: new models vs used market
The Avalon was discontinued after the 2022 model year in the United States, leaving the Camry as Toyota's core midsize sedan. Camry remains widely available in new condition with multiple trims and powertrains, including efficient hybrids. If you require a new car today, the Camry is the practical option. If you're shopping used, Avalon can still be appealing for space and comfort, but prices and parts availability can vary with age.
Availability notes
In regions outside the U.S., Toyota references may differ; always check local dealer inventories and model years since Avalon listings are limited in North America post-2022.
Head-to-head strengths
To compare fairly, consider these core strengths for each model.
Key strengths of Avalon:
- Greater interior space, especially rear-seat legroom and trunk capacity
- Quieter, smoother ride quality on long highway trips
- Roomier, more premium interior feel in higher trims
- Available V6 engine in earlier generations and robust hybrid options in various years
Conclusion for Avalon list: Avalon excels when you prioritize space, comfort, and a more luxurious ambience, particularly in a used-model context where its size remains a key selling point.
Camry strengths and reasons it remains a strong choice
Camry is designed for everyday practicality, value, and efficiency, with modern safety tech and strong dealer support.
- Wide availability of new units and trims, including efficient hybrid versions
- Better real-world fuel economy, especially with hybrid configurations
- More up-to-date technology and safety features across the lineup
- Lower total cost of ownership and easier access to parts and service
Conclusion for Camry list: Camry’s balance of efficiency, price, and ongoing support makes it the default pick for most buyers today.
Special cases: when Avalon might still be appealing
If your priority is a larger sedan with a roomy cabin and you are shopping the used market, the Avalon can be attractive, especially if you find a well-maintained model with a desirable trim. For fleet buyers or longtime Toyota loyalists who want space without sacrificing reliability, Avalon remains a credible option in the used market.
Bottom line
In short, the Camry is typically the smarter choice for most current buyers due to its ongoing production, superior efficiency, and better value proposition. The Avalon remains relevant primarily for buyers who place a premium on interior space and comfort and who are eyeing used models.
Summary
Is Avalon better than Camry? Not in a universal sense; it depends on needs. Camry suits most buyers in 2025 for daily use, efficiency, and value, while Avalon offers a larger, more comfortable ride but sits outside the new-car market. Readers should weigh their priorities, check current inventories, and test-drive both to determine the better fit.
Is Avalon considered a luxury car?
The 2022 Toyota Avalon full-size sedan is a luxury car for people who don't want to pay luxury car prices.
Is Camry or Avalon bigger?
Yes, the Avalon is bigger than the Camry, as it is classified as a full-size sedan while the Camry is a midsize sedan. The Avalon offers more passenger volume, a larger trunk, and more rear legroom than the Camry.
Avalon vs. Camry by the numbers (approximate for recent models)
| Feature | Avalon | Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Class | Full-size | Midsize |
| Overall Length | Longer | Shorter |
| Passenger Volume | Up to 104.3104.3104.3 cubic feet | Around 99.399.399.3 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume | Up to 16.0916.0916.09 cubic feet | Around 15.115.115.1 cubic feet |
| Rear Legroom | More spacious | Less spacious |
| Wheelbase | Longer | Shorter |
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Is Avalon or Camry more reliable?
Overall Reliability Rating
Repairs are less severe and less frequent than the average car, so the Camry is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road. The Toyota Avalon Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 3rd out of 12 for fullsize cars.
What year to stay away from Toyota Avalon?
The Toyota Avalon years to avoid are primarily 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2013, and 2014 due to reports of issues like cracked dashboards, engine oil leaks, premature brake wear, transmission problems, and faulty VVTi oil lines. Specifically, the 2006 model is known for several significant problems, including an oil leak issue that could lead to engine damage, and the 2013 and 2014 models are criticized for a rougher ride and electrical issues.
This video discusses the best and worst Toyota Avalon years to own: 51sCar MavenYouTube · Jul 23, 2025
Specific years to approach with caution
- 2005: Has been associated with numerous recalls and issues, particularly concerning brakes, electrical accessories, and other components.
- 2006: Noted for multiple problems including engine oil leaks (potentially from a faulty oil line), excessive oil consumption, transmission hesitations, and dashboard cracks.
- 2007: Owners report issues like cracked dashboards, exhaust system problems, and paint delamination.
- 2008: Has been subject to recalls and complaints about exhaust issues, dashboard cracks, paint defects, and wheel bearing wear.
- 2011: Is listed as a model year with higher reported issues.
- 2013: Has a high number of complaints related to engine, transmission, and electrical steering problems.
- 2014: Faced complaints about a less luxurious ride compared to previous generations, early suspension wear, and infotainment system glitches.
This video provides a buyer's guide for the Toyota Avalon, including potential issues with 2013-2018 models: 1mDiscerning CarsYouTube · Dec 16, 2023
Key issues to look for
- Engine and Oil Leaks: The 2006 model is especially notorious for a VVTi oil line that can rupture and cause engine damage.
- Dashboard Cracks: This is a common complaint across several model years, including the 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 models.
- Transmission Problems: Some 2013 and 2015 models reported transmission issues, with some sources noting transmission rebuilds are common for 2015 models.
- Suspension and Ride: The 2014 model was noted for trading plushness for a sharper ride, with some early wear reported in the suspension.
- Electrical Issues: Problems have been reported in various years, including headlight issues in 2013, a problematic blind spot monitor system in 2013, and infotainment glitches in 2014.
