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Is Avalon FWD or rwd?

The Avalon is front-wheel drive (FWD). It has never been offered with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or an official all-wheel-drive (AWD) option in its U.S. market history.


Throughout its lifespan, the Avalon has relied on a front-drive layout shared with the Camry family, prioritizing interior space, comfort, and overall efficiency. Toyota kept the Avalon as a large, comfort-oriented sedan rather than a performance-focused vehicle, and while some Camry trims offered AWD, the Avalon never did. The model was discontinued after the 2022 model year in the United States, with no AWD variant released during its run.


Drivetrain layout and implications


All Avalon configurations—gas and hybrid alike—use front-wheel drive. This choice kept the sedan roomy and efficient, aligning with the Avalon’s positioning as a comfortable, flagship family sedan rather than a vehicle aimed at all-season performance or off-road capability.


Context with related models


For comparison, some Camry variants have offered AWD in certain years, highlighting the difference between the Avalon’s design goals and its platform siblings. The Avalon itself did not receive an AWD option, consistent with its market focus on ride quality and reliability.


Model years and current status


The Avalon was produced from the mid-1990s through 2022 in the United States. Toyota discontinued the nameplate after the 2022 model year, and there was no AWD version offered at any point in its U.S. history. In newer years, Toyota has shifted emphasis toward other sedans and crossover models, with the Crown taking a broader flagship role in some markets.


Summary


Bottom line: The Toyota Avalon is and has always been a front-wheel-drive sedan. It does not have a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive option in its production history, and it was discontinued after the 2022 model year in the U.S.

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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.