Is Toyota Avalon a safe car?
The Avalon is generally regarded as a very safe large sedan, backed by strong crash-test results and a long history of driver-assist technologies. Safety ratings can vary by model year and trim, so it’s important to check the exact configuration of any used Avalon you’re considering. Note that Toyota discontinued Avalon sales in North America after the 2022 model year, so buyers looking new will find limited availability, while used examples remain common and well-regarded for safety.
This article examines official safety ratings, the driver-assist features that come with the Avalon, and practical considerations for buyers of used models. It draws on data from major safety organizations and industry guidance to provide a current, balanced view.
Safety ratings and standards
Safety ratings from independent agencies help buyers compare how well a vehicle protects occupants and pedestrians, as well as how effective its active safety systems are. Below is a snapshot of how recent Avalons have performed with two major safety organizations.
IIHS ratings
The following overview reflects recent Avalon results as reported by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Results can vary by year and by headlight configuration.
- Overall crashworthiness: Often classified as Top Safety Pick+ or Top Safety Pick in recent years, depending on headlights and available equipment.
- Front crash prevention: The Avalon’s optional or standard forward-collision mitigation has typically earned strong ratings (Superior or Advanced) in IIHS tests when equipped with the automatic braking system.
- Headlights: Performance varies by trim and headlight type; higher trims with LED headlights tend to rate better, while some base headlights may be Acceptable or lower.
- Small overlap front tests: Generally rated Good, indicating solid protection in that specific crash scenario.
In short, IIHS has recognized recent Avalon models for strong overall safety performance, with results influenced by the chosen headlights and safety packages.
NHTSA ratings
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides five-star ratings for overall safety and for individual crash tests. Here is what buyers typically see for recent Avalon models.
- Overall safety rating: High, with many recent model years earning five stars overall when equipped with the standard safety package.
- Frontal crash protection: Strong ratings in front-impact tests on configurations with modern safety systems.
- Side crash protection: High marks in side-impact testing across recent generations.
- Rollover resistance: Competitive ratings for a large sedan, reflecting stability and restraint performance.
As with IIHS, actual NHTSA scores can vary by year and by trim, so checking the specific model year’s rating is advisable for precise numbers.
Safety features and technology
Beyond test results, the Avalon’s real-world safety often hinges on its available driver-assist and passive safety features. The model line has long paired strong structure with an advanced safety suite.
- Toyota Safety Sense: Most Avalons include the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which typically includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Automatic High Beams are commonly included or available, depending on year and trim.
- Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These features are standard or available on higher trims, aiding in lane changes and parking.
- Additional active safety: Features such as adaptive cruise control, intelligent brake support, and road-sign assist are present on various trims across model years, contributing to safer highway and city driving.
- Passive safety: The Avalon’s structure emphasizes crash energy management, airbags, and seat designs intended to protect occupants in a crash scenario.
Prospective buyers should confirm which safety features are present on the exact vehicle they’re considering, since equipment levels vary by year and trim.
Real-world safety and reliability
In addition to formal crash-test results, real-world safety depends on maintenance, sensor longevity, and how the car is driven. Avalons have earned reputations for durability and long-term reliability, factors that influence ongoing safety through well-maintained braking, steering, and suspension systems. For used buyers, a thorough inspection and a review of service records help ensure that critical safety components—such as brakes, tires, steering, and the braking assist system—are in good condition.
Reliability and ownership experience
Historically, the Avalon has been considered among the more reliable full-size sedans in its class, with favorable owner surveys and positive reliability assessments from major automotive publications. As with any aging vehicle, longevity depends on how well it’s been cared for, the environment in which it’s been driven, and whether recall and service campaigns have been completed.
Bottom line and buying considerations for used Avalons
For shoppers considering a used Toyota Avalon, safety remains a strong selling point, but there are practical steps to ensure you’re getting a model that will protect you and your passengers for years to come.
- Check the model year’s safety equipment: Confirm whether the car has Toyota Safety Sense features installed, and verify the presence and functioning of automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
- Review crash-test results for the exact year: Look up IIHS and NHTSA ratings for the specific model year and trim to understand any differences in equipment or performance.
- Inspect headlights and visibility: Since headlight performance can affect IIHS ratings, ensure that headlights are in good condition and, if possible, that LED or projector-type headlights are installed.
- Assess maintenance and recall history: Check for open recalls and review maintenance records, focusing on brake components, tires, steering components, and airbag systems.
- Test-drive with safety features in mind: If possible, test the automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring to confirm they function properly and suit your driving style.
Careful due diligence can help you select a used Avalon that delivers strong safety performance, comfortable driving dynamics, and solid reliability.
Summary
The Toyota Avalon remains a strong safety choice in the used-car market, supported by high crash-test scores from major regulators and a comprehensive safety-tech package on most trims. While new Avalon sales have ended in North America, used models continue to offer modern safety features and dependable performance. Buyers should verify the exact model year’s safety equipment and test critical systems during inspection and test drive to ensure optimal protection on the road.
