Is Toyota Avalon V6 or v8?
The Toyota Avalon uses a V6 engine, and there has never been a V8 option in the lineup. The hybrid variant uses a four-cylinder engine with electric motors, and the model was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2022 model year, with Toyota guiding buyers toward newer flagship sedans like the Crown.
To understand why this matters, it helps to review how the Avalon’s powertrains evolved across generations, what the current market looks like, and how Toyota positioned the car within its lineup. There has never been a V8 Avalon, and the latest generations lean on V6 core power with a hybrid alternative focused on efficiency rather than larger-displacement V8 performance.
Powertrain history of the Avalon
Below is a concise overview of the engines offered across Avalon generations, illustrating that a V8 was never part of the lineup.
- First generation (1995–1999): 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)
- Second generation (2000–2004): 3.0L V6
- Third generation (2005–2012): 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)
- Fourth generation (2013–2018): 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)
- Fifth generation (2019–2022): 3.5L V6 (2GR-FE) and Avalon Hybrid with a 2.5L four-cylinder combined with electric motor
The Avalon never offered a V8; the hybrid variant used a four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors, delivering a blend of performance and efficiency rather than any V8 advantage.
Current status and what it means for buyers
As of the early 2020s, Toyota ended Avalon production in the U.S. after the 2022 model year. The Crown has been positioned as a broader flagship alternative in several markets, while the Avalon name is no longer used for new models in North America. For buyers, that means no new Avalons are available with any engine, including V6 or V8, and the model lives on only in the used market or as part of Toyota’s wider family lineup change.
Key powertrain takeaways for prospective buyers:
- Non-hybrid Avalons rely on a 3.5L V6 for most of the lineup, with horsepower generally in the upper 200s and a shift toward modern transmissions across generations.
- Avalon Hybrid combines a 2.5L inline-4 Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor for combined efficiency and a different driving character than the V6.
- There were never any V8 variants of the Avalon.
- By 2022, the model was discontinued in the U.S.; used examples remain but are not a current new-car option.
In short, if V8 power is the goal, the Avalon is not the model to choose. Toyota redirected its large-sedan strategy toward other models and technologies, including the Crown in many markets.
Why Toyota chose a V6 over a V8
Toyota has historically prioritized a balance of power, efficiency and packaging in its front-engine sedans. The V6 provided ample horsepower and torque for a full-size sedan without the weight and fuel penalties of a V8. The hybrid option further reduced the need for a larger displacement engine by delivering strong performance with improved efficiency, aligning with evolving buyer preferences and regulatory pressures.
Summary
The Toyota Avalon has always used a V6 engine in its gasoline variants, with a hybrid option that uses a four-cylinder engine plus electric motors. A V8 option was never offered. The model was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2022 model year, and Toyota has leaned on newer designs like the Crown in the flagship space. For buyers seeking V8 power from Toyota, the Avalon is not the route to take; alternatives within Toyota’s lineup or other brands should be explored.
Is the Avalon just a Camry?
The Avalon is just a little bigger than the Camry. It fits into the full-size sedan market where the Camry is a mid-size car.
Is the Toyota Avalon a 4 cylinder?
2021 Toyota Avalon MPG
The XLE trim is available in either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The XLE trim with the 4-cylinder engine has a city MPG of 25, a highway MPG of 34, and a combined MPG of 28.
Is the Toyota Avalon a V6 or V8?
The 2021 Toyota Avalon focuses on comfort but still manages to deliver some thrills from its powerful V6 engine.
What engine is in a Toyota Avalon?
The "Avalon engine" most commonly refers to the engine used in the Toyota Avalon sedan, which has historically featured a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine, though some models also offer a 2.5L four-cylinder engine, sometimes with a hybrid option. The V6 produces around 301 horsepower, while the 2.5L four-cylinder has around 205 horsepower. The last generation of the Avalon (2019-2022) offered both the 3.5L V6 and a hybrid powertrain, while newer all-wheel-drive models used the 2.5L four-cylinder.
You can watch this video to learn more about the engine options in the 2020 Toyota Avalon: 1mToyota USAYouTube · Oct 7, 2024
Gasoline engines
- 3.5L V6: A powerful option, typically producing 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It is generally paired with front-wheel drive.
- 2.5L four-cylinder: Available on some models, producing up to 205 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. This engine is often paired with all-wheel drive.
Hybrid engine
- A hybrid powertrain, using a 2.5L engine with a lithium-ion battery, is also available.
Transmission
- Most Avalon models use an 8-speed automatic transmission.
This video demonstrates the engine of the 2nd Gen Toyota Avalon: 57sBern on CarsYouTube · May 3, 2025
Performance and features
- Driving modes: Available modes like Sport, Eco, and Normal allow drivers to adjust performance settings.
- TRD model: The TRD (Toyota Racing Development) version of the Avalon features a sport-tuned suspension, thicker braces, and a performance-oriented exhaust system.
- Suspension: The Avalon features a fully independent suspension with an available Adaptive Variable Suspension system that can adjust damping for comfort and handling.
