What does the Toyota Avalon compare to?
The Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan that historically faced competition from a range of large, family-friendly rivals. In brief, its main peers included Nissan Maxima, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Chevrolet Impala, Ford Taurus, Buick LaCrosse, and Hyundai Azera. Since Toyota ended Avalon production after the 2022 model year, the segment has narrowed, but the car’s competitive footprint still informs how buyers evaluate these big sedans. This article explains where the Avalon fit in that landscape and what it meant for buyers then and now.
Primary rivals in the full-size sedan segment
Here are the models most commonly cited as the Avalon’s peers over its years on sale. Note that several of these have since been discontinued or repositioned as buyers shifted toward SUVs and crossovers.
- Nissan Maxima — A front-wheel-drive full-size sedan with a strong V6 option and a sportier character that positioned itself as a direct, all-around rival to the Avalon.
- Chrysler 300 — A spacious, premium-feeling sedan with rear- or all-wheel-drive layouts and a bold styling stance, aimed at buyers seeking comfort with a touch of luxury.
- Dodge Charger — A full-size sedan with muscle-car-inspired performance, offering powerful engine options and a roomy interior for a diverse set of buyers.
- Chevrolet Impala — A long-running mainstream choice known for interior space and highway comfort, historically a staple in the full-size American sedan category.
- Ford Taurus — A traditional American full-size sedan that emphasized a quiet ride and broad feature availability, widely seen in fleet and retail channels alike.
- Buick LaCrosse — A near-luxury alternative with a refined interior and comfortable ride that appealed to buyers seeking quiet luxury in a large sedan.
- Hyundai Azera — A well-equipped entrant in the class that offered value and comfort, though it has since been discontinued.
Taken together, these models illustrate a broad spectrum of approaches within the same size class—from sportier and more performance-focused to spacious and luxurious. The Avalon tended to emphasize interior room, a smooth, comfortable ride, and reliability, serving as a calm, refined alternative to more aggressively styled or performance-oriented rivals.
Current options for new-car shoppers in the full-size class
Since the Avalon is no longer sold new in the U.S., shoppers looking for a similar footprint and feature set today generally consider the remaining full-size sedans that align with its size, ride comfort, and value. The field has narrowed as many traditional full-size models have been retired or shifted away from the sedan format.
- Nissan Maxima
- Dodge Charger
These two examples illustrate how the market has consolidated in the full-size sedan space: there are far fewer non-luxury, large-sedan options today than a decade ago, and buyers often weigh SUVs or crossovers as alternatives to traditional big sedans.
Summary
In its era, the Toyota Avalon was positioned as a roomy, comfortable, and reliable full-size sedan that sat between mainstream and near-luxury in feel and features. Its competition spanned practical American sedans, sportier Japanese options, and luxury-leaning models. With the Avalon now discontinued, the segment’s landscape has shifted toward a smaller field of new-car choices, while used Avalons remain a feasible option for buyers seeking a large, comfortable ride.
Which is bigger, Camry or Avalon?
2022 Toyota Avalon Summary. While the 2022 Toyota Camry and Avalon deliver a stellar driving experience, they do have significant differences. For one, the Camry is considered a mid-size sedan while the Avalon is considered a full-size sedan.
What cars are comparable to Toyota Avalon?
10 Toyota Avalon Competitors to Consider
- 2019 Nissan Maxima. One of the most boldly designed sedans on the market is the 2019 Nissan Maxima.
- 2019 Ford Taurus.
- 2019 Kia Cadenza.
- 2019 Cadillac CT6.
- 2019 Chrysler 300.
- 2019 Chevrolet Impala.
- 2019 Buick LaCrosse.
- 2019 Acura RLX.
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 a Toyota Avalon basically a Lexus?
In fact, the Avalon and the Lexus are essentially the same cars, the latter offering a greater degree of refinement and a more appealing design. Otherwise, there isn't a reason for the Avalon to exist in a world gone mad for SUVs.
