Toyota Saying Farewell to the Avalon Sedan

 Today's test-drive model offers a tribute to a venerable sedan in the Toyota lineup that will be going away next model year. The 2022 Toyota Avalon, a full-size family sedan, has been a steady competitor in the family-car segment for many years. It now appears to be falling victim, though, to the swelling popularity of crossover SUVs, a movement that has spelled the end for a number of sedans.

The Avalon has, under the hood, a standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine that makes 301 horsepower and is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. 

The Avalon comes in three trim levels: XLE, Limited and Touring. 

Fuel efficiency for the XLE trim is an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city, 32 highway. The Limited and Touring trims are rated at 22 and 31.

The Avalon offers a smooth ride and a pleasant interior. And in recent years, even its exterior styling has drawn praise, as Toyota updated it to make it less stodgy and boring. 

But alas, as more buyers turn away from sedans, Toyota has decided to move on from the Avalon. It reportedly will be replaced by another sedan in the lineup, though, so stayed tuned for more developments.

The Avalon starts at around $37,000 and ranges to around $44,000.

For a nice family sedan, check out the Avalon - while you still can.