2015 Toyota Avalon XLE
PCAR

Standard Features
3.5L V6
6 speed shiftable auto with paddle shifters
FWD
21/31 mpg
17 Gallon fuel tank
268 hp
0-60 6.4 seconds
8 way power driver seat with lumbar support
4 way power passenger with lumbar support
Leather and both front seats heated
16.0 cubic feet trunk space
Rear view camera
6.1" touchscreen
AM/FM HD radio with SXM/ CD/ USB/ AUX and Bluetooth
8 total speakers

Pros
Powerful V6 with quick acceleration
Sport mode makes the car fun to drive
Paddle shifters are now standard
Lots of quality materials

Cons
Lacking some features of other PCAR's

Summary
A solid PCAR, better than some, not as good as others



The Avalon is slowly moving up my list of favorite PCAR's. What I like is you know what you are getting. There is no need to check the trim levels (you are getting base XLE), no need to check which engine is installed (the Fusion SE has three different engine options), and no need to check optional packages. What you are getting is a solid V6, leather, and an overall good ride.

All of the Avalons come equipped with a 3.5L V6. It provides more than enough power and quick acceleration. Paddle shifters are now standard with all Avalons.



The Avalon has three driving modes; Normal, Eco and sport. The first two are pretty explanatory. The sport mode increases the throttle and decreases the power assisted steering. In sport mode the steering is a little livelier, and handles turns with ease.

The Avalon comes with a 6.1 inch touchscreen. Like most Toyotas, the screen is very simple to use and pretty straightforward. The eight speaker sound system has a great overall sound, with good depth. It does come with SXM.



Overall the Avalon is a solid PCAR. I would take it any day over the Impala LT and Maxima. It is more comfortable than the 300. It has a larger trunk than the Lacrosse. I would take the Impala LTZ and perhaps the Taurus over the Avalon. If you can find it, the Azera is currently my favorite PCAR.