
Toyota positions the Avalon in a strange place.
With a bottom-line price of about $39,000 for the top Limited model with a few options like the nav system, the Avalon costs more than the Lexus ES 350.
Although Toyota doesn't want to think you’d also cross-shop the Lexus, there’s no reason not to.
Compared to the Avalon, the ES has a similar feel, with a very quiet interior and smooth, sophisticated powertrain character.
The Lucerne and the Azera favor comfort over performance, and both have 3.8-liter V-6 engines that aren't as responsive as the Taurus.
The Lucerne is also available in Super trim, which adds a 292-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8.
The Taurus offers a slightly more performance feel (an SHO performance version is available), but its real strength is safety—it’s probably the top-rated large sedan, all considering, for safety.
Some shoppers might like the redesign the Taurus received for 2010, but the seating position and backseat room take a turn for the worse according to some.
Another alternative is the Chrysler 300, which comes in an economical rear-wheel-drive base model or with all-wheel drive in upscale Touring trim.
The 300 might not be as appealing to the crowd that favors ride comfort and space above all else; it's less roomy inside and not nearly as refined and quiet, though there’s a powerful HEMI V-8 offered.
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Quick Specs | |||
The 2010 Toyota Avalon offers a Lexus-caliber interior experience, at a Toyota price. |
Comfortable and roomy with classic styling, the 2010 Buick Lucerne is still a valid choice as a premium sedan. |
The 2010 Ford Taurus punches up Ford’s reputation for quality and features, with an engaging new SHO model to boost. |
The 2010 Hyundai Azera appeals to sedan shoppers on a budget who value comfort and interior space above all else. |
MSRP From | |||
$27,945 | $29,230 | $25,170 | $24,970 |
Gas Mileage | |||
19 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||
Gas V6 | Gas V6 FlexFuel | Gas V6 | Gas V6 |
EPA Class | |||
Large | Large Car | Large Cars | Large |
Style Name | |||
4-Door Sedan XL (GS) | 4-Door Sedan CX | 4-Door Sedan SE FWD | 4-Door Sedan GLS |
Drivetrain | |||
Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | |||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | |||
4 Door Sedan | 4 Dr Sedan CX | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
Transmission | |||
Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Automatic w/OD | NA |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
2010 Toyota Avalon vs. 2010 Buick Lucerne | 2010 Toyota Avalon vs. 2010 Ford Taurus | 2010 Toyota Avalon vs. 2010 Hyundai Azera |