The 2014 Toyota Avalon marked a significant departure from its predecessors, shedding its conservative image for a more modern and stylish design. This full-size sedan, Toyota’s flagship offering, competes with the likes of the Chevrolet Impala, Kia Cadenza, Hyundai Azera, and Ford Taurus, offering a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and technology. This article delves into the features and capabilities of the 2014 Avalon, highlighting what makes it a standout in its class.
A Bold New Design Language
The 2014 Avalon’s exterior is a significant departure from previous generations. The graceful, flowing roofline, the sculpted beltline, and the pronounced rear fenders contribute to a more dynamic and engaging presence. This design language extends to the interior, with a modern instrument panel and capacitive touch controls replacing traditional buttons for a cleaner, more contemporary look. High-quality materials, including supple leather with real stitching in higher trims, further enhance the Avalon’s premium feel. The cabin is notably more upscale than that of the Camry, showcasing the Avalon’s flagship status.
Powerful Performance and Impressive Efficiency
The 2014 Avalon offers two powertrain options: a smooth and potent 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with electric motors for a total output of 200 horsepower. The V6 delivers strong acceleration and effortless cruising, while the hybrid variant prioritizes fuel efficiency without sacrificing responsiveness. The Avalon Hybrid boasts an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of 40 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. Both powertrains provide a refined and composed driving experience, a significant improvement over the previous generation.
Spacious and Comfortable Interior
The 2014 Avalon boasts a spacious and comfortable cabin, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The front seats are supportive and available with ventilation in higher trims. The rear seats are particularly noteworthy, offering excellent comfort and support for adults, rivaling some of the best in the segment. The trunk is generously sized, providing 16 cubic feet of cargo space in the V6 models and 14 cubic feet in the Hybrid.
Advanced Safety Features
Safety is a priority in the 2014 Avalon, evident in its comprehensive suite of safety features and near-perfect crash test ratings. Standard safety features include front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as front knee airbags. Available features include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and a pre-collision system. These features provide added peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Trim Levels and Features
The 2014 Avalon is available in several trim levels: XLE, XLE Premium, XLE Touring, and XLE Limited, with hybrid variants available for all but the base XLE. Even the base XLE is well-equipped, offering features like power accessories and a comfortable interior. Higher trims add luxuries like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, premium audio systems, and advanced safety technologies. The top-of-the-line Limited model offers a truly luxurious experience, rivaling some luxury brands in terms of features and refinement.
Conclusion
The 2014 Toyota Avalon successfully redefined the full-size sedan, offering a compelling combination of style, comfort, performance, and technology. Its bold design, refined driving experience, spacious interior, and advanced safety features make it a strong contender in its segment. Whether you prioritize power or efficiency, the 2014 Avalon delivers a premium driving experience that caters to a wide range of needs and preferences.
