Introduction: The 2022 Toyota Avalon – Setting the Standard for Full-Size Sedans
The 2022 Toyota Avalon continues its legacy as Toyota’s flagship full-size sedan, embodying refinement, style, and advanced technology. For drivers seeking a vehicle that offers both luxurious comfort and dynamic performance, the 2022 Toyota Avalon stands out with its coupe-inspired design, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of safety features. This model year brings exciting updates, reinforcing the Avalon’s position as a leader in its class and a compelling choice for discerning sedan buyers.
What’s New for the 2022 Avalon? Key Updates and Highlights
The 2022 Toyota Avalon introduces several noteworthy enhancements, further elevating its appeal. These updates focus on style, safety, and model variety, ensuring there’s a perfect Avalon for every preference.
2022 Avalon XSE Hybrid Nightshade Edition: A Bold New Look
A striking addition to the lineup is the 2022 Toyota Avalon XSE Hybrid Nightshade Edition. This new trim level injects a dose of sporty aggression into the Avalon Hybrid, featuring blacked-out exterior accents, unique wheels, and distinctive styling cues. For those wanting to make a statement while prioritizing fuel efficiency, the XSE Hybrid Nightshade is a compelling option.
Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ and Rear Seat Reminder for All 2022 Avalon Models
Safety remains a paramount concern for Toyota, and the 2022 Toyota Avalon reflects this commitment. For 2022, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) becomes standard across all Avalon grades. This advanced suite of safety technologies now includes Road Sign Assist (RSA) and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), in addition to existing features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Automatic High Beams. Furthermore, Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder is also now standard, providing an extra layer of security for families.
2022 Avalon Configurations: V6 and Hybrid Options Across Six Grades
The 2022 Toyota Avalon provides a wide array of choices to suit different driving needs and preferences. With six distinct configurations, buyers can select between powerful V6 and efficient Hybrid powertrains. The lineup includes the XLE, Limited, Touring, XLE Hybrid, XSE Hybrid Nightshade, and Limited Hybrid grades, offering a spectrum of features and styles. Whether you prioritize exhilarating performance or exceptional fuel economy, the 2022 Toyota Avalon has a configuration tailored for you.
Design and Styling of the 2022 Toyota Avalon: Coupe-Inspired Elegance
The fifth-generation Avalon’s design philosophy emphasizes emotional appeal and sophisticated aesthetics. The 2022 Toyota Avalon retains this striking coupe-like silhouette, achieved through taut lines and the low center of gravity afforded by the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform.
Exterior Design: Differentiating the 2022 Avalon Grades (XLE, Limited, Touring, Nightshade)
While all 2022 Toyota Avalon models share a common design DNA, subtle yet distinct exterior elements differentiate each grade. The XLE and Limited grades showcase a dark gray front grille with a chrome border, machined-silver LED headlight bezels, and body-colored mirror housings, conveying a sense of understated elegance. Wheel designs vary from 17 to 19 inches, complemented by chrome badging and dual exhaust tips.
Conversely, the XSE Hybrid Nightshade and Touring grades project a sportier persona. These models feature a piano-black mesh grille, machine-finished and gloss-black wheels, black mirror housings and headlight bezels, a black trunk lid spoiler, and blacked-out exterior badging. The Touring grade further distinguishes itself with a grade-specific lower diffuser and quad exhaust pipes.
2022 Avalon Color Palette: Expressing Sophistication and Drama
The 2022 Toyota Avalon is available in a range of compelling exterior colors designed to accentuate its sophisticated design. Choices include Supersonic Red, Opulent Amber, Midnight Black Metallic, Wind Chill Pearl, Ruby Flare Pearl, Harbor Gray Metallic, Ice Edge, and Celestial Silver Metallic. Interior color options vary by grade and include Graphite, Cognac, and Black Perforated Premium Leather, as well as Black, Harvest Beige, and Graphite SofTex®. The XSE Hybrid Nightshade interior features Black Perforated SofTex and Ultrasuede, reinforcing its sporty character.
Aerodynamic Efficiency: How the 2022 Avalon Cheats the Wind
Beyond its visual appeal, the 2022 Toyota Avalon‘s design is highly functional. Lateral front vents, a rear spoiler, and extensive underbody paneling contribute to an impressive 0.27 coefficient of drag. This aerodynamic efficiency translates to improved fuel economy and reduced wind noise, enhancing both driving pleasure and efficiency. The connected, three-dimensional LED taillamps not only add to the aesthetic but also emphasize the Avalon’s wide and stable stance.
Interior Comfort and Technology in the 2022 Toyota Avalon
The 2022 Toyota Avalon‘s interior is a sanctuary of comfort and technology, designed to enhance every journey. From its spacious cabin to its intuitive tech features, the Avalon prioritizes the driver and passenger experience.
Spacious and Luxurious Cabin: A Focus on Passenger Comfort
Continuing Avalon’s tradition, the 2022 Toyota Avalon offers exceptional outward visibility and interior roominess. Thin pillars and a broad windshield create an open and airy feeling for both front and rear passengers. Rear seat passengers enjoy generous dimensions, including substantial shoulder room (57.1 inches), legroom (40.3 inches for V6, 40.4 inches for Hybrid), and headroom (37.5 inches for V6, 37.1 inches for Hybrid).
The interior design emphasizes elegance through purposeful placement of controls and the use of authentic materials. Yamaha-sourced wood trim, aluminum accents, and soft-touch materials create a premium ambiance. Rear passengers are well-catered to with air vents, available seat heaters, and USB charging ports. Trim materials vary by grade, with engineered wood in the XLE, genuine Yamaha wood in the Limited, and aluminum in the Touring. Seating surfaces range from SofTex® to premium leather and Ultrasuede®, each with unique stitching and patterns, further differentiating the grades.
High-Tech Features and User-Friendly Interface in the 2022 Toyota Avalon
The 2022 Toyota Avalon seamlessly integrates advanced technology with a user-friendly interface. A slim center stack houses a 9-inch Toyota Audio system, managing audio, navigation, and climate control. The system’s intuitive touchscreen operates with smartphone-like gestures. A slide-open eBin below the panel includes a 12-volt plug and an available wireless Qi mobile device charger. Multiple USB-C ports are conveniently located in both the front and rear consoles.
The Avalon’s steering wheel features satin chrome accents and multifunction controls. A 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) in the instrument cluster provides essential vehicle data, navigation prompts, and settings for TSS 2.5+ and other available features. Hybrid models feature a similar 7-inch screen, augmented with a Hybrid System Indicator. Limited and Touring grades boast a 10-inch Head-Up Display (HUD), projecting key information onto the windshield, the largest in its class.
2022 Avalon Connectivity: Smartwatch Integration and Premium Audio
Connectivity is a key focus in the 2022 Toyota Avalon. XLE, XLE Hybrid, and XSE Hybrid Nightshade grades come standard with Toyota Audio Plus, featuring Connected Navigation App and App Suite. The system includes a 9-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM® (with trial), Android Auto®, Apple CarPlay®, and Amazon Alexa® compatibility. Limited and Touring grades feature Toyota Premium Audio with JBL®, a 1200-watt, 14-speaker system, the most speakers in the segment, and optional on other trims. Both audio systems can be equipped with embedded Dynamic Navigation.
Connected Services include Safety Connect, Service Connect, Remote Connect (all with trial periods), and Wi-Fi Connect Powered by Verizon (trial included). Toyota Remote Connect enables smartwatch or Amazon Alexa device integration, allowing drivers to control door locks, engine start, and fuel level remotely via compatible devices.
Performance and Powertrain Options for the 2022 Toyota Avalon
The 2022 Toyota Avalon offers a choice of powertrains, catering to diverse driving preferences. Whether you desire robust V6 power or the efficiency of a hybrid, the Avalon delivers a refined and engaging driving experience.
2022 Avalon V6 Engine: Powerful Performance and Efficiency
The front-wheel-drive 2022 Toyota Avalon V6 models are powered by a 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine. This engine utilizes Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system, combining direct and port injection, and VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) for intake and VVT-i for exhaust. The VVT-iW system allows the engine to operate in the Atkinson cycle for enhanced fuel efficiency.
The V6 produces 301 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. of torque. Despite its power, the V6 Avalon achieves impressive fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of 26 MPG combined for the XLE grade and 25 MPG combined for other V6 grades. Drive mode selection (ECO, NORMAL, SPORT) is standard on XLE and Limited, with Touring adding SPORT+ and CUSTOM modes. SPORT+ mode enhances engine sound through sport-modified exhaust baffles, Intake Sound Generator (ISG), Active Noise Control (ANC), and Engine Sound Enhancement (ESE), all of which can be deactivated for a quieter ride.
2022 Avalon Hybrid: Exceptional Fuel Economy and Smooth Driving
For unparalleled fuel efficiency, the 2022 Toyota Avalon Hybrid models combine a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine with an electric motor as part of the Toyota Hybrid System (THS II). This system delivers a total output of 215 horsepower. The Avalon Hybrid achieves remarkable EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 44 MPG combined for the XLE Hybrid and 43 MPG combined for other Hybrid grades, rivaling subcompact cars.
The Avalon Hybrid features an Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). The XSE Hybrid Nightshade includes Sequential Shiftmatic technology, allowing simulated gear shifts via paddle shifters or the console lever. The Lithium-ion battery pack is located under the rear seat, maintaining trunk space parity with gas models. Drive modes include NORMAL, ECO, EV, and SPORT. ECO mode maximizes fuel efficiency, while SPORT mode sharpens responsiveness. Auto Glide Control (AGC) further enhances fuel efficiency by reducing engine braking for extended coasting.
Driving Dynamics: Ride and Handling of the 2022 Toyota Avalon
The 2022 Toyota Avalon excels in ride comfort and handling. Its multi-link rear suspension, wider rear track, and low center of gravity contribute to a stable and planted feel. The Touring grade features a sport-tuned suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), an electronically controlled damping system typically found in luxury vehicles.
AVS continuously adjusts damping force up to 650 levels in just 20 milliseconds, optimizing both handling agility and ride comfort. NORMAL mode prioritizes comfort, while SPORT+ mode enhances handling and responsiveness, also quickening throttle response, increasing steering feedback, and amplifying engine sound.
Safety and Security Features of the 2022 Toyota Avalon
The 2022 Toyota Avalon prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ Standard on Every 2022 Avalon
As mentioned, Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS 2.5+) is standard across all 2022 Toyota Avalon grades. This suite includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Road Sign Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Rear Cross Traffic Braking are also standard on all models.
Advanced Safety Package Options for Enhanced Protection
Limited, Limited Hybrid, and Touring grades offer an optional Advanced Safety Package, adding a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan and Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking, further enhancing situational awareness and collision avoidance.
Comprehensive Safety Systems and Warranty for Peace of Mind
All 2022 Toyota Avalon models are equipped with 10 airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System, encompassing Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology. An anti-theft system with alarm and engine immobilizer is also standard.
Toyota’s comprehensive warranty includes a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 60-month corrosion warranty. Hybrid components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery for 10 years/150,000 miles. ToyotaCare provides complimentary scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.
2022 Toyota Avalon Pricing and Availability: Find Your Perfect Model
The 2022 Toyota Avalon is available at Toyota dealerships nationwide. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP) starts at $36,375 for the XLE grade, excluding Delivery, Processing, and Handling (DPH). Pricing varies by grade and options. With its blend of luxury, performance, and safety, the 2022 Toyota Avalon represents exceptional value in the full-size sedan segment. As it enters its final year of production, now is the time to experience the pinnacle of Toyota sedan refinement.
Conclusion: The 2022 Toyota Avalon – The Epitome of Full-Size Sedan Excellence
The 2022 Toyota Avalon solidifies its position as a top-tier full-size sedan, offering a compelling combination of sophisticated design, luxurious comfort, advanced technology, and robust performance. With its range of grades, including the sporty XSE Hybrid Nightshade and fuel-efficient Hybrid models, the 2022 Toyota Avalon caters to a wide spectrum of buyers. Its comprehensive safety features, refined driving dynamics, and Toyota’s renowned reliability make it a standout choice for those seeking a premium sedan experience. The 2022 Toyota Avalon is more than just a car; it’s a statement of style and substance, representing the zenith of Toyota’s sedan craftsmanship.
