2014 Toyota Avalon Hybrid review

1. Gas-electric mileage 

Hybrid cars promise improved mileage because of their gas-electric powertrains, and the 2014 Toyota Avalon Hybrid delivers. All Avalon Hybrid trims share the same four-cylinder 2.5L gas engine paired with an electric motor. The system output is 200 hp, with 156 lb-ft of torque, sent to the front wheels by a continuously variable transmission. The 2014 Avalon Hybrid rolling on 17-inch wheels has an EPA-estimated 40 mpg combined. For a full-size sedan, that’s highly respectable. 

2. Feature-rich trims 

The Avalon Hybrid’s list of standard features will impress whoever rides with you. The XLE Premium trim comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start. Opt for the XLE Touring trim and you’ll gain driver’s seat and outside mirror memory systems, and foglights. The top Limited trim adds xenon headlights, automatic wipers, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, tri-zone climate control, and a rear power sunshade.  

3. Cabin technology 

Whether you’re on an interstate run, or collecting the grandparents for dinner, the Avalon Hybrid’s level of onboard technology is sure to entertain. A 6.1-inch color touchscreen audio system with eight speakers, USB, auxiliary jack, and Bluetooth^® connectivity is standard on XLE Premium trim. The XLE Touring trim adds navigation, HD Radio^®, voice commands, as well as Toyota’s Entune^™ integrated multimedia navigation and telematics system. Select the Limited trim if you like your tunes, as this includes an 11-speaker JBL^® audio setup and a seven-inch touchscreen display. 

4. Space to spare 

The Toyota Avalon Hybrid is a full-size sedan with lots of practical space. Upfront, there's 42.1 inches of legroom, with 39.1 inches in the rear, meaning adults should have plenty of room to get comfy. Lots of storage compartments throughout the cabin can hold everyone’s stuff, and the center console is a useful place to store valuables. There is ample room for a family weekend away, too, with the trunk’s 14 cu-ft of cargo space.  

5. Upscale interior 

Open any of the doors to the Avalon Hybrid and you’ll find an upscale interior made from premium-looking materials. The elegant and integrated styling of the center stack is pleasing, and the soft-touch dashboard coverings and wood trim invoke an upmarket appearance. Controls that mix traditional rotary knobs and touch-capacitive surfaces work well together, and the acoustic noise-reducing windshield, and driver and front passenger side windows make the cabin a quiet place to be on a long-distance cruise.