2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid
What’s new
- The Toyota Avalon Hybrid returns unchanged for 2020
- Part of the fifth Avalon generation introduced for 2019
Pros & Cons
- Lots of standard advanced safety features
- Efficient hybrid powertrain with little sacrifice
- Upscale cabin is quiet and roomy
- Comfortable ride quality
- No Android Auto integration
- Limited headroom front and rear
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid pricing
in Ashburn, VA
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Review
Traditionally, there have been some significant downsides to picking a hybrid version of a regular sedan. The hybrid is usually slower, less practical because of a smaller trunk (need to stick that big old battery pack somewhere) and styled with dorky-looking wheels and blue, green or teal accents.
But the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid flips that script.. While still slow — nearly 1.5 seconds slower than the non-hybrid Toyota Avalon V6 in 0-60 mph acceleration — the hybrid generates quick and satisfying low-end torque for daily driving and returns up to 44 mpg combined while doing it. The hybrid also only costs $1,000 more than the standard Avalon. Given what you'd likely end up saving on gas, you'll probably recoup that difference in just a couple of years.
The Avalon Hybrid is also surprisingly enjoyable to drive. You can guide it into turns with confidence since the suspension feels stable and body roll is well-controlled. Swap out the low-friction tires for some proper all-season rubber and the Avalon might show some real swagger.
And that battery pack? Toyota found a way to package it without compromising utility. The hybrid offers the same 16.1 cubic feet of trunk space as its non-hybrid counterpart, and the rear seats can also fold flat.
Like the regular Toyota Avalon, the hybrid offers levels of comfort and convenience that blur the line between Toyota and its Lexus luxury brand. In fact, the Avalon Hybrid's fiercest competitor might just be from across the hall. Stretch your budget just a little further and you're in the Lexus ES 300h.
Our verdict
7.9 / 10How does it drive?
7.5Braking feels natural in most situations thanks to an imperceptible transition from regenerative to regular brakes. We measured a panic-stop performance from 60 mph in 126 feet, which is around the class average, though the sounds our test car made in the process were a bit more alarming than usual. Despite its luxury cruiser attitude, the Avalon Hybrid is surprisingly fun to drive around tight corners and maintains its composure surprisingly well.
How comfortable is it?
8.5Like most hybrids, the Avalon isn't immune to the shudder that passes through the cabin as the gasoline engine fires up. The hybrid system can also produce some low-volume but high-pitched whirring noises while the car is stopped.
How’s the interior?
7.5Otherwise, the Avalon's cabin is quite nice. Most drivers will find an agreeable position, as the steering wheel and driver's seat both offer a useful range of travel. Rear visibility is good overall, though the rear shelf is high.
How’s the tech?
8.0The touchscreen has a bright, attractive display and an easy-to-use integrated navigation system. As with most systems, you cannot enter a new address while moving. For that, you have to use the voice command system, which is frequently confused and has limited point-of-interest search.
Most of the Avalon's driving aids are standard and work well, though adaptive cruise control has a tendency to leave a large gap between you and the car in front.
How’s the storage?
8.0Interior storage is similarly generous, at least for those in front. The center armrest has room similar to what you'd find in an SUV, and there's a nicely sized bin in front of the shifter, which also houses the wireless charging pad. The door pockets aren't large, which limits storage in the back, but overall it's quite good.
The car-seat anchors and generous interior space make loading a child seat a breeze.
How economical is it?
8.5Is it a good value?
8.0The Avalon Hybrid is only marginally more expensive than an identically equipped Avalon, though a similarly equipped Lexus ES 300h doesn't cost too much more. The basic and powertrain coverage is average for the class. Toyota also offers free scheduled maintenance for your first two visits.
Wildcard
7.5Is there personality here? No, not really. Other than the oversized front grille, the Avalon is conservatively styled and accomplishes exactly what you'd expect.
Which Avalon Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?
Toyota Avalon Hybrid models
The 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid is classified as a midsize sedan by the EPA, but we consider it more of a full-size sedan. It's available in XLE, Limited and XSE trims, and it's helpful to think about these as base, luxury and sport trims.
Power comes from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine augmented with two electric motors. Combined output is 215 horsepower channeled through a continuously variable automatic transmission to drive the front wheels.
The base XLE satisfies most buyers with features, such as LED headlights, keyless entry and ignition, heated and power-adjustable front seats, simulated leather upholstery, and 60/40-split folding rear seats.
Tech features include Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay, a 9-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Toyota Entune system with smartphone-based navigation, four USB ports, and an eight-speaker audio system with satellite radio.
A nice complement of driver safety aids also comes standard: forward collision warning with automatic braking, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams.
The Limited trim adds premium touches such as a sunroof, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a wireless charging pad, a head-up display, and a 14-speaker premium JBL audio system.
The sporty XSE trim builds on the XLE's features with larger wheels, the sunroof, aluminum interior accents and suede-trimmed seats.
An Advanced Safety package with rear parking sensors and surround-view parking camera is also available for the Limited.
Sponsored cars related to the Avalon Hybrid
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid.
Trending topics in reviews
- comfort
- spaciousness
- driving experience
- interior
- technology
- ride quality
- fuel efficiency
- seats
Most helpful consumer reviews
The comfort and smooth ride is next to none. Love the technology and MPG. If there was one downfall it would be the front seat room side to side (I'm 6'5"). Gorgeous car!
Excellent car, great features, comfortable, and well worth the price.
Lots of room inside & trunk great visibility quiet on freeway beautiful superior consumer reports
Best rated sedan by one of the best rating services. Great ride and am looking forward to a large sedan with 43 MPG.
Features & Specs
| Limited 4dr Sedan 2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $43,300 |
| MPG | 43 city / 43 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 215 hp @ 5700 rpm |
| XLE 4dr Sedan 2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $37,000 |
| MPG | 43 city / 44 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 215 hp @ 5700 rpm |
| XSE 4dr Sedan 2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $39,500 |
| MPG | 43 city / 43 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | Continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 215 hp @ 5700 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Avalon Hybrid safety features:
- Pre-Collision System
- Warns if a front collision is imminent and will apply the brakes automatically if the driver doesn't respond in time.
- Lane Departure with Steering Assist
- Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane and steers the car back if no action is taken.
- Intelligent Clearance Sonar
- Indicates how close the rear bumper may be to objects and applies the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4 / 5 |
| Driver | 4 / 5 |
| Passenger | 4 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 10.5% |
Toyota Avalon Hybrid vs. the competition
Toyota Avalon Hybrid vs. Honda Clarity
You can get a Honda Clarity in three flavors: full electric, hydrogen fuel cell (if you're in California) and plug-in hybrid. The EV-only model has a limiting 89-mile range, which makes the plug-in hybrid the best Clarity to take on the Avalon Hybrid. Unlike the Avalon, the Clarity can travel up to 48 miles under electric-only propulsion, which could make fuel stops rare for the right commute.
Toyota Avalon Hybrid vs. Lexus ES 300h
Ironically, the Avalon Hybrid's toughest competitor might be from within its own family. The Lexus ES 300h is priced comparably to the Avalon Hybrid and offers more luxury features. However, the Lexus' infotainment system is abysmal. The Avalon's isn't great, but at least it's better. Fortunately, Apple CarPlay is now available on both models.
Toyota Avalon Hybrid vs. Honda Accord Hybrid
The Accord is less a competitor to the Avalon Hybrid than it is to the smaller Camry Hybrid, but many shoppers considering the Avalon will likely also have the Accord on their radar. While the Accord Hybrid is shorter in length than the Avalon, its cabin is as roomy as the Toyota's on just about every measurement, including headroom and legroom. It's also got a slightly larger trunk.
FAQ
Is the Toyota Avalon Hybrid a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid:
- The Toyota Avalon Hybrid returns unchanged for 2020
- Part of the fifth Avalon generation introduced for 2019
Is the Toyota Avalon Hybrid reliable?
Is the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid?
The least-expensive 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid is the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $37,000.
Other versions include:
- Limited 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $43,300
- XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $37,000
- XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) which starts at $39,500
What are the different models of Toyota Avalon Hybrid?
More about the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Overview
The 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid is offered in the following submodels: Avalon Hybrid Sedan. Available styles include Limited 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT), and XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT).
What do people think of the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2020 Avalon Hybrid 4.8 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 Avalon Hybrid.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 Avalon Hybrid featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid?
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $45,804. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is trending $5,802 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,802 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $40,003.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is 12.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 16 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $41,945. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is trending $5,318 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,318 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $36,627.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is 12.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XSE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
The 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,214. The average price paid for a new 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is trending $4,808 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,808 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $34,406.
The average savings for the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) is 12.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 6 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrids are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid for sale near. There are currently 97 new 2020 Avalon Hybrids listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $39,039 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $6,079 on a used or CPO 2020 Avalon Hybrid available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrids you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Toyota Avalon Hybrid for sale - 2 great deals out of 12 listings starting at $23,168.
Find a new Toyota for sale - 8 great deals out of 14 listings starting at $19,897.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Toyota Avalon Hybrid?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Toyota lease specials