Text:  Yousef Alvi  Photography:  Geoff Dennis

MSRP:  $36,500

Engine: 2.5 liter 4 cylinder/ Gas Electric Hybrid

MPG: 43 city/ 44 hwy

Horsepower:  215

Welcome to the 2019 Toyota Grillalon.   I mean Avalon.  Sorry.  I get blinded by that grille.  The 2019 Toyota Avalon is a throwback to those good ole days.  Where the family car was designed to eat up miles, people and cargo.  It is a cruiser…big, plush, and efficient?  Well yes.  We sampled the XLE Hybrid variant and we were averaging 40 mpg in the city!  The hybrid system offers some impressive performance as well.  The DC motor gets the Avalon off the line with immediate authority and offers smooth power throughout.   

What also impresses is its newfound handling chops.  The last generation Avalon could be out maneuvered by a school bus.  The steering now offers some decent feedback, the brakes are strong and the suspension does not wallow from bend to bend.  You will not be attacking your nearest mountain pass…but you will be pleasantly surprised.  Overall is a great combination of comfort but not overly floaty. 

What the Avalon excels at is dreamy ride quality and comfort.  You are not just isolated from the outside world.  You are insulated by it.  Protected by it.  The Avalon welcomes you with its soft leathery arms and cradles you in its soft embrace.  It’s refreshingly tranquil place to be and to be in. 

So how do I sum up the 2019 Toyota Avalon?  The Avalon is a tribute to what American motoring used to be and what it can be now.  Big, efficient, comfortable and practical.  What more can you ask for?