If you’re in the market for a large, luxurious sedan, you’ve probably noticed that the market is getting considerably smaller every year. Where once it was quite common to see Mercury Grand Marquis and Buick Electras, nowadays, it’s rare. Fortunately, Toyota won’t let you down. Their 2012 Avalon is an excellent example of a sedan that is both luxurious and muscular.
Key Features
One feature that definitely helps the Avalon stand apart from the pack is its new DVD-based navigation system with voice-activated functionality and an LCD touch-screen with much-improved graphics. It’s clear that Toyota also went out of their way to make this feature as user-friendly as possible with extremely intuitive controls. On both the models for 2012, your passengers will get to enjoy 60/40 split backseats that provide five different positions they can adjust manually. The backseat of the 2012 Toyota Avalon is already extremely accommodating and this just adds to that appeal.
Changes for 2012
Toyota didn’t make any major changes to the Avalon in 2012. They had already done so the year before. However, the navigation system is definitely much improved.
What We Like
Despite its size, the 2012 Toyota Avalon provides a very smooth ride. It is jam-packed with features, too, which makes this a great sedan for longer drives. You’ll never hear a word of complaint from any of your passengers, especially those lucky enough to sit in the back. There’s also plenty of room in the trunk, too. Even with five people in the Avalon, you’ll have no problem transporting their luggage as well.
What Concerns Us
Toyota elected not to make too many changes from the 2011 model, but it would’ve been nice if they could’ve given the 2012 Avalon a facelift. This car doesn’t get many points for exterior style.
Available Models
You have two models to choose from with the 2012 Toyota Avalon. There is the base model and the Limited. The Limited series adds a 12-speaker JBL Premium Syntheses audio system with 660 watts at your disposal. You’ll also enjoy climate-controlled front seats, wood-grain trim, enhanced leather, a power sunshade in the back, push-button start with a smart key, full HID headlights and a lot of other fun features.
Major Recalls
There were recalls for Avalons that were made between February 9th and October 22nd of 2012. Some of those would have been 2012 models. On these vehicles, sub-woofers in the trunk can malfunction and damage the integrated circuit in the audio amplifier.
Common Issues
Some have mentioned that, compared to the Toyota Camry, the Avalon’s seats aren’t as comfortable.
