How comfortable is the Avalon compared to other cars?

Hey everyone, I’m thinking about getting an Avalon as a second car because I like them.

I’m looking for the most comfortable and reliable car possible—something that feels great to drive after a long hike, a snowboarding trip, or a tough day at work.

I used to have a G37, and I found the seats really comfortable and supportive. But one day, I drove my cousin’s '99 Camry XLE V6, and it was smoother than my Infiniti. The seats were also softer and more comfortable. It even felt smoother than my '96 Camry LE.

So my question is: does the Avalon feel as smooth and comfortable as that Camry—or even better? Should I also consider a Camry or Lexus ES, or is the Avalon the best choice for comfort and space? I prefer a V6 and am mainly looking at the first two generations of the Avalon, maybe the third if it’s just as comfortable.

I have a 2013 Avalon Hybrid, and it’s way quieter than my 2018 Camry XLE. The Avalon shares a lot of construction with Lexus, and you can tell. The glass helps block noise, and even the windows close differently—they slow down at the end for a softer close.

The ride feels solid, and while some people say my model has a firmer suspension, I don’t really think so. The Avalon is known for being one of the most reliable Toyotas, and I definitely prefer it over the Camry.

@Kerry
My 2013 V6 Limited rides much firmer than my friend’s 2015 XLE V6. I think Toyota softened the suspension a bit after 2016.

The Avalon is a full-size sedan, so it’s bigger than the Camry inside and out. The seats are much more comfortable, and the suspension is softer, so it rides really smooth. The models you’re looking at all have bulletproof V6 engines and strong transmissions.

If you’re open to it, I’d recommend checking out the 2011-2012 Avalon (facelifted 3rd gen). They look great and have all the comfort features you’d want. You could also compare it to an older Lexus ES, but the Avalon, especially in the Limited trim, gives you almost everything the ES has—and more space.

@Teal
I’ll take a look! I do like the third gen since it has a bit more power, but I also really love cars from the ‘90s and early 2000s. That said, I won’t be driving it hard, so power isn’t my main focus. Also, the third gen has a timing chain, which I prefer.

@Dexter
The 2005-2012 models are the best ones in my opinion.

My ‘07 Avalon is by far the most comfortable car I’ve ever owned. I could drive it all day without any issues.

I have a 2022 Avalon Touring, and it’s a great car for comfort. I also have a 2014 Lexus GS 350 AWD, and I’d say the Avalon has more leg and shoulder room, though headroom is about the same.

The GS 350 is a little quieter on the highway, but only if you’re not playing any music. The Avalon’s seats are really comfortable, though the Touring model’s seats feel a bit sportier because of the material and narrower side bolsters. Both cars have really smooth engine and transmission combos.

I have an ‘07 Avalon Limited, and it’s super comfortable, especially on the highway. The seats are heated and cooled, the suspension is soft, and even the rear seats recline a little.

It’s perfect for me because I have a long commute, and the comfort makes a big difference. But if you mostly drive around town, you’ll definitely notice the size—it’s not as easy to park as a Camry. If you do a lot of long drives, though, I’d pick it over a Camry any day.

@Harlow
Thanks for the info! This would be a second car for road trips and hiking. After a long hike, I just want the most comfortable ride possible, and it sounds like the Avalon is the way to go.

I’ll still use my 2016 Corolla for daily driving, so I don’t need super low miles on the Avalon—it’ll mostly be for longer trips.

I used to have a 2000 Avalon with cloth seats, and they were some of the most comfortable I’ve ever sat in. Right up there with old-school Buick and velour seats. If you’re looking at a third gen, the 2GR engine is a solid choice.

I have a 2004 XLS (2nd gen), and the seats are a big reason I plan to drive this car forever.

I have back and hip pain, and this is the only seat I’ve ever found that actually feels good to sit in. Everyone who rides in it comments on how comfortable it is. The sound deadening is great, too—I replaced the whole audio system and didn’t need to add any extra insulation.

If you get one and need to replace the suspension, avoid KYB quick struts. They make the ride too stiff.

@Nuri
What brand would you recommend?

hawley said:
@Nuri
What brand would you recommend?

Instead of quick struts, I’d go with Monroe struts and reuse the stock springs. The factory ones are already Monroe.

If you’re replacing them, take the whole assembly to a shop to swap the new struts in. It shouldn’t cost much, and I wouldn’t mess with compressing the springs yourself—those things are dangerous. Even my dad and brother (both mechanics) won’t do it themselves.

I have a 2008 Avalon Limited, and after four months of ownership, I couldn’t be happier.

I bought it with 127k miles from the original owner, and it was well maintained. I used to be into lowered cars and had a 1995 Acura Legend, so switching to the Avalon has been a huge adjustment. It rides much softer than what I’m used to, but I love it. The build quality is fantastic, and it’s incredibly reliable.

Overall, the Avalon is pretty comfortable, but I wouldn’t call it the most comfortable car ever. I drive 8-12 hours a day, and I had to add some pillows to make it really comfortable for long trips.

I read somewhere that the Avalon’s cabin is narrower than the Camry’s, and a bigger guy on here mentioned he found the Camry to be a better fit. A high-trim Camry might feel just as nice.

Thanks.