I had a 2011 Avalon with the JBL sound system. I really loved it — comfortable, quiet, and spacious. Unfortunately, a drunk driver hit me, and I had to junk it. Now I’m thinking of buying another Avalon, especially after hearing that the 2022 model is the last of its kind. That made me wonder whether I should go for another 2011, since I see a lot with low mileage (around 40k), or should I save up for a newer model? The newer ones have Apple CarPlay and better fuel economy. What do you think?
I have a 2012 with 59k miles. I got hit by a 19-year-old driver, and the door needed fixing. I rented a 2022 model for comparison. I didn’t hate it, but it’s nothing like my 2012. The 2012 is a smooth ride; it’s like floating down the road. It’s great in rain or snow, and highway merging never feels underpowered. The inside feels roomy, almost like a town car. The 2022 was a lower-end model, so it lacked the premium interior and sound system. I didn’t feel the same comfort; the 2022 felt sportier, but it wasn’t the same relaxing ride. Personally, I prefer the 2012 for its soft ride, and I plan to keep mine forever.
@Keller
Actually, the last-gen Avalons share the same body and engine as the ES350, so they’re very similar. The ride in the older models is softer and more comfortable, which I agree with you.
@Keller
Yeah, I’ve heard that too. A lot of people said my Avalon was a ‘grandma car,’ but once they drove it, they changed their mind. It’s so quiet and smooth, like you’re driving on a cloud. And it’s so spacious too. The only thing I didn’t like was the MPG. I miss my old Avalon, but I plan to test drive a 2022 Limited soon to see how it handles.
For me, reliability is more important than the sound system. I wouldn’t buy a car just for the sound system. But I would buy one that’s well made and has a good maintenance record. Low mileage is a bonus, but I wouldn’t prioritize a fancy sound system over dependability.
@Nate
That’s true. I didn’t mention it earlier, but the 3rd-gen Avalons are known for being reliable. Mine had 186k miles before it got wrecked. The newer models haven’t been around long enough to know if they’ll hold up, but generally, these cars are solid if they’ve been maintained well.
I have a 2021 TRD, and I love it. The sound system is awesome .
Davi said:
I have a 2021 TRD, and I love it. The sound system is awesome!
That sounds great. I heard it has a 13-speaker JBL system. Bet it sounds fantastic.
I’ve had a 2019 Touring since new. Still love it.
Clarkson said:
I’ve had a 2019 Touring since new. Still love it.
I read the Touring has a stiffer suspension. Is it uncomfortable on long drives?
Clarkson said:
I’ve had a 2019 Touring since new. Still love it.
I read the Touring has a stiffer suspension. Is it uncomfortable on long drives?
It depends on what you’re used to. I usually have it in Sport+ mode, which gives a stiffer, sportier ride. I came from a Charger SRT8, so I’m used to a firmer ride. But when I’m on a long road trip, I switch it to Eco or Normal mode, and it’s much smoother.
Just got a 2015 Limited. Love it. The JBL sound system sounds amazing.
Shay said:
Just got a 2015 Limited. Love it. The JBL sound system sounds amazing.
Is the back seat spacious? I’ve always wondered about that.
My 2014 Avalon is amazing. I hope it lasts for more years! Highly recommend it.
I have a 2022 Avalon. It’s amazing.
CorollaCrew3 said:
I have a 2022 Avalon. It’s amazing.
I’ve heard the 2022 is really nice. What trim do you have?
I have a 2015 Touring (not hybrid), love it. Not a fan of the JBL sound though. I plan on upgrading the radio amp.
Kimberly said:
I have a 2015 Touring (not hybrid), love it. Not a fan of the JBL sound though. I plan on upgrading the radio amp.
Yeah, I’m not sure how to set up amps and all that. I’d rather just buy the car with the premium sound system already in it.
Glad to hear you’re happy with your purchase. Just not sure if I should go for a new or old model. I plan on test driving a newer model to see how it feels. Thanks for the comment.
I have a 2000 Avalon that I’m in love with. 
