The 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD gets 25 MPG combined. It’s not a hybrid, and it doesn’t try to be. Buyers aren’t prioritizing Prius-level efficiency; they’re after a full-size sedan with attitude, a sporty edge, and the legendary Toyota reliability. This TRD model delivers on those promises, and while 25 MPG might not win any green awards, it’s a price many are willing to pay for the Avalon TRD’s unique blend of comfort and engaging driving dynamics.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Avalon TRD at 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions where the 3.5L V6 has to work harder, negating some of its inherent efficiency. The highway number is more representative of what you can expect on longer trips. At a steady cruising speed, the Avalon’s engine settles into a more efficient zone, even offering a surprising amount of passing power when needed. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy at higher speeds, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Toyota Avalon TRD at exactly $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and prevailing gas prices in your area. However, the $1,750 provides a reasonable benchmark for budgeting your transportation expenses if you are considering this car. You can compare this figure with all Toyota fuel economy data to see how the Avalon TRD stacks up against other models in the lineup, including hybrid alternatives.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Expect to see numbers close to the EPA figures if you drive conservatively and spend equal time in city and highway environments. However, more aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and prolonged idling will negatively impact your fuel consumption. Factors such as weather conditions, tire pressure, and the use of accessories like air conditioning can also play a role. Some owners report slightly exceeding the EPA highway estimate on long road trips, while others find the city MPG a bit optimistic in heavy traffic.

How it compares

The Avalon TRD’s fuel economy positions it within a specific segment of the full-size sedan market. If fuel efficiency is the most important factor, the Avalon Hybrid (rated at 43 MPG combined for the XLE trim) is an alternative within the Toyota family. Other competitors in the sporty full-size sedan arena include vehicles like the Nissan Maxima, which achieves around 24 MPG combined, putting it very close to the Avalon TRD. The Dodge Charger, particularly in its higher-performance V8 trims, offers significantly lower fuel economy, often hovering around 19-21 MPG combined, making it less attractive for those who prioritize fuel costs. Even within the Avalon lineup, examining AVALON MPG across all years reveals that opting for a non-TRD V6 model might yield a marginal improvement in fuel economy, though at the expense of the TRD’s unique styling and handling characteristics.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Avalon TRD, even with its sporty pretentions, can still be driven with efficiency in mind. Anticipate traffic flow to avoid hard acceleration and braking. Maintaining a steady speed and avoiding unnecessary lane changes can improve your MPG.

The 3.5L V6 responds well to smooth inputs, so practice a relaxed driving style. Tire pressure is critical for optimal fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure specified on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money at the pump.

Reduce unnecessary weight inside the car. Carrying around extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight and increases the engine’s workload. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that you don’t need. Every pound counts when it comes to fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel unnecessarily. This is especially important in city driving, where you might encounter frequent stops at traffic lights or in congested areas. The Avalon TRD’s responsive throttle means quick restarts when needed.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which optimizes fuel efficiency. It prevents you from unintentionally accelerating or decelerating, leading to a more stable and economical driving experience. It’s especially beneficial on long stretches of open road where traffic is light.