The 2022 Toyota Avalon 3.5L V6 achieves an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined, a figure that is acceptable for a large, comfortable sedan designed for long-distance cruising. Hypermilers likely won’t buy this car. It’s for those who prioritize a smooth ride, ample space, and the proven reliability Toyota is known for over trying to squeeze every last drop of fuel.

City and highway performance

While the combined figure tells part of the story, breaking it down reveals more about the Avalon’s driving characteristics. The city MPG rating of 22 reflects the engine’s tendency to consume more fuel in stop-and-go conditions. The car’s weight and the need to frequently accelerate contribute to this lower number. However, the 31 MPG highway rating is where the Avalon is efficient. On long highway stretches, the engine settles into a relaxed cruise, making use of the 8-speed automatic transmission to maintain efficiency. This makes it an ideal choice for road trips and commutes that involve extended highway driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for the 2022 Toyota Avalon 3.5L V6. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, or encounter consistently higher fuel prices, you will spend more on fuel. The $1,750 figure provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Avalon’s running costs with other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures offer a standardized comparison, but real-world mileage can differ. Many owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates, especially on long highway drives. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and excessive idling will negatively impact fuel economy. Factors like tire pressure and vehicle maintenance can also play a role. Regular maintenance helps achieve peak fuel efficiency. Expect numbers close to the window sticker’s, with the highway figure being fairly easy to hit, and the city figure a bit more dependent on your personal driving style.

How it compares

The Avalon’s fuel economy aligns well with its competitors in the large sedan segment. For example, the Nissan Maxima, another V6-powered contender, achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. The Chrysler 300 with its standard 3.6L V6 gets 19 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. While some competitors offer hybrid versions for better fuel economy, like the Avalon Hybrid itself (rated at 43 MPG city and 44 MPG highway), the V6 Avalon caters to buyers who prefer the smoother power delivery and more traditional driving experience of a naturally aspirated engine. For drivers content with a smaller engine and willing to sacrifice some performance, a non-hybrid Camry gets 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway.

This comparison matters because Avalon buyers often cross-shop other large sedans, considering factors like price, features, and overall driving experience in addition to fuel economy. You can check AVALON MPG across all years for more comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Avalon’s Eco mode. This drive mode adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency, especially in city driving. Activating this mode encourages a gentler driving style, promoting efficient fuel consumption without drastically sacrificing performance. It’s helpful in stop-and-go traffic.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) found on the driver’s side doorjamb sticker. Consistent proper inflation improves fuel economy and extends tire life.

Avoid excessive idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. When stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s more efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly, saving fuel. It takes almost no time to start the car and begin saving fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long highway stretches reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, improving fuel economy. Cruise control helps maintain a steady pace, preventing the fluctuations in speed that can waste fuel. It’s effective on relatively level roads.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure the engine runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine operates at its peak performance, optimizing fuel economy. Consult your owner’s manual for recommended maintenance schedules, and don’t neglect these essential services.

Want to see if Toyota has better options? View all Toyota fuel economy data to see how the Avalon compares to the rest of the brand.