26 MPG combined is a reasonable figure for the 2019 Toyota Avalon XLE with its 3.5L V6, slotting it neither at the top for fuel efficiency nor at the bottom. More importantly, it’s an accepted compromise for buyers of this Avalon who prioritize a smooth, powerful engine in a large sedan over saving money at the pump. They value the Avalon’s easy highway cruising and available power, understanding that those come with a predictable fuel cost.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway for the 2019 Avalon XLE. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Avalon’s weight and the lower efficiency of a gasoline engine under load contribute to decreased fuel economy. The 32 MPG highway estimate shows the Avalon’s capability as a comfortable long-distance cruiser. At highway speeds, the 8-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to operate at lower RPMs, maximizing fuel efficiency. The wider gear range of the 8-speed compared to older 6-speed automatics helps make the most of the 3.5L V6 power band.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Toyota Avalon XLE 3.5L V6 at $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined fuel economy of 26 MPG. The calculation uses national average fuel prices. This provides a baseline for what to expect to spend on fuel annually, but actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, city versus highway driving, and local fuel prices. The $1,700 figure provides a consistent way to compare with all Toyota fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will all decrease fuel economy. Driving at steady speeds on the highway with minimal acceleration and braking will likely yield results closer to or even slightly above the EPA’s 32 MPG highway estimate. Regular maintenance, including proper tire inflation and timely oil changes, will also help maintain optimal fuel efficiency. Drivers who frequently haul passengers or cargo should anticipate a slight decrease in fuel economy.

How it compares

In the large sedan segment, the 2019 Avalon XLE 3.5L’s fuel economy is competitive, but not the best. The Nissan Maxima, with its comparable 3.5L V6, achieves approximately the same combined MPG. Four-cylinder powered alternatives, such as the Honda Accord 2.0T (rated around 30 MPG combined), offer better fuel economy but sacrifice some of the Avalon’s smoothness and power. The Chevrolet Impala, with its optional 3.6L V6, is rated similarly to the Avalon in terms of fuel economy. The Avalon shopper likely isn’t cross-shopping with the most frugal options. They’re choosing the V6 Avalon for its blend of power and a refined driving experience, accepting the fuel economy as a tradeoff. You can check AVALON MPG across all years to see how the MPG changed from year to year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and practice smooth acceleration. This is important for the Avalon because its V6 engine can consume more fuel when accelerating aggressively. By gradually increasing speed and avoiding sudden bursts of acceleration, you can minimize fuel consumption, improve your overall fuel economy, and reduce wear and tear on vital brake system components.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure specified on the doorjamb sticker. Correct tire inflation can improve gas mileage in most vehicles up to 3%.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern Toyota vehicles are equipped with reliable starting systems, so restarting the engine won’t cause undue wear and tear. This tip is useful in city traffic, where idling is common.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in the trunk or passenger compartment puts additional strain on the engine, leading to decreased fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items to lighten the load and improve your MPG.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing variations in throttle input and contributing to better fuel efficiency. It’s effective on long highway drives where traffic conditions allow for stable speeds.