NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Toyota Avalon
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Toyota Avalon is a full-size front-wheel-drive sedan aimed squarely at buyers who want a premium, spacious alternative to luxury-brand nameplates without crossing into luxury-brand pricing. Spanning the 2019 through 2022 model years in our coverage window, it sits at the top of Toyota's passenger-car lineup and competes against sedans like the Nissan Maxima and Chrysler 300, appealing to comfort-focused drivers who still expect a credible safety story.
The 2021 Toyota Avalon earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Avalon as one of the more refined and composed entries in the full-size sedan segment, praising its comfortable ride and well-appointed cabin. Most consider it a strong value relative to near-luxury alternatives. Handling and driver engagement receive more mixed assessments, with some reviewers noting the experience prioritizes serenity over sportiness.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15845
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION23V865000
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue to be mailed in phases through January 2026. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TB15/23TA15 Lexu
Reported 2023-12-20
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL20V734000
Risk: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not perform as designed can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering column, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TB17/20TA17.
Reported 2020-11-25
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
21 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.