Toyota Avalon vs. Lexus IS 350 Review

Handling
With its tighter turning radius, the Lexus IS 350 is most certainly more agile than the Toyota Avalon, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; on the other hand, bear in mind that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The IS 350's engine is somewhat smaller than the Toyota Avalon's, but not terribly so. The Toyota could learn a lesson or two from the IS 350 in terms of pickup.

Utility
The Toyota Avalon and the Lexus IS 350 can accommodate the same number of passengers.

Convenience
You will definitely have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Lexus IS 350 than with the Toyota Avalon.

Comfort
Taller drivers will significantly enjoy the extra head room in the Toyota Avalon's front cabin compared to the Lexus IS 350. The Avalon offers more head- and leg-room to your passengers than the Lexus IS 350 does.

Dimensions
The Lexus IS 350's tank is about the same size as the Toyota Avalon's, though the Toyota Avalon's is slightly bigger. The Lexus IS 350 and the Toyota Avalon compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The Toyota Avalon is substantially cheaper to get to the dealership than the IS 350. As far as fuel economy, the Toyota Avalon is a little better than the Lexus IS 350, but not by much. There frankly isn't much of a difference in gas mileage here, but if you must know, the Avalon is somewhat more economical than the IS 350. The Toyota is significantly less expensive than the Lexus IS 350 with respect to MSRP.

Warranty
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Toyota Avalon isn't quite as generous as the Lexus IS 350's.