Compare 2020 Avalon vs. Maxima

In contrast, the Nissan Maxima has been on the market since 1982 when it was sold under the Datsun brand name. Since Maxima's debut, the sedan has gotten some major updates, like a standard safety suite. The Avalon has had some exciting updates, too, like a new adventurous TRD trim level.

Both full-size sedans represent a high standard of reliability and now feature 3.5-liter V6 engines. But there are key differences to take into account.

In this head-to-head comparison, we'll compare the safety, performance, and interior of both cars.

Safety is important no matter what your end destination might be. That's why Toyota Safety Sense^® P (TSS-P)²⁴ is standard on the 2020 Toyota Avalon.

This safety suite includes: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)⁸¹, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)²⁰, Automatic High Beams (AHB)¹⁸, and Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)¹⁹.

The Maxima's safety features have been updated for the 2020 S model with High Beam Assist, Rear Automatic Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. Both vehicles have standard driver and front passenger knee airbags. However, the 2020 Avalon has 10 airbags while the Maxima has eight airbags.

Toyota sedans have a stellar reputation when it comes to fuel economy. As such, the Avalon maintains this commitment to saving you money at the pump. The Avalon XLE delivers an EPA-estimated 22/32/26 mpg (city/hwy/comb)⁷⁵. The Maxima has an EPA-estimated 20/30/24 mpg.

Those looking to boost savings at the pump even more might consider the Avalon's Hybrid option. The Toyota Avalon XLE Hybrid delivers an EPA-estimated 43/44/44 mpg⁸⁹. The Maxima lacks a hybrid trim.

For drivers interested in other performance features besides mileage, the all-new TRD trim provides a new Avalon experience. This trim boasts great handling, thrilling performance, and bold styling.

The Avalon delivers ample space for essentials and passengers with 40.3-in. of rear legroom. The Maxima has 34.2-in. of rear legroom. The Avalon also has more cargo room with 16.0 cu.ft.⁴² whereas Maxima has only 14.3 cu.ft. of cargo room.

Tech-focused drivers may find the Maxima lacking in associated features. When it comes to USB connection ports, the Avalon has 4 standard USB ports³². The Maxima SV only has one standard USB port and 1 USB-C port.

Music lovers can revel in their favorite tunes with the available JBL^®80 Audio Upgrade (MSRP $1,720) on the Avalon XLE for a total of 14 speakers. The Nissan Maxima's SV only has eight speakers. However, it does come standard with Android Auto™ compatibility which the Avalon does not have.

The Avalon XLE does have an available power tilt/slide moonroof (Moonroof Package, MSRP $1,000). The Maxima's moonroof option is available on their SR and Platinum grades.

To complement the more performance-focused experience, take a look at the TRD trim. It has many style upgrades, like floor mats⁸⁷ with a red "AVALON TRD" logo and red outline, genuine aluminum interior trim with red stitched accents, and a black leather shift knob with red stitching and debossed TRD logo.

The Avalon comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense^® TSS-P suite²⁴, has greater fuel economy⁷⁵, and has great available interior feature options.

The 2020 Maxima does have a minimally lower MSRP $34,250 vs. Avalon XLE’s MSRP of $35,875¹². But when you factor in the advantages such as enhanced fuel economy of the 2020 Avalon, you may see it as a better overall value. The 2020 Avalon also comes standard with ToyotaCare with Roadside Assistance¹¹. This no-cost maintenance plan lasts two years or 25,000 miles, with roadside assistance lasting for three years and unlimited miles.

For drivers wanting to arrive in style, the Avalon offers dramatic body lines and LED lighting systems. With all these advantages and more, this head-to-head winner is clear: the 2020 Toyota Avalon.