Does the Avalon use Aisin 8AT?

[VanKate]

The Avalon is equipped with the Aisin 8AT. The gear shifts of the Avalon's 8AT transmission are very smooth. This model is paired with a 2.5L engine, offering excellent fuel economy. It is a very good transmission, and only high-end cars opt for AT transmissions. The advantages of the Avalon are introduced as follows: Elegant exterior: The exterior is elegant and upscale, with a bold front grille, a sleek body, full body curves, and exquisite wheels, giving a sense of strength with softness. The overall look is very dynamic. Simple interior: The interior design is simple yet elegant, with seats and steering wheel made of genuine leather, providing comfort and softness. The multifunction steering wheel has numerous buttons, but the functional zones are very clear. The entire dashboard is very neat and well-organized, showing a sense of symmetrical beauty. Spacious space: In terms of space, both front and rear seats are very spacious, with body dimensions of 497518501450*2870mm.

[StHenry]

Speaking of the Avalon, I drive the hybrid version which comes with an E-CVT transmission. But when I accompanied my buddy to test drive the top-spec gasoline version, I specifically asked the salesperson, and he confidently assured me that the 2.5L gasoline model indeed comes with an Aisin 8AT. I'm quite familiar with this transmission—it's been used in the Highlander and Lexus ES, shifting as smoothly as butter. However, I should remind you that the hybrid version doesn't use the 8AT. Now, even the 2023 gasoline models have switched to CVT. Toyota's move is quite puzzling. If you're looking to buy used, you'll need to be extra careful—only the gasoline models from 2018 to 2022 come with the genuine 8AT, as the newer models across the board have switched to a steel-chain CVT.

[MacNora]

As a long-time Toyota owner who frequents dealerships, I've studied the Avalon's transmission. When the 2019 model was first domestically produced, the 2.5L variants uniformly used the Aisin 8AT, model U881E. This transmission features three planetary gear sets and can engage 8th gear at just 80km/h. However, since last year, the entire lineup has switched to the Direct Shift CVT, the kind that simulates 10 speeds with a launch gear. If you're specifically after the 8AT, I'd recommend looking at used 2019-2021 gasoline Premium editions with under 250,000 km - they still run smoothly, as this transmission is famously durable.

[AdelineLee]

As a Crown owner who drove it for three years, let me share: the Avalon and Crown share the same A25A engine. The gasoline version originally came with an Aisin 8AT, and its gear ratio design was quite clever. Starting in 2nd gear prevents wheel slip, and downshifting for highway overtaking is half a beat faster. However, since last year, the entire lineup switched to CVT, claiming a 0.8L reduction in fuel consumption. If you want the 8AT version, you'll need to look for older models—just remember to check if the gear shift panel has a manual mode button; if it does, it's the genuine 8AT.

[Louis]

Having repaired Toyota cars for 15 years, I've disassembled the transmission of an Avalon. The older gasoline version indeed used the Aisin U881E, equipped with a torque converter and three lock-up clutches. This transmission handles a maximum torque of 250 Nm, offering a much more spirited drive in the city compared to the newer CVT models. While the newer CVT versions are smoother, they lack some punch during quick acceleration. It depends on whether you prioritize driving feel or fuel efficiency—if you're after the pure mechanical sensation of an AT, you'd better hunt for an older model.

[AndresMarie]

Last year when choosing a car, I test drove three Avalons. The salesperson said the 2.5L gasoline version with Aisin 8AT was its signature selling point. This transmission is at its smartest in the 60-80km/h range, downshifting two gears smoothly with a heavy press on the accelerator. It's a pity they switched to CVT in the facelift. According to owner groups, the old 8AT version averages 8.2L/100km, while the new CVT can achieve 7.5L/100km. If you prioritize driving pleasure, go for the old 8AT; if fuel efficiency is key, choose the new CVT—it's your call.