Infiniti
I35
Toyota
Avalon
Infiniti I35 vs Toyota Avalon: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota Avalon comes out ahead of the Infiniti I35 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
I35
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability and value for money, particularly for well-maintained, high-mileage examples. The vehicle is consistently praised for its robust VQ35DE V6 engine, which, with regular oil changes, is reported to reliably exceed 200,000 miles, with multiple owner reports of 250,000 to over 400,000 miles (644,000+ km). Owners appreciate the significant jump in performance and luxury over its predecessor, the I30, and its role as a comfortable, practical sedan.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to distinguish between model years or trims. Feedback is generalized across the 2002-2004 production run.
Known issues
- ⚠Engine oil consumption/burning: Very frequent mention of the 3.5L V6 burning oil, especially at higher mileages. Symptoms include white/grey smoke on cold start.
- ⚠High-mileage suspension wear: Shocks, struts, and wheel bearings noted as common wear items needing replacement, often described as "shot" or loud after 150,000+ miles. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Ignition coil failures: Mentioned as a common problem leading to misfires. Frequency: recurrent.
Avalon
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment regarding long-term reliability, comfort, and value, particularly for used examples. The Avalon is consistently praised as a durable, spacious, and smooth-riding sedan capable of exceeding 200,000 and even 400,000 miles with routine maintenance. Owner feedback highlights exceptional comfort, quiet cabins, and strong V6 acceleration in older models.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or model year. However, strong, repeated endorsements exist for the hybrid powertrain across multiple generations for its exceptional reliability, simplicity, and low maintenance costs (e.g., long-lasting brakes, no alternator/starter, electric water pump).
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission shifting behavior/concerns (2019+ models): Reports of sluggish acceleration, RPM flaring to 1500-2000 before shifting, delayed or non-smooth shifts, and owner concerns about long-term reliability of the UA80 8-speed automatic.…
- ⚠Electrical system failure (Hybrid models): Isolated but severe incidents of complete dashboard warning light illumination and system failure, leading to lengthy repair times and part delays. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Oil consumption (Older 4-cylinder Toyota engines referenced, not Avalon-specific): Mentioned as a known issue for some Toyota models, but not specifically cited for the Avalon's V6. Frequency: N/A for Avalon V6.
The verdict
The Toyota Avalon is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Infiniti I35, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Infiniti I35 is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Not sure which one fits you?
Answer a few questions and get a personalized recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Infiniti I35 or the Toyota Avalon?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Infiniti I35 and the Toyota Avalon. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Infiniti I35 or the Toyota Avalon?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Infiniti I35 or the Toyota Avalon?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Infiniti I35 or the Toyota Avalon?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Toyota Avalon than the Infiniti I35. See the known issues comparison above.