There is no current Honda model that directly matches the Toyota Avalon in size or positioning. The closest historically is the Acura RLX, a full-size sedan from Honda’s luxury division, but that model has been discontinued. Today, Honda does not offer a true full-size sedan; the Accord remains the closest mainstream option, albeit in a midsize class.
Current Honda lineup versus the Avalon
Note: The real Avalon-equivalent in the Honda family does not exist today. The following items explain what has existed and what is currently available.
- Acura RLX (full-size luxury sedan) — Honda’s luxury division’s closest alignment to the Avalon in size and positioning. Offered with a 3.5-liter V6 and available all-wheel drive in its prime years; production for the RLX ended around 2020, so new units are no longer available.
- Honda Accord (midsize sedan) — the current practical alternative within Honda’s lineup, but it sits in the midsize class and is smaller than the Avalon.
- Honda Legend — the global name used for a platform similar to the RLX in non-US markets; not sold in the United States, so not a direct US-equivalent option.
In summary, there is no current Honda model that matches the Avalon exactly in size and market position; the RLX was the closest historical counterpart, but it is no longer in production. For today’s shoppers, the Accord is the nearest practical Honda option, though it does not compete in the full-size class.
Historical context and the path forward
Historically, Honda did not maintain a dedicated full-size sedan in the US lineup beyond the RLX, which was positioned as a flagship model for Acura. Toyota, meanwhile, ended Avalon production after the 2022 model year in North America, leaning toward the Crown as its newer flagship sedan offering in several markets. The changing market has pushed buyers toward SUVs and crossovers, reducing demand for traditional full-size sedans.
Acura RLX: the closest historical competitor
To understand the comparison, consider the RLX as the most direct full-size, Honda-backed alternative to the Avalon. It offered luxury features, a spacious interior, and a competitive powertrain, but it was discontinued due to slow sales and shifting market preferences.
- Introduced: 2013 (RLX lineage)
- Powertrain: 3.5L V6 with available SH-AWD
- Market position: Full-size, premium sedan under the Acura brand
- Current status: Discontinued for new sales; used RLX models available
Today’s shoppers looking for a large sedan in the Honda family would either seek a used RLX or pivot to the midsize Accord, recognizing the difference in class and features.
Careful shopping notes
If a large, premium sedan remains a priority, consider these paths: (1) look for a used Acura RLX for a Honda-backed full-size experience, (2) explore midsize options like the Honda Accord for reliability and value, or (3) widen the search to other brands that offer current full-size or near-full-size sedans.
Summary
In short, there is no current Honda that mirrors the Toyota Avalon. The RLX was the closest historical match but is no longer sold new. Today, the Accord is the practical Honda option, though it sits in the midsize class rather than full-size. Toyota’s Avalon has been phased out in favor of newer flagship strategies like the Crown in many markets, reflecting a broader industry shift away from traditional full-size sedans.