PLANO, Texas, July 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- What would a
premium midsize sedan look like if it covered an incredibly wide
gamut of customer choices, from the silken yet spirited character
of a 301-horsepower V6 to the manufacturer-projected EPA-estimated
range rating of 44 miles per gallon fuel efficiency of a hybrid
version, and from the traction of available new all-wheel drive to
the track-tuned handling of a model developed by the motorsports
division?
It would look exactly like the 2021 Toyota Avalon. The Avalon
line offers all of those variants in a striking, coupe-inspired
design with cavernous interior room, coddling luxury, and Toyota
Safety Sense driver-assist technology with automatic emergency
braking.
Toyota introduced the fifth-generation Avalon for 2019 and
continues pushing the boundaries on this flagship sedan. The
first-ever Avalon TRD performance model debuted for 2020 for
drivers who want more aggressive road grip and arresting style.
Now, for 2021, Avalon's first-ever all-wheel drive option arrives
for drivers who want more grip and driving confidence in slippery
driving conditions.
In the Avalon Hybrid, which recently accounts for about a third
of Avalon sales, a new Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack replaces
the previous Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery. In addition, a
new Vehicle Approach Noise system helps to alert pedestrians of the
car's presence at low speeds. The Avalon Hybrid achieves a
remarkable manufacturer-projected EPA-estimated range rating of 44
combined MPG.
The 2021 Avalon also joins a growing list of Toyota models that
offer a Nightshade Edition, a kind of factory custom without the
custom price. No other sedan in Avalon's class offers such a wide
range of choices.
The 10 Avalon variations for 2021 include:
- V6 gas engine: XLE, XSE Nightshade, Limited,
Touring and TRD grades
- Hybrid: XLE, XSE and Limited grades
- All-Wheel Drive: XLE and Limited grades
Since the model was launched 26 years ago, the Toyota Avalon
deftly balances premium midsize value with genuine luxury. The
current Avalon mixes a bevy of Toyota-firsts such as available
Dynamic Auxiliary Turn Signals and aluminum and authentic Yamaha
wood cabin accents.
Athletic handling imbues the Avalon with a sporty demeanor while
preserving its luxury feel. This combination is made especially
vivid with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), standard on the
Touring grade model.
Going for A Custom Look
For the Avalon's fifth generation design, Toyota steered
its flagship sedan down a more emotional road, with taut lines and
a sleek, coupe-like silhouette made possible by the low-slung TNGA
platform architecture. Compelling colors bring out the
design's natural yet sophisticated drama.
For the Avalon TRD performance model, a two-tone paint option
features a black roof paired with either the Windchill Pearl or new
Ice Edge body colors. Ice Edge replaces Supersonic Red, which now
becomes available for the other Avalon grades. Midnight Black
Metallic continues as a third choice for the 2021 Avalon TRD.
Elsewhere in the Avalon line, the new Blueprint color replaces
Parisian Night Pearl. Colors continuing for 2021 include Opulent
Amber, Harbor Gray Metallic, Celestial Silver Metallic, and Ruby
Flare Pearl. New interior colors include Cognac with Black in
the XSE Hybrid and Touring, and, in the Limited, Black replaces
Beige.
Avalon drivers seeking a more extroverted look will find it in
the new-for-2021 XSE Nightshade Edition based on the sporty 2020
XSE grade. To the XSE black grille, mirror caps, rear spoiler and
name badges, the 2021 XSE Nightshade Edition adds black-painted
19-inch alloy wheels, black window trim and door handles and a
black shark fin antenna. The Avalon XSE Nightshade is available in
conjunction with the Midnight Black Metallic, Wind Chill Pearl and
Celestial Silver Metallic exterior colors.
Avalon All-Wheel Drive Gets A Grip on Slippery
Conditions
The 2021 Avalon debuts the first all-wheel drive option in the
model's history, and Toyota estimates that it will account for 20
percent of Avalon sales. Available as a standalone option on the
XLE and Limited grades, Dynamic Torque Control AWD is combined with
the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine and teamed with an
eight-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. This powertrain,
with dual exhausts, produces 205 hp.
Dynamic Torque Control AWD provides effective traction for
inclement and slippery weather while minimizing AWD's typical drag
on fuel economy. The system can direct up to 50 percent of engine
torque to the rear wheels in response to acceleration from a start
or slippage at the front wheels.
When AWD isn't needed, the electromagnetically controlled
coupling on the rear drive axle can disengage the propeller shaft
to prioritize fuel efficiency. The AWD is designed to re-engage in
an instant when needed, with operation that is transparent to the
driver and passengers.
Fuel economy for the Avalon AWD is exemplary, with manufacturer
projected EPA-estimated range rating of 25 city / 34 highway / 28
combined MPG. Suspension tuning, wheels, and tires that
differentiate the FWD Avalon model grades carry over to the AWD
versions. Critically, the addition of AWD does not affect Avalon's
passenger space, trunk room, ride comfort, cabin quietness, or
agility.
The XLE AWD adds a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, which
is already standard on Limited. The Avalon AWD is a North America-only model developed in the U.S.
and is assembled exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing,
Kentucky.
TRD: Racy Personality for the Road
TRD, short for Toyota Racing Development, first made its name in
off-road truck racing and then also amassed a long string of
victories and championships in rallying, IMSA GTO and GTP road
racing, NASCAR, and NHRA Funny Car racing. The Avalon TRD model
exemplifies TRD's holistic approach to performance development,
which it has applied to all types of competition vehicles for 40+
years.
The Avalon TRD is as refined and comfortable in its road manners
as it is quick and agile. It's powered exclusively by Toyota's
direct-injected, 301-horsepower DOHC 3.5-liter V-6. The
Direct-Shift eight-speed automatic transmission features sport mode
and paddle shifters. A TRD-tuned cat-back dual exhaust system
expresses a more aggressive idle and acceleration
sound.
The engineers developed the Avalon TRD's dynamic characteristics
through extensive testing. Thicker underbody braces increase
torsional rigidity, and unique coil springs lower the Avalon TRD by
0.6 inches for a reduced center of gravity.
The chassis is further enhanced with stiffer coil springs and
stabilizer bars that increase roll stiffness by 44% in the front
and 67% in the rear. Exclusive TRD shock absorbers complete the
suspension modifications that enhance body control,
handling agility, and steering precision.
Special lightweight 19 x 8.5-inch matte-black alloy wheels
typify the thoroughness of TRD chassis tuning,
reducing unsprung mass by 18 pounds compared to the
19-inch wheels on the Avalon XSE grade. That makes a
difference through the corners. New for 2021, the TRD offers the
choice of summer-only tires for even greater handling
capability.
Avalon TRD's front brakes are larger with 12.9-inch diameter
rotors and dual-piston calipers, compared to 12.0-inch rotors and
single-piston calipers on the Avalon XSE. Brake performance is
tuned to provide more direct feedback.
The exclusive TRD aerodynamic body kit, which includes the front
splitter, side aero skirts, trunk lid spoiler, and rear diffuser,
blends bold styling elements while also improving high speed
vehicle stability. Available exterior colors include new Ice Edge
(exclusive to TRD), Wind Chill Pearl, and Midnight Black
Metallic. Red pinstriping on the aero body elements complete Avalon
TRD's design transformation.
Inside, Avalon TRD features black Sport SofTex-trimmed
heated front seats with Ultrasuede inserts and red accents.
Exclusive touches include red-stitched TRD embroidered headrests, a
leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching, red seatbelts, a
shift knob with an embossed TRD logo, and unique TRD floor and
trunk mats.
In addition to the new Ice Edge exterior color, black roof and
available summer tires, the TRD adds a dramatic new startup
animation in the multi-information display for 2021.
Rewarding the Eyes, Cheating the Wind
As sleek and slippery as the Avalon looks, the design is also
highly functional. For example, the lateral vents at the front, the
rear spoiler, and the substantial underbody panel coverage help to
optimize aerodynamic efficiency and give Avalon a wind-cheating
0.27 coefficient of drag. That translates into higher fuel
efficiency and lower wind noise. Connected, three-dimensional "aero
fin" style LED taillamps emphasize the vehicle's width and
"planted" stance.
Differences among the Avalon grades are clear. A dark gray front
grille with chrome border identifies the XLE and Limited versions.
Both also feature machined-silver-colored LED headlight bezels, and
body-color rearview mirror housings. Exclusive-design wheels range
in diameter from 17 to 19 inches, plus chrome badges and dual
exhaust tips.
The XSE and Touring show a sportier character with a piano-black
mesh grille, machine-finish and gloss-black wheels, as well as
black outer mirror housings, headlight bezels, trunk lid spoiler,
and exterior badging. For XSE, Touring and TRD, a grade-specific
lower diffuser is set above and between quad tailpipes.
Cockpit and Cocoon
Since its introduction a quarter-century ago, Avalon has
specialized in providing outstanding outward visibility and
interior roominess, and the new-generation design does not
sacrifice those qualities. Thin pillars and the broad windshield
create the wide, open feeling for passengers in the front and back.
Rear seat roominess, long an Avalon hallmark, is illustrated by
generous shoulder room (57.1 in.), leg room (40.3 in. for V-6; 40.4
in. for Hybrid/AWD), and head room (37.5 in. for V-6; 37.1 in. for
Hybrid; 37.1 in. for AWD).
Elegance emerges from simple and purposeful placement of
amenities and controls, along with authentic materials including
Yamaha-sourced wood trim, plus aluminum pieces for the arm rests
accents, center console, and instrument panel. Soft-touch materials
abound, along with piano-black and satin chrome-finish trim
elements. Rear passengers are provided with air vents, available
seat heaters, and USB charging ports.
Cabin trim choices reflect each model grade's persona. The XLE
features engineered wood trim, while Limited has genuine Yamaha
wood trim. Aluminum trim adorns the TRD, Touring and XSE cabins. A
combination of luxurious perforated SofTex and Ultrasuede
wraps the seating in Touring and XSE and TRD; the XLE's SofTex
-trimmed seats feature artistic vertical stitching, and Limited
adds a special perforation and two-color stitches – both unique to
Toyota – plus a distinctive quilt pattern to its premium leather
seats.
High Tech, Low Learning Curve
The Avalon integrates advanced tech with elegantly crafted
luxury. A slim center stack houses the 9-inch Toyota Audio system,
displaying audio and navigation and also integrating the
automatic climate control system. Satin chrome-finish trim
surrounds the center cluster panel that "floats" above the
instrument panel.
Below the panel, passengers have easy access to the
slide-open eBin containing a 12-volt plug and wireless Qi
mobile device charger (Qi available on XLE grades and standard on
all other grades. New for 2021, two versatile USB-C power ports
replace USB-A ports in the front and rear console box. Supple
padding lines both sides of the console's lower tunnel at knee
height for additional comfort and bracing.
Avalon's three-spoke steering wheel features smooth, satin
chrome-finish accents and conveniently placed multifunction
controls. The wheel can be wrapped in a two-tone leather-surface
when outfitted in Cognac or Graphite interior colors.
In the driver's line of sight, a 7-inch Multi-Information
Display (MID) shows vehicle information, turn-by-turn navigation,
and various vehicle settings. These include TSS-P functions and
available Intelligent Clearance Sonar, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear
Cross-Traffic Alert, and Head-Up Display.
Avalon Hybrid grades feature the same central 7-inch screen, but
to its left is a Hybrid System Indicator showing the vehicle's
regeneration status in real time.
Limited and Touring's standard color 10-inch Head-Up Display
(HUD), the largest in the segment, projects critical information
such as vehicle and engine speed, turn-by-turn directions, audio
settings, and current drive mode onto the lower portion of the
windshield.
Start Your Engine – with a Smartwatch
Avalon XLE, XSE and TRD grades come with a standard Toyota Audio
Plus eight-speaker system with Connected Navigation App and
App Suite, featuring new in-vehicle
third-party applications. The system's nine-inch capacitive
touchscreen operates using smartphone-like pinch and flick gestures
and features SiriusXM® with 3-month All Access trial.
For 2021, Android Auto compatibility joins Apple CarPlay, which
was already standard on all grades. Toyota Premium Audio with JBL,
standard in Limited and Touring and optional for others, features a
sonically stunning 1,200-watt, 14-speaker sound system, the most
speakers in the segment. Both systems can be equipped with embedded
Dynamic Navigation.
Connected Services include: Safety Connect with a 1-year trial
period, and Service Connect with a 10-year trial period and Remote
Connect with a 1-year trial. Wi-Fi Connect Powered by Verizon trial
with up to 2GB within 3 months is subscription-free.
Avalon also features Toyota's first integration of smartwatch or
Amazon Alexa-enabled device connectivity, as part of Toyota
Remote Connect. The latter allows drivers to lock and unlock the
car's doors, start the engine, or check fuel level, all from the
convenience of an Apple Watch, compatible smartwatch or Amazon
Alexa-enabled device. It is voice controllable and compatible with
select Android or Apple devices.
Premium Power, Exemplary Efficiency
The front-wheel drive Avalon's 24-valve, DOHC 3.5-liter V-6
engine features Toyota's D-4S fuel injection system, which combines
direct injection with supplemental port fuel injectors. In
addition, the engine uses a VVT-iW (Variable Valve
Timing-intelligent Wide) system for the intake, with VVT-i on
the exhaust. The VVT-iW system can switch the engine to the
Atkinson cycle, which reduces pumping losses by delayed closing of
the intake valves, helping to reduce fuel consumption.
Output for the V-6 is 301 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 267
lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 rpm. Thanks to Toyota's
innovative engine tech, the powerful V-6 Avalon models
return exemplary fuel efficiency: manufacturer projected
EPA-estimated range rating of 22 city/32 highway/26 combined MPG
for the XLE grade, and 22/31/25 for all other grades.
The XLE, XSE, TRD and Limited grades have a three-level drive
mode selection (ECO, NORMAL, SPORT), while Touring grades feature
four-level drive mode selection, including ECO, NORMAL, SPORT/
SPORT+, and CUSTOM.
With SPORT+ mode activated, occupants hear a concert of
exciting, natural sounds conveyed through an exhaust system with
sport-modified baffles, an Intake Sound Generator (ISG), Active
Noise Control (ANC), and Engine Sound Enhancement (ESE). All can be
switched off to enjoy the serenity of Avalon's serene interior.
That quietness is assured by the TNGA-K platform's expansive use
of sound insulation, which includes additional seals where the
front fenders meet the front doors and where the doors merge at the
B-pillars. More sound absorption material is found in the engine
bay, within the carpet pad, under the floor, and in the wheel well
liners. The shape of the exterior rearview mirrors not only reduces
aerodynamic drag, but also wind noise.
The new Avalon AWD option is teamed with the 2.5-liter Dynamic
Force four-cylinder engine, which employs a very high compression
ratio (13:1) and D-4S fuel injection. The engine is chock-full of
Toyota's most advanced technologies, including Dual VVT-i Variable
Valve Timing intelligent system by Electric motor (VVT-iE) and
laser-clad valve seats. Output is 205 hp at 6,600 rpm and 185
lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,600 rpm.
Eight Gears, Smooth Shifting
Avalon V-6 and AWD models are equipped with the Direct Shift
eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers satisfyingly
smooth, quick-shifting for a remarkable blend of performance and
refinement. The close mid-range ratios improve passing performance,
while the wide range of torque converter lock-up yields a more
direct driving feel and contributes to fuel efficiency. Steering
wheel-mounted paddle shifters are standard on TRD, XSE and Touring.
When downshifting, the transmission automatically "rev-matches" for
smoother shifts.
Avalon Hybrid: The Most Fuel-Efficient Avalon Ever
The 2021 Avalon Hybrid manufacturer-projected
EPA-estimated fuel economy range rating is expected to be the
envy of a subcompact car: 43 city/44 highway/44 MPG combined for
XLE Hybrid (43/43/43 MPG for other Hybrid grades). The
advanced Toyota Hybrid System (THS II) combines the output of a
specially engineered version of the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force
four-cylinder engine and an electric motor (MG1). That motor and a
second motor (MG2) charge the hybrid battery pack.
The super-smooth inline four uses an even higher compression
ratio (14:1) than in the AWD models and employs a variable cooling
system, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, and a full
variable oil pump. Total hybrid system output is 215 hp. On
the Hybrid XSE, Sequential Shiftmatic technology allows
the driver to "shift" the electronically controlled continuously
variable transmission (ECVT). It mimics a quick-shifting six-speed
automatic transmission via paddle shifters or with the
console-mounted shift lever.
The TNGA-K platform's packaging allows the Lithium-ion battery
pack to be installed beneath the rear seat for no sacrifice in
trunk capacity over the gas Avalon models.
The Avalon Hybrid models feature NORMAL, ECO, EV, and SPORT
drive system modes. SPORT mode livens the Hybrid's performance feel
by allowing quicker acceleration response.
Finally, for hyper-milers seeking the highest fuel efficiency,
Avalon Hybrid includes the clever Auto Glide Control (AGC) system,
which essentially gives the car a coasting feature. When activated,
AGC limits the loss of vehicle speed through engine braking, acting
more like a neutral gear to allow longer coasting. An AGC indicator
light illuminates on the multi-information display to alert the
driver of reduced engine braking.
Smooth Rider, Sharp Handler
The Avalon's multi-link rear suspension is key to its positive
performance attributes, such as a wider rear track, lower center of
gravity, and an assertive stance. The XSE and Touring grades
feature sport-tuned suspension, while the Touring also adds
exclusive Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), an electronically
controlled damping system usually seen on luxury models.
AVS helps to increase controllability and handling
agility without sacrificing one for the other. The setup reduces
Avalon's posture fluctuations under hard or sudden directional
changes, limits body movements, and yet absorbs road undulations
for a comfortable, flat ride.
Levels of AVS damping force are continuously variable through a
range of up to 650 steps. Changes in solenoid force on each shock
absorber that restrict fluid flow and, thus, damping, occur in an
incredible 20 milliseconds. The driver can adjust Avalon's
ride feel with the push of a button: NORMAL mode prioritizes
comfort, while SPORT+ emphasizes tauter handling without
diminishing ride suppleness. SPORT+ also amplifies Avalon's driving
spirit by quickening throttle response, increasing feedback in the
Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and enhancing engine sound in the
cabin.
Standard Toyota Safety System-P
All Avalon models come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense-P
(TSS-P) suite of active safety systems that includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Automatic High Beams
Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent
Clearance Sonar with Rear Cross Traffic Braking are also
available.
In addition to the standard backup camera, Avalon offers the
available Bird's Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan. The system
uses front- side-, and rear-mounted cameras to display a composite
view as seen from above.
All 2021 Avalon models are equipped with 10 standard airbags and
Toyota's Star Safety System, which includes Enhanced Vehicle
Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force
Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart
Stop Technology.
Assembled with Pride in Kentucky
The fifth-generation Avalon is a collaborative development by
Toyota's U.S.-based design, engineering, and manufacturing entities
at Calty Design Research Inc. (Calty) in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Toyota Motor North
America Research and Development (TMNA R&D) in Saline, Michigan; and Toyota Motor
Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.
(TMMK) in Georgetown, Kentucky.
The latter has been Avalon's sole manufacturing home for more than
two decades. All Avalons sold in America and around the
globe are assembled there by proud team members.
Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare
Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies
to all components other than normal wear and maintenance
items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for
60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. On the
Avalon Hybrid grades, all HV components are covered under the
Hybrid System Warranty for 8 years/100,000 miles. Additionally, the
hybrid battery warranty is now 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever
comes first. The Avalon also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a plan
covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside
assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes
first.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the
U.S. and North America for more
than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable,
next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands.
During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous value chain as
our teams have contributed to world-class design, engineering, and
assembly of more than 38 million cars and trucks in North America, where we have 14 manufacturing
plants, 15 including our joint venture in Alabama (10 in the U.S.), and directly employ
more than 47,000 people (over 36,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North
American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.) sold 2.8 million
cars and trucks (2.4 million in the U.S.) in 2019.
Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights
the way it partners with community, civic, academic and
governmental organizations to address our society's most pressing
mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move,
anything is possible. For more information about Toyota,
visit ToyotaNewsroom.com.
Media Contacts:
Zachary Reed
469-292-3499
zachary.reed@toyota.com
Note to Editors: Photos and b-roll can be found on
ToyotaNewsroom.com
For customer inquiries, please call: 800-331-4331
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SOURCE Toyota