NEW FOR 2014:
- No major changes.
Last year’s introduction of the fourth-generation Avalon gave Toyota’s flagship sedan a much needed booster shot of style and appeal. It carries on into its second year with no major changes.
The Avalon shares its platform and powertrains with the Lexus ES, but unlike the Lexus, the Toyota aims to take a more sporty approach at full-size motoring. Behind its contemporary styling are considerably sharper steering and a much firmer ride, which may not appeal to the Avalon’s traditional customers. The words “float” and “beige” are completely out of its vocabulary, though.
There are two trims of Avalon on offer: XLE and Limited. Both use a 3.5-litre 268-hp V6 engine, and drive the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.
Standard equipment on the XLE includes 18-inch alloy wheels, selectable drive modes, acoustic windshield, power sunroof, power heated mirrors with integrated signals, variable intermittent wipers, automatic headlights, fog lamps, chrome exhaust, leather upholstery, heated front seats, power eight-way driver’s seat and four way passenger’s seat, driver memory system, rear-seat pass through, simulated leather door trim, chrome interior trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, power door locks, power windows with auto-up, electroluminescent instruments, auto-dimming rear view mirror with digital compass, illuminated vanity mirrors, leather-warpped steering wheel, tilt and telescoping steering column, proximity key with push-button start, cruise control, console with tech device management system, front console armrest, integrated garage door opener, courtesy door lamps, map lights, trunk cargo net, 12-volt power outlet, 6.95-inch display audio system with navigation, AM/FM/CD/MP3, satellite radio, USB, Bluetooth, text-message assistant, nine-speaker audio system, steering wheel audio and cruise controls, reverse camera, 3.5-inch TFT information display with trip computer, and alarm.
Limited adds interactive TFT colour climate control panel, perforated leather seats, ventilated front seats, 10-way adjustable driver and eight-way adjustable front passenger seat, aluminum scuff plates, auto-dimming side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, full LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, blind-spot monitor, and cross-traffic alert.
The Premium Package adds 11-speaker JBL sound system, tri-zone climate control, heated rear seats, pre-collision warning, radar cruise control, automatic high beams, and power rear window sunshade.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed