Toyota Avalon: Larger, More Luxurious and More Powerful - Maintain

An estimated fuel economy of 22 city and 31 highway miles per gallon is another amenity of the new redesign. New exterior enhancements include a dual rear exhaust, front chrome grille, and a four-inch longer wheelbase. The extended wheelbase adds to the interior space and comfort of the passengers. Also new are the rear reclining seats, which recline up to 10 degrees. All models in the range feature front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, in addition to a driver's knee airbag. A brake-assist system determines whether a driver has used the full potential of the brakes in an emergency; if the system senses that more braking is required, ABS will activate until the pedal is released. Comfort is the key word when it comes to the Avalon. The new Avalon is 5 inches longer than its predecessor is, and by rerouting the exhaust pipes, Toyota engineers created a flat floor in the back and 40.9 inches of legroom, versus 35.6 inches in the Lexus ES330. For added comfort, the Avalon's rear seats recline by 10 degrees. It's also more powerful and roomier inside than the Lexus ES330. "The all-new Avalon is distinctive, stylish and the most American vehicle of any Toyota product to date," said Don Esmond, senior vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division in the United States. The Avalon comes equipped with a new 3.5L V6 280-hp engine paired to a five-speed sequential shift automatic transmission. With this new engine, the Avalon can go from 0 to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds.