2016
Toyota Avalon and Avalon Hybrid
Toyota
has revealed full specifications of the U.S.-spec 2016 Toyota Avalon and Avalon
Hybrid. The facelifted model made its debut at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show in
February. The facelifted model gets a several styling tweaks including a
revised lower grille and LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and
vertical turn signals.
A
new XLE Plus grade has also been added that features an Entune Audio Plus
system with a 7-inch screen and Connected Navigation Scout GPS link, which
provides navigation through the user’s smartphone. The XLE Premium trim level
boasts of the upgraded Entune Premium audio unit that comes with in-vehicle
navigation, App Suite and Qi wireless charging for smartphones.
The
Limited models on the other hand, bring in super chrome alloy wheels to the
look while also offering a host of safety systems with the optional Toyota
Safety Sense-P package. This package includes systems such as Automatic High
Beam headlights, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System with
Pedestrian Detection and Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist.
Power
for the 2016 Avalon is provided by a 3.5-liter Dual VVT-i naturally aspirated
V6 gasoline engine. This unit generates 268 hp and 336 Nm of
torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the Avalon is claimed to
reach 60 mph (97 km/h) from standstill in less than seven seconds. The combined
EPA-rated fuel economy is 24 MPG (10.20 km/l).
The
Avalon hybrid lineup has two trim levels, the XLE Plus as the base and XLE
Premium as the top-end. Power comes from Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system
that combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine with a permanent
magnet AC synchronous motor. Both these units give a combined output of 200 hp
which is sent to the wheels through a CVT-automatic gearbox. The hybrid gives a
combined EPA-estimated fuel economy of 40 mpg (17 km/l) and the maximum speed
achievable in pure electric mode is 20 mph (32 km/h). The electric motor draws
power from a 244.8 Volt nickel-metal-hydride battery that is also charged by
regenerative braking. The company says that the compact nature of the battery
allows for 396.43 liters of luggage capacity.
The
new range is not short on safety as it comes equipped with 10 standard airbags
and Toyota Star Safety System, which comprises of Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle
Stability Control (VSC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Traction
Control (TRAC), Smart Stop brake-override Technology (SST) and Anti-lock Brake
System (ABS).
Exterior
colors available are Ooh La La Rouge Mica, Blizzard Pearl, Midnight Black
Metallic, Cosmic Gray Mica, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Sizzling Crimson Mica and
Parisian Night Pearl among others. The new model comes with a 36-month or
36,000 miles comprehensive warranty.
