When it comes to largish, mainstream sedans,
Toyota’s Avalon isn't exactly the most desirable choice out there. The current
car is somewhat of a wallflower in a segment that's not seeing much in the way
of consumer foot traffic.
Nevertheless, the Japanese carmaker is moving ahead
with plans for an all-new version; that should bring some youthfulness back
into a dying large sedan market. How fresh will it look? Well let's take an
illustrative sneak-peak. If you thought
the grille on the out-going car was big enough, then think again. A larger
front opening flares out from the bottom and intersects with a smaller grille
between the LED headlamps.
The side view highlights the Avalon’s typical
front-wheel-drive proportions mixed with a fastback profile. Sheet-metal
surfacing along the doors exudes a curious mix of swept creases, lower door
scollops and prominent rear haunches. Speaking of the rear, there's more than a
hint of Lexus with its horizontal led tail-lights, quad exhaust tips and subtle
spoiler.
Toyota's new flexible global architecture (TNGA)
will underpin the next Avalon - although it’s not known if it’ll be a global
offering. What does this mean for North American buyers? Well, more occupant
space in a lighter body, that isn’t much bigger than the current car.
Lessons learned with latest Camry will also yield a
better drive, with a new multilink rear suspension to aid in driving dynamics.
Advanced driver assist technologies, better cabin materials, comfort and
presentation will also feature.
Starting out the range will be Toyota’s latest
2.5-litre, ‘Dynamic Force’ gasoline four-cylinder with around 206 HP and 186
lb-ft of torque, sending power to the front wheels via a 8-speed auto. Don't
expect the current car’s V6 to disappear either, but rather gain some extra
horsepower and improved fuel efficiency.
For the ultimate blend of power and efficiency, look
for the Atkinson/Otto cycle hybrid to appear utilizing a 2.5-litre dynamic
force mill mated to an electric motor. Let's be frank here; large saloons no
longer sell in huge numbers. Most buyers are flocking to SUV’s with rivals like
Kia’s Cadenza, Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Ford Taurus
battling to keep afloat - even the latter is being relegated for Chinese-only
consumption in the near future.
Look for an official reveal later this year or
possibly at the 2018 Detroit Motor Show.
