Car switches to the TNGA modular platform.
The 2019 Toyota Avalon has a new design, but its mission remains the same. It offers more space, style and more features than the Camry sedan, which is why it is considered a premium vehicle. The 2019 Avalon will have more horsepower and better fuel economy than the previous model.
The Avalon’s new version is built on a version the Toyota New Global Architecture platform (TNGA), which has been rolled out under both the Prius, and Camry. The dimensions of the new Avalon have changed in the same direction that designers love: shorter, lighter, and wider. The wheelbase is up by 2.0 inches, and the overall length is up by 0.7″. Overall height is down by 1 inch, and width rises by 0.8 inch. The passenger compartment is responsible for most of the length increase. Toyota claims that the rear cabin extends 7 inches further back than it did before.
The Camry is a strong inspiration for the Camry’s design. There are many strong lines and creases to break up the body. The LED taillights feature a sequential activation design and the headlights are striking thanks to an LED running light design. The Camry’s XSE and Touring models will sport a more aggressive look with accents like a trunk spoiler and quad exhaust tips. The Avalon’s drag coefficient drops from 0.28 to 0.27 with the new sleeker design.
The 2019 Avalon adopts a new rear suspension setup thanks to its switch to the TNGA platform. It uses a multilink arrangement in place of the old car’s struts. The Touring trim level features the new Adaptive Varable Suspension, which can adjust the shocks to any of 650 damping settings in 20 milliseconds.
The TNGA platform is said to be better at keeping unwanted sounds out of the cabin. This allows the interior of the new Avalon “library-quiet” thanks to improved door seals and additional insulation. Toyota claims that even the most aerodynamic side-view reflectors reduce wind noise. Toyota includes noise-generating features in addition to active noise cancellation technology that mutes unwanted sounds. “Engine Sound Enhancement” and “Intake Sound Generator”, both use the JBL sound system, to make more engine noise for the driver and passengers. This is apparently contrary to the car’s stated goal to provide serene, quiet transportation.
There’s still plenty of acceleration with both the 3.5-liter V6 and optional hybrid engines. The V6 is now a new engine that can switch to Toyota’s D4S dual fuel-injection system. Toyota claims horsepower has increased over the previous model’s rating of 268 horsepower and 248 pounds-feet torque. However, Toyota doesn’t give any numbers; the Camry boasts the same engine with 301 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft.
Toyota promises that the Avalon will have a more efficient fuel economy by having an eight-speed automatic in place of the six-speed. The automatic is available on the XSE and Touring models with shift paddles for drivers who need speed.
A 2.5-liter inline four engine is mated to two motor-generators and a nickel-metal-hydride battery. This hybrid powertrain is also brand new. Toyota claims that the battery pack is now located under the back seat, instead of beneath the trunk floor. Other electronics in the system have been also made smaller and lighter. Similar to the V6, horsepower and fuel economy are expected to increase, although no figures are available yet. Current model has an EPA rating of 40 mpg city and 39 mpg on the highway.
Although many of the interior parts are identical to the Toyota Camry’s, the 2019 Avalon appears to have more elegant touches and a new center stack design. For example, the Limited trim level features real wood trim and aluminum trim.
The dash features a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, which is standard on all trims. However, Android users are still out in the cold. Amazon Alexa connectivity will be available on the Avalon, which allows owners to “talk” with their Echo devices to remotely start, unlock, and lock the Avalon. The Avalon also has a standard wireless charging system and a 14-speaker sound system. There are five USB ports. A 7-inch color trip computer is available to the driver, as well as a 10-inch color head up display.
Unsurprisingly, active-safety technology can be found in many places. The 2019 Avalon includes 10 airbags. It also comes standard with precollision brake with pedestrian detection, adaptive speed control, lane-keep assistance, automatic high beams and blind spot monitoring. A panoramic camera system with parking sensors and rear cross-traffic brake feature are available as an option.
It appears that Toyota has fulfilled its promise to deliver a premium, spacious sedan experience with the Avalon in most aspects. The new suspension and TNGA platform could make the Avalon more appealing. Powertrains will improve on economy and power, and the car may be even more fun to drive.
The 2019 Toyota Avalon will go on sale in the spring.
