Losing weight is never easy, but dropping pounds can often lead to a big reward. Such is the case for the 2013 Toyota Avalon, which has shed 110 pounds compared to the 2012 model to become more dynamic and fuel efficient. When the premium midsize sedan arrives at dealerships later this year, it will weigh in at a healthy 3,461 pounds, becoming the lightest vehicle in its segment.
Cutting the Avalon's curb weight was not an easy task for engineers, considering the new features and improved performance targets that Toyota had in mind. The automaker incorporated lighter weight materials in the car's body construction, and the designs of the seat structure and wheels were altered to achieve mass reduction. Meanwhile, the 2013 Avalon uses high-strength steel in the pillars and rocker panels to not only reduce weight, but also stiffen the sedan's frame, maintaining crash protection while enabling a quieter ride and better handling.
"The new Avalon may have gone on a weight-loss diet for improved performance and efficiency, but it is more substantive than ever when it comes to comfort and convenience," said Wade Sterry, general manager of Russel Toyota, a Baltimore, Maryland Toyota dealer. "It has the premium features, smooth ride and spaciousness that are expected in a highway cruiser, but commuters are going to be making a lot less trips to the gas station."
The upgraded cabin in the 2013 Toyota Avalon includes high-quality wood-grain and metallic trim, improved seat support and a special charging station for phones and other electronics. A lower hip-point in the front seat and a redesigned sunroof contribute to more headroom, while an additional 1.6 cubic feet of space graces the trunk. Outside, a slim upper grille and a larger lower grille create an athletic look for the Avalon, while LED taillights convey a wider, more aggressive stance.
Under its hood, the 2013 Avalon will feature a tweaked version of the current model's 3.5-liter V6 engine to deliver 31 mpg on the highway, an improvement of three miles per gallon. With its lighter weight, the new Avalon is also able to use smaller-width tires, which reduce drag and contribute to those fuel-economy gains. Toyota claims that the vehicle's overall weight loss will also make it more responsive and engaging to drive.
For premium midsize buyers that want the most miles per gallon possible, the first-ever Avalon Hybrid is expected to arrive by the end of this year. Benefiting from the same weight-saving measures as its gas-only brethren, the 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid will weigh just 3,593 pounds, 87 pounds lighter than the smaller 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid. That clever design will help Toyota's new hybrid reach 40 mpg during combined city and highway driving.
"Toyota is the industry leader in fuel economy, and buyers can expect the Avalon Hybrid to have the same benefits as the automaker's other hybrids, with more upscale amenities and even greater comfort," added Sterry. "The gas-electric model promises to deliver the style and sophistication of the regular Avalon with a smaller carbon footprint."
About Russel Toyota:
For more than 40 years, Russel Toyota has relied on a customer-first approach to provide Maryland drivers with only rewarding experiences when it comes to Toyota sales, service and parts. In addition to the dealership’s broad selection of cars, trucks, SUVs and minivans, Baltimore Toyota owners can also take advantage of Russel Toyota’s affordable and thorough maintenance services from their expert team of technicians. Browse their inventory online at www.russeltoyota.com or in person at their Baltimore, Maryland Toyota dealership, located at 6324 Baltimore National Pike. They can also be reached by phone at 410-788-8400 and found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MarylandToyota.
