Redesigned Avalon brings top fuel ecomony in mid-size sedan
Fuel efficiency has been a Toyota mantra since its cars first arrived in America in the 1960s. The redesigned Toyota Avalon is no exception.
“Our target was to dramatically improve all aspects of dynamic performance,” said Avalon Chief Engineer Randy Stephens explained, “Especially in the areas of fuel efficiency, handling and performance.”
The 2013 Avalon is the lightest and most fuel efficient of mid-sized, premium sedans. The 268-horsepower six-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 21/31 mileage for city/highway driving. Its sister model, the 200-horsepower hybrid system, gets an EPA-estimated 40/39 mileage for city/highway driving.
Toyota credited the impressive mileage to a combination of weight reduction and powertrain developments that reduce component mass and overall friction. In all, the 2013 Avalon is more than 100 pounds lighter than its predecessor.
“Less mass makes Avalon more responsive and engaging near handling limits,” said Stephen Provost, Manager of Ride and Handling. “Also, with less mass, less tire width is needed to reach competitive grip levels. The smaller width helps minimize drag losses which enhances fuel economy, too.”
According to Toyota engineers, the lighter vehicle has less resistance for acceleration and a lower vehicle weight that reduces tire rolling resistance, allowing it to roll more freely.
The 2013 Avalon features a 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle, which has been enhanced to offer more responsive and efficient performance. The all-aluminum six-cylinder engine will produce 268 horsepower and 248 lbs. ft. of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in less than seven seconds. Compared to the previous-generation Avalon, this 2013 powertrain combination offers improved fuel economy, performance, superior shift feel and response, with upgraded drivability and quietness.
Powertrain programming has been updated with ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT Modes. ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by reducing power application at lower speeds and reducing energy consumed by the air-conditioning system. SPORT Mode provides increased acceleration responses though altered engine control unit programming, and it offers a more direct and responsive EPS programming to enhance steering feel.
For the hybrid mode, the 2013 Avalon incorporates Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. A power-control unit located in the engine compartment houses an inverter, a DC-DC converter, a step-up converter (raises voltage to a maximum of 650 volts) and the hybrid-drive ECU.
The hybrid technology delivers seamless operation of electric-motor power application and regenerative braking. Liquid cooling in the power control unit helps maintain an efficient temperature.
Improvements in the fuel efficiency of the 2013 Avalon echo high standards on all models in the US. Toyota offers the most fuel-efficient line of vehicles, including the 2013 Prius at a combined EPA-rating of 48 mpg and 2013 Camry sedans at a combined EPA rating of 33 mpg.