FIRST GENERATION

The Avalon was introduced for the 1995 model year. The Avalon was built on a stretched Camry platform featuring a 3.0-liter V6 engine making 192 hp. With 121 cu ft of space, the Avalon was the most spacious Japanese car marketed in America.

In 1998, the Avalon’s structure was modified to improve safety, and front seat-mounted side airbags were standard. The 1997 models had standard ABS, and power increased to 200 hp. Traction control was optional.

SECOND GENERATION

The second-generation Avalon was larger except for the wheelbase. It had a 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic.

This Avalon was available with the basic XL and the classy XLS. Standard features included ABS, side airbags, and 15″ alloy wheels. Options included an upgraded audio system, Stability Control, and a front-row bench seat with six-passenger seating. Dual climate control, 16″ wheels, and power seats were also optional. The second-generation Avalon also had an AC power inverter.

For the 2003 model year, the Avalon had a new grille, modified headlights, different tail lights, and an optional navigation system. A woodgrain-style trimmed steering wheel was added for the XLS.

THIRD GENERATION

In 2005 the Avalon was redesigned, and Toyota cut product development time.

A redesign increased rear passenger comfort.

The Avalon was the first Toyota to use a ULEV-certified 3.5-liter V6 engine with a power output of 280 hp and a 0–60 time of 6.0 seconds. This engine was connected to an automatic 5-speed sequential shift transmission.

The 3rd generation Avalon had four optional trims: XL, Touring, XLS, and Limited.

The XL came with dual-climate automatic temperature controls, steering wheel-mounted audio, and climate controls. The Touring trim presented an aluminum and black leather interior, sport suspension, unique wheels, and a trunk-mounted spoiler. The XLS had cargo nets, a CD player, a power moonroof, and a passenger power seat. The most expensive Limited Avalon presented ventilated, keyless start, an acoustic windshield, automatically activated windshield wipers, JBL audio system, LED turn signals, and a fancy steering wheel. The rear floor was designed flat and had reclining rear seats. Vehicle Stability Control was optional for all vehicles. Remote Engine Start, glass breakage sensor and rear window power sunshade were optional, and a Dynamic Laser Cruise Control system was available on Limited models. Touring and Limited had standard HID lighting with auto-leveling.

SAFETY

Standard safety equipment on the Avalon is anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, dual front airbags, side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag. In 2009 models Vehicle Stability Control, control was standard and active head restraints were included.

FOURTH GENERATION

The Lexus ES platform was used in the redesigned Avalon. The redesign included a new grille and redesigned lights as were used on the Camry. Tap-touch technology was used for interior controls instead of buttons.

HYBRID EDITION

A hybrid powertrain was announced for the new Avalon. The 2013 hybrid gasoline-electric model uses the one on the 2012 Camry Hybrid. The EPA rated the Avalon Hybrid as 40 mpg. A 2.5 L inline-4 engine powers the Avalon Hybrid. Along with the electric motor, there is a total output of 200 bhp. There is a 1.6 kWh nickel-metal hydride NiMH battery.

FIFTH GENERATION

The fifth-generation Avalon went on sale in the US in May 2018. XLE, XSE, Touring, and Limited are the trim levels offered in the Avalon Hybrid. Optional adaptive suspension is provided in the Touring model.

POWERTRAIN

Four engine choices are offered: a 2.5 L inline-four with 207 hp, a 301 hp 3.5 L V6, and a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5 L 176 hp inline-four coupled with a 118 hp electric motor. The combined power output is 215 hp. The hybrid has a nickel metal hydride (NiMH) pack. The V6 was EPA rated at 22 mpg. The Avalon Hybrid is EPA rated at 43 mpg.