All-new Toyota Avalon makes a distinctive impression over the previous model.
There are several versions of the 2019 Toyota Avalon. The XLE, XSE and Limited are available with a hybrid powertrain. The V6 model adds a fourth “Touring” trim to the mix, in addition to the other three. We had an opportunity to drive a 2019 Toyota Avalon Limited Hybrid and a 2019 Toyota Avalon Touring back-to-back and put together a few driving impressions along the way.
Just like its little brother the Toyota Camry, the 2019 Toyota Avalon has a direct-injected 301 horsepower that makes 267 lb-ft ion torque. The only transmission available is an eight-speed automatic that feeds the front wheels. Despite its size, it is a front-wheel drive (FWD) only vehicle.
Opt for the hybrid power-plant and you get the Toyota Hybrid System II, which packs a 650-volt electric motor connected to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine which makes a combined 215 hp. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is the only transmission available with this setup.
Adaptive Variable Suspension adds some fun to an otherwise ordinary car
Toyota Adaptive Variable Suspension is standard in the 2019 Toyota Avalon Touring. That helps make the Touring into the most entertaining of all the models. Toyota used “augmented” induction and exhaust noise (which they pipped into the cabin) along with a fairly aggressive exhaust note to beef up the all-new Toyota Avalon Touring’s sound. Select “Sport +” and play with the paddle-shifters and the big Avalon Touring becomes downright playful.
The Toyota Avalon in Touring trim stiffens up and grabs the road with real tenacity.
The new Toyota Avalon Limited hybrid is exactly the opposite of the Touring model. While not outright sporty, it’s comfortable, smooth and extremely efficient. Not only that, but you average 43 mpg in just about any form of driving. Most importantly, the overall feel of the 2019 Toyota Avalon Limited hybrid is rather Lexus-like. Power is acceptable, but grip on high speed corners is limited. It plows and leans quite a bit.
In this video, we cover driving impressions, technical information, pricing and MPG! Stay tuned for more updates. Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow on YouTube for more videos featuring your favorite new models. If you enjoy our content, please consider donating to TFL on Patreon!
