Toyota introduced the boldly redesigned 2011 Avalon today at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, with a restyled interior rich with premium touch points and practical new technologies. And don’t worry, this 2011 model is not on the recall list (crossing fingers). The new Avalon has dynamic and expressive lines, and an infusion of comfort, safety and technology advancements for the daily drivers. In this new bold and aggressive look, a wider, more substantial grille ties into state-of-the-art projector headlamps with a broad, front hood to suggest a lowered center of gravity and emphasize the Avalon’s wide stance along with new 10-spoke 17-inch wheels.
New redesigned equipment and technology features, such as a touch-screen navigation system with real-time traffic, and Bluetooth hands-free phone capability with music streaming to the audio system are among the improvements that enhance the 2011 Avalon’s excellent blend of spaciousness, comfort and technology for your daily commute or just cruising to your vacation destination.
The 2011 Avalon will be available in two trims in the spring of 2010, Avalon and Limited. Both trims will be equipped with standard equipment like eight-way leather-trimmed power driver’s seats, back-up camera, dual zone automatic climate control with air filtration, moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels. But the Limited trim will have an eight-way passenger’s seat with lumbar support, driver’s seat cushion extension, rain-sensing wipers, Smart Key and cooled leather seats. Additional upgrade equipment such as a JBL Synthesis sound system and heated front seats are also available, while Navigation is optional for both trims.
In the powertrain department, the 2011 Avalon is powered by a 24-valve, dual-overhead cam 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. The engine is also equipped with the latest dual VVT-i electronic valve-control mechanism to provide a broader powerband, while maintaining less fuel consumption and generating lesser emissions. The engine is shifted through a multi-mode six-speed automatic transmission.
There are seven airbags in teh Toyota Avalon, including a front knee bag for the driver, and front side curtain airbags for both rows, are also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and TRAC traction control system are standard equipment as well. TRAC and VSC functions can be disengaged if the driver needs to free the vehicle if stuck in mud or snow.
The redesigned 2011 Avalon will be arriving at a Toyota dealer near you by spring 2010. Pricing is not yet available but expected to be released a few months before its release date.
The new front end is lame as was the old front end. Also, the Toyota badge on the grille is Escalade HUGE. Interior is the only good news here.