Toyota has formally launched the 2019 Avalon sedan in the UAE. The sedan is the manufacturer's attempt at pulling people back into the world of sedans in place of crossovers.
The current global automotive market trend is heavily in favour of crossovers and SUVs. The sedan segment is not as profitable anymore as it used to be. The arrival of the 2019 Toyota Avalon is the Japanese automaker's attempt to stanch the bleeding sedan segment, and possibly draw more customers in through the tech and features it offers.
The new Toyota Avalon is a ground-up refreshed version of the old one. It sits on the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform which currently does duty under the current-gen Camry and Prius. The new platform promises a quieter, more refined ride. The new Avalon is longer, wider, and taller than the outgoing one. The rear legroom, for instance, has been increased by 20cm, liberating massive space for the occupants. The Avalon takes its looks after the Camry with a sharper design. And that massive grille makes it unmistakable in any situation, so much so that the all-LED headlamps fall short of balancing out the domineering front fascia.
The interior of the 2019 Toyota Avalon is opulent and full of comfort and convenience features one would expect of a typical executive sedan. The Avalon is the first Toyota to feature Apple CarPlay through its 9-inch infotainment touchscreen. There is no Android Auto as of now, but Toyota could introduce it at a later date. There is, however, Amazon Alexa connectivity that allows users to talk to the echo device to lock and fire up the car remotely. Other amenities include a total of five USB charging ports, available wireless charging, a 7-inch trip computer as well as a 10-inch head-up display.
When it comes to safety, the 2019 Toyota Avalon does not disappoint. It has a comprehensive suite of safety systems starting with 10 airbags, pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind spot warning. Owners can also spec their Avalon with a panoramic parking camera and a rear cross-traffic braking system.
The 2019 Toyota Avalon comes with a choice of powertrains that include a V6 and an inline-four motor. A hybrid drivetrain is optional but available. Toyota hasn't released specifications of the engines yet, but we can estimate the 3.5-litre V6's power and torque output at 305hp and 362Nm respectively since this engine currently powers the Camry. The 2.5-litre inline-four motor can be specced with two electric motors as part of the optional hybrid setup. A nickel-metal hydride battery saves the power for the motors.
Pricing and delivery details are yet to emerge, but it does look like Toyota has a winner in its lineup with the 2019 Avalon.
