While numerous aspects of the all-new 2013 Toyota Avalon were detailed at the 2012 New York Auto Show in April, the automaker remained decidedly less forthcoming about the powertrain choices its premium full-size sedan would offer when it went on sale later this year. That matter has now been clarified with official word that the conventional Avalon V6 will be joined by an even more fuel-efficient sibling: the 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid.
On the V6 side of the ledger, the baseline Avalon will continue with the existing 3.5-liter V6 that makes 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque as well as retaining its 6-speed automatic transaxle. However both elements have been tweaked to deliver better overall performance and improved economy. Reprogrammed system electronics and a numerically lower differential ratio will let the new Avalon V6 run from 0-60 mph in under 7.0 seconds and raise its EPA numbers from 20 city/28 highway mpg to 21/31 mpg.
The new Avalon Hybrid moves that mileage marker considerably higher, earning EPA marks of 40 mpg city/39 mpg highway and a combined 40 mpg stat. It does so by using the same basic Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain components found in the new 2013 Lexus ES 300h Hybrid. Key elements include a 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle 4-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motor/generator units energized by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack and teamed with an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission that ships all 200 total system horsepower to the front wheels. Like the Lexus ES 300h, the Avalon Hybrid can be operated in EV, ECO and Sport modes and driven under pure battery power at speeds of up to 25 mph for approximately one mile.
Pricing for both the 2013 Toyota Avalon V6 and the new Avalon Hybrid will be released closer to their on-sale date.
