The 2013 Toyota Avalon will be available in XLE, XLE Premium, XLE Touring and Limited trims. The hybrid is available on all but the base XLE model. The Avalon was previously available in base and Limited trims; base models started at $33,990.
The gas-powered Avalon’s 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 is a carryover from last year; the all-new hybrid model uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors for a total output of 200 hp. It has not yet been EPA rated but Toyota expects it to get 40/39 mpg city/highway.
The Avalon Hybrid has no direct competitors, but shoppers also could consider large cars like the Volkswagen Passat TDI (30/40 automatic; 31/43 mpg manual) or the 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (45/45 mpg).
Both gas and hybrid models go on sale in the beginning of December. Trim level pricing, including a $795 destination fee, and equipment is below.
Avalon XLE Premium (gas): $33,990 Adds: Backup camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, moonroof, garage-door opener and an Eco switch (hybrid models).
XLE Touring (gas): $36,295 Adds: Fog lamps, display audio with navigation and Entune multimedia system, blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert, side mirror and driver’s seat memory, 18-inch alloy wheels (gas models), Eco switch (gas models) and paddle shifters (gas only).
Limited (gas): $40,445 Adds: High-intensity-discharge headlights, LED daytime running lights, premium leather seats, auto-dimming side mirrors, puddle lamps, rain-sensing wipers, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, high-resolution touch-screen, JBL audio system, color climate-control screen, sunshade, rear climate controls and ambient lighting.
News Editor Jennifer Geiger joined the automotive industry in 2003, much to the delight of her Corvette-obsessed dad. Jennifer is an expert reviewer, certified car-seat technician and mom of three. She wears a lot of hats — many of them while driving a minivan.