New 2013 Toyota Avalon to offer hybrid variant

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Toyota announced that its 2013 Avalon sedan will offer the choice of a gasoline engine and the company's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, making it the first full hybrid in the premium midsize segment.

With a fresh new design, improved dynamic performance, high levels of refinement, and a roomier interior featuring a large number of advanced technologies, the 2013 Toyota Avalon looks ripe for success.

The standard model uses a 3.5L DOHC V6 that produces 268 horsepower and offers three driving modes – ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT. Meanwhile, the Avalon Hybrid gets a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine, a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and a pair of electric motor/generators to deliver a net output of 200 horsepower. Once again, three driving modes are available – EV, ECO, and SPORT.

The EPA ratings stand at 25 mpg (9.4L/100km) for the V6 model and 40 mpg (5.9L/100km) for the hybrid variant.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon is scheduled to hit the market later this year. Stay tuned for Canadian pricing and specifications.

Photo: Toyota

Photo: Toyota