The Avalon has always been the most upscale, and the biggest, car in Toyota's U.S. line-up. But it's also been tagged as a car for older drivers. The new version was designed and engineered in the U.S. to appeal to younger Americans.
Along with a nicer exterior and richer-feeling interior, the new Avalon also features improved suspension, Toyota says, and three selectable driving modes including Eco and Sport.
Pains were also taken to reduce interior noise as much as possible, said Toyota. (Toyota hasn't yet released information about the car's engine and transmission choices.)
On top of all that -- and this isn't new -- the Avalon's mammoth backseat legroom outstrips that of any car Toyota's luxury brand, Lexus, currently offers.
Lexus cars still offer better amenities, like more sophisticated entertainment interfaces, said Gregg Benkendorfer, who heads Toyota's car marketing. But some customers are still after the best car for the dollar.
"Some people say 'I'm not going to make that leap for four or five thousand dollars," he said.
The new Avalon is expected to go on sale later this year.
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