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Matt Keegan has maintained his love for cars ever since his father taught him kicking tires can be one way to uncover a problem with a vehicle’s suspension system. He since moved on to learn a few things about coefficient of drag, G-forces, toe-heel shifting, and how to work the crazy infotainment system in some random weekly driver. Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources.

First Look: 2019 Toyota Avalon

April 23, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

The fifth-generation Toyota Avalon steps up its game.

2019 Toyota Avalon
The 2019 Toyota Avalon kicks off this model’s fifth generation.

Flagship sedans are a thing of the past, right? After all, the segment continues to shrink as customers shift to crossovers.

The Hyundai Azera is no more and there is talk that the Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Impala will soon receive the ax. The Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger have had their share of updates, but they’re essentially the same since 2011. There is no telling whether we’ll ever see new Dodge and Chrysler models.

California wildflowers.Other than the segment-leading Nissan Maxima, the Buick LaCrosse and Kia’s Cadenza, the flagship sedan market has no other players. Besides the Toyota Avalon, that is.

Indeed, the Toyota Avalon has been a player since it was introduced in 1995. Immediately, Toyota served notice that Oldsmobile, Buick, Mercury and other brand-loyal owners now had a new model to consider, one based on the considerable stellar reputation of the Camry.

2019 Toyota Avalon Background

One year removed from the introduction of the latest Camry and Camry Hybrid, the fifth-generation Avalon makes its debut. The 2019 Toyota Avalon was showcased recently to journalists attending a Toyota-sponsored event in San Diego County, California. Toyota covered the cost of our airfare, hotel, and meals, but the impressions here are all mine.

The 2019 Avalon is based on the same global architecture as the Prius and Camry, the C-HR and RAV4 SUVs, and the upcoming Corolla hatchback. In fact, nearly everything new Toyota produces from this point forward will share a common platform — able to accommodate front-, rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. A shared platform means common parts, saving the automaker money. Lexus will benefit from the new platform too.

As for the Toyota Avalon, it represents a clean sheet design. The new model has a slightly wider track and overall width than the outgoing model. A lowered cowl — which is the front part of the Avalon supporting both the windshield and the dashboard, and a lower rear deck are among the chief design layout changes.

2019 Toyota Avalon

Four Trims Spread Across Two Grades

The 2019 Avalon comes in four trims divided among two grade distinctions. Under the Premium grade are XLE ($35,500) and Limited ($41,800) trims. Under the Sport grade are XSE ($38,000) and Touring ($42,200) trims. As you might surmise, the first grade places an emphasis on luxury, the second one on sportiness. Prices are up $250 versus last year, but Toyota says it is adding $1,700 in features.

You’ll also find an Avalon Hybrid model based on three of the four grades: XLE, XSE and Limited. Importantly, the hybrid price continues to fall and is now just $1,000 more than the gas engine. That’s a small investment for getting nearly double the fuel economy of the gas model.

Other exterior changes include a now unified upper and lower grille, tangential vents, and slim headlamps. Along the profile, the extended wheelbase has reduced overhangs, sharper character lines, and pronounced rocker panel sculpting. From the rear, you’ll find an all-LED connected taillamp design and dual exhaust pipes with available quad chrome tips.

Standard equipment includes LED headlights, heated side mirrors, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Upgrades include power-controlled side mirrors, a moonroof, 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and a sport exhaust system.

Modern and Well-Equipped Interior

The Avalon’s spacious interior seats five and does so without compromise. Standard seating equipment includes eight-way power-adjustable heated front seats with driver two-way lumbar support. On the top trim models, both front seats gain four-way lumbar support along with heating and ventilation, and driver memory settings.

The seats are covered in SofTex, Toyota’s imitation leather material. Upgrades include SofTex with suede-like inserts and on the top trim, premium leather. The cabin is embellished with various materials beginning with hydrographic — also known as immersion printing. The middle two models are trimmed with aluminum, while the Limited has authentic wood.

2019 Toyota Avalon

The rear 60/40 split-folding seats include a smartphone cup-holder in the middle seat armrest (shaped to accommodate your drink or your smartphone). Importantly, the trunk measures 16.1 cubic feet in both the gas and hybrid models. Previously, the hybrid lost cargo space because the battery pack intruded into the trunk. Not so this year as the battery pack now sits underneath the rear seat.

Toyota supplies the 2019 Avalon with a manual tilt-and-telescopic steering column with a leather-wrapped wheel. On the Limited and Touring editions, you’ll find a power-operated column with a heated steering wheel. Toyota also includes paddle shifters with its two Sport grade models.

The Avalon’s center stack is more subdued than the Camry’s and delivers a floating look. This design allows for a wide open and spacious design along with a low-profile center cluster. Additional standard features include keyless entry, all LED lighting, push-button start, dual-zone climate control, and full power accessories.

Technology Highlights

For 2019, the Toyota Avalon offers a long list of tech features. All models now come with a 9-inch touchscreen display, five USB ports, an audio input jack and Entune 3.0 — the latest version of the brand’s infotainment system.

An eight-speaker audio system is standard. It is bundled with Bluetooth, satellite radio, Scout GPS Link, Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, Amazon Alexa integration, Wi-Fi connect and HD Radio. Upgrades include a stellar 14-speaker JBL audio system — it was present on one of our test models, supplying exceptional sound. Other options include a Qi wireless charging pad.

As for safety technologies, you’ll find a suite of safety features under the Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) umbrella. All trims come with a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, and full-range dynamic radar cruise control. Separate from the package, a blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert is also included.

Options available with the two top trims include a sonar system with rear cross-traffic braking and a bird’s eye view camera.

2019 Toyota Avalon

First Look, Initial Impressions

One of the toughest things about a media drive is the limited time journalists have with any vehicle. Fortunately, Toyota supplied our group of about two dozen media folk with ample seat time following a one-hour deep dive of all things 2019 Avalon.

The longest of the four mapped routes supplied a decent picture of what the new Avalon is all about. The gas model has a V6 engine generating 301 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid has a four-cylinder engine, a pair of electric motors, and a continuously variable automatic transmission. Under full throttle, you’ll find 215 horsepower at the ready.

Inside and out, the Avalon delivers an exceptional look and feel. The seats are very comfortable, the cabin is quiet and the ride is cushy. Yes, you can dial in sportier modes for a firmer ride. The following are my chief takeaways for the 2019 Avalon.

1. The style is anything, but bland.

2019 Toyota AvalonThe previous generation Avalon had already rid this sedan of its generic looks. Now, we have a class act that may very well be the benchmark for the segment. The Avalon’s strongest competitors are the Buick LaCrosse, Nissan Maxima, and Chrysler’s 300. The first two have modern designs, the Chrysler has aged considerably.

2. Luxury touches are found throughout the interior.

Toyota continues to raise the premium bar in its top models and does so without invading Lexus territory. But the Avalon Limited and Touring have features that may make you think you’re in a Lexus. Even the standard hydrographic trim is exceptionally beautiful to behold.

3. Terrific tech is present, but some things still need work.

My wife and I have been Toyota owners for years. We’re familiar with the product line and how the tech features operate. We give a thumbs down to the Scout GPS Link, a navigation connectivity app with spotty service at best. Happily, the new Avalon now includes Apple CarPlay, which means our iPhones can supply the directions prominently on the big color display. Android Auto customers, however, have to wait a bit longer as Toyota works with Google to ensure that customer’s proprietary information is kept under wraps. And that’s a good thing. As for the available embedded navigation system, it still trails the top systems from GM and Fiat Chrysler. We had some connectivity problems in California, but CarPlay bailed us out.

4. Both sedans offer a capable drive.

The V6 is suited quite well to the sedan, delivering top off-the-mark acceleration and passing power. There was no sign of torque steer even with all those horses sent to the front wheels. Steering is sufficiently weighted and although you won’t necessarily carve corners with this big sedan, you’ll feel confident as you work your way around twisty roads. As for the hybrid, it is tuned to deliver exceptional fuel economy and it probably will. With about 30 percent less power than the gas model, you’ll feel the difference, but it likely won’t be a show-stopper for core hybrid buyers.

2019 Toyota Avalon

5. There are some changes we would like to see.

Toyota, like any other manufacturer, isn’t about to reveal future product or even upcoming updates before they’re ready to do so. Personally, there are a few things I would like to see Toyota offer in the future with the Avalon, including available all-wheel drive. An AWD system supplies an extra measure of handling assurance on slippery roads and is especially welcome in colder climates. Another option would be to make the V6 the hybrid system. Yes, fuel economy would slip, but the performance would be awesome. One way that Toyota could do both is to supply a hybrid system that sends power to the rear wheels, just as it does in the RAV4 Hybrid.

Parting Thoughts: 2019 Toyota Avalon

Kudos to Toyota for staying with its flagship sedan. Even if its competitors also remain in the segment, Toyota now has the freshest and in many ways the best product. Still, some competitors will leave the market. For customers orphaned by their brand favorite, a look at the all-new Avalon should very well satisfy their needs.

The 2019 Avalon arrives in Toyota showrooms in May 2018.

2019 Toyota Avalon


2019 Toyota Avalon/Hybrid Specifications

Toyota 2019 Avalon
Segment Full-size sedan
Base Sticker Price $35,500 (plus $895 destination)
Price as tested NR
Standard Engine 3.5-liter, V6
Horsepower 301 @ 6,600 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 267 @ 4,700 RPMs
Transmission Eight-speed automatic
Hybrid Engine 2.5-liter, I4
Horsepower 176 @ 5,700 RPMs (Net 215 hp)
Torque (lb.-ft.) 163 @ 3,600 to 5,200 RPMs
Transmission Continuously variable automatic
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,560 to 3,704 (Gas); 3,638 to 3,715 (Hybrid)
Wheelbase (inches) 113.0
Length (inches) 195.9
Width (inches) 72.8
Height (inches) 56.5
Head room (f,r — inches) 38.5, 37.9
Leg room (f,r — inches) 42.1, 40.3
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) 58.3, 57.1
Hip room (f,r — inches) 55.8, 54.8
Storage (cubic feet) 16.1
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) N/A
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 14.5 (XLE), 15.8; 13.2 (hybrid)
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 22/32 (XLE Gas), 22/31 (others); 43/44 (XLE Hybrid), 43/43 (others)
Manufacturing Plant Georgetown, Kentucky

See Also — New Toyota Avalon Demonstrates Commitment to a Languishing Segment

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Models Tagged With: 2019 cars, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Entune 3.0, Flagship Sedan, front-wheel drive, Scout GPS Link, TOYOTA AVALON, TOYOTA AVALON HYBRID

The Next-Generation Chevrolet Equinox

April 20, 2018 by admin 4 Comments

Momentum continues with the third-generation Chevy Equinox.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox
This third-generation Chevy Equinox is smaller and lighter than before.

How do you make an already competitive product better? By carefully starting anew, particularly through a clean sheet design, but without forgetting what made the product appealing in the first place.

That’s exactly what Chevrolet has done with the 2018 Equinox, an all-new compact SUV that launches this model’s third generation.

What’s especially noticeable about the new model is that it is smaller and lighter than the one it replaces, taking an unconventional approach for the segment. The move makes sense as previous models were at the top-end of the compact SUV in sizing. The latest Equinox shed up to 400 pounds, clearly enabling it to battle the industry leaders — Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape — with a fresh product.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox

Chevrolet offers the 2018 Equinox in L ($24,575), LS ($28,295), LT ($29,545) and Premier ($35,495) trims. Among the last two trims are three subcategories based on each of the engines offered. Yes, Chevrolet offers three engine choices, taking the same approach as Ford. On the other hand, the top three segment sellers offer just one engine.

We’ll examine the engine choices in detail later, but there is something wholly unique to the Equinox that none of its competitors can claim: an available turbo-diesel engine. The diesel joins a pair of turbo gas engines. Gone are the previous four- and six-cylinder engines from the product line.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox
The all-new Chevrolet Equinox comes in four trims.

Exterior Highlights

Shorter and lighter than the previous model is a trend we aren’t seeing all that much in the auto industry. In some cases, manufacturers are building larger vehicles and shaving pounds in the process. Credit must go to various lightweighting efforts, including greater use of aluminum, carbon fiber, composites and even special steels to save weight.

The look of the 2018 Equinox is thoroughly modern, even sporty. Chiseled edges, deep sculpting, unusual character lines and a flowing roofline give this SUV its look. The front fascia offers a curved grille with upswept headlamps and a narrow lower grille opening. Along the sides the beltline pushes up; the roof pillar behind the second-row seat is thicker than it has to be. From the rear, you’ll find stylish wraparound tail lamps with available dual exhaust finishers.

Base models come with 17-inch aluminum wheels; 18- and 19-inch wheel choices are also available. Automatic headlamps, heated power-adjustable side mirrors and a manual liftgate come standard. Optional features include LED lights, front fog lamps, a roof rack, a power sunroof and a power liftgate.

Interior Highlights

2018 Chevrolet EquinoxDespite its slightly smaller size, the Equinox’s cabin seems nearly as roomy as before. Four can sit in comfort, five in a pinch. Cloth seats are standard; leather seats are available on the Premier trim only.

The Chevy Equinox offers a clean and uncluttered layout with handsome flowing lines across the dashboard. Base models have more plastic than we like. The tested Premier trim covers most surfaces with leather, including door inlays. The standard cargo space measures nearly 30 cubic feet and slightly more than double that with the rear seat folded. Still, the available space is just average for this segment.

Standard equipment includes full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, air conditioning, front bucket seats and a split-folding rear seat. Upgrades include power front seats, heated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, and a cargo liner with a cargo cover.

Performance Matters

Choose your engines! Yes, you do get a choice of three engines with the 2018 Equinox, including the segment’s only diesel. Gone are the 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 3.6-liter V6 engines, replaced by turbocharged 1.5- and 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engines. A 1.6-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine rounds out the product line.

The base engine makes 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to either the front or all four wheels by means of a six-speed automatic transmission. The larger of two gas engines displaces at 2.0 liters and makes 252 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Chevrolet pairs this engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

If you want a turbo-diesel, then the 1.6-liter TDI four-cylinder is your option. This engine makes 137 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque, and comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Why does Chevrolet even offer a diesel in this segment? Apparently, they see sufficient demand, once met only by Volkswagen and now open for the taking as VW has exited the market.

2018 Chevy Equinox
The top-trim Premier supplies leather covering most surfaces.

Stellar fuel economy for the segment.

What’s important with how Chevrolet packaged this engine is that it costs less than the 2.0-liter (even though we list it as Engine No. 3). It also delivers an EPA-estimated 39 mpg compared with 32 mpg for the standard engine and 29 mpg for the larger gas engine. Allow those numbers to sink in for a moment.

My test Premier came with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine along with all-wheel drive. It replaces the naturally 3.6-liter V6 that had long paced this model, thus there is some drop off in power. Happily, its overall performance is nearly the same thanks to a smooth and quick shifting nine-speed automatic transmission and reduced overall weight.

That doesn’t mean you won’t notice the turbo lag — it is present and sometimes an annoyance. More annoying is the stop/start technology that automatically shuts down the engine with no override button available. I got to the point where I allowed the system to kick in while the SUV was stopped, but then released the brake just enough to cause the engine to restart. Sorry (not sorry), I just don’t like the interference.

The Equinox’s electric power steering is lightly weighted and handling is average at best. You’ll experience body roll as you make your turns, something the larger 19-inch wheels set within performance all-season tires should limit.

Unfortunately, we cannot comment on either the base engine or the new diesel. Word has it that the standard engine is up to the task. As for the diesel, we like that it produces nearly 40 mpg. We also like that it isn’t the most expensive engine available. We’ll be following the take rates closely on each engine.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox
There are three turbo engine choices with the Equinox including a diesel.

Safety & Technology

Most 2018 Equinoxes come with a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, a USB port and an auxiliary input jack. Satellite radio, a seven-inch color screen, OnStar 4G LTE and an OnStar guidance plan are also included.

Options and upgrades include a Wi-Fi hotspot, additional USB ports, a 115-volt power outlet and HD Radio. Also available is a seven-speaker audio system, navigation and a rear entertainment system.

Our experience with GM’s touch-screen system has generally been very positive. The app-like interface is easy to understand and directions are served accurately. That said, we prefer Apple CarPlay to supply directions, something Android Auto users may also find helpful.

On the safety front, all models have a rearview camera. Our main beef with Chevrolet’s safety packages is that they’re not available with the base trims. These features include lane change alert with side blind zone alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning and low speed forward automatic braking. Oddly, Chevrolet doesn’t offer adaptive cruise control. Each of these features are now standard or available on competing Toyota products.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox
An available power liftgate supplies access to a cargo compartment
with 30 cubic feet of storage space.

Parting Thoughts

Chevrolet’s best-selling model after its very popular Silverado is the Equinox. We’re not surprised as this category of SUVs is the strongest one out there. That said, you have to deliver a product customers want and once again Chevrolet largely succeeds.

Prices can climb fairly quickly, approaching $40,000 for fully loaded models. The good news is that if you really want a diesel it is available on the two top trims. We priced out a front-wheel drive LT model with the diesel for $31,695. We think at least 10 percent of Chevy Equinox shoppers will opt for one, as they enjoy the stellar fuel efficiency, simplified maintenance and longevity that such an engine affords.

All in all, the 2018 Chevy Equinox does what it has to do. With sales up nearly by one-third for the first three months of the year, customers apparently agree. Even edging out the Honda CR-V for third place is a big deal and suggests that the third-generation Equinox has what it takes to win.

chevrolet-equinox-1807

2018 Chevrolet Equinox Specifications

Chevrolet 2018 Equinox
Segment Compact Crossover SUV
Base Sticker Price $23,580 (plus $995 destination fee)
Price as tested $40,915 (Premier AWD)
Engine No. 1 1.5-liter, turbo inline-four
Horsepower 170 @ 5,600 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 203 @ 2,500 to 4,500 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Engine No. 2 2.0-liter, turbo inline-four
Horsepower 252 @ 5,500 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 260 @ 2,500 to 4,500 RPMs
Transmission Nine-speed automatic
Engine No. 3 1.6-liter, turbo-diesel
Horsepower 137 @ 3,750 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 240 @ 2,000 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,327 (1.5L FWD); 3,500 (2.0L AWD)
Wheelbase (inches) 107.3
Length (inches) 183.1
Width (inches) 72.6
Height (inches) 65.4
Head room (f,r — inches) 40.0, 38.5
Leg room (f,r — inches) 40.9, 39.7
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) N/A, N/A
Hip room (f,r — inches) N/A, N/A
Storage (cubic feet) 29.9, 63.5
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) 3,500 pounds (2.0L)
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 14.9; 15.6
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 26/32 (1.5L FWD); 22/29 (2.0L); 28/39 (TDI)
Manufacturing Plant Ingersoll, Ontario CANADA

See Also — Enhanced Performance: 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe RST

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 SUVs, all-wheel drive, Chevrolet, CHEVROLET EQUINOX, Chevy, compact SUV, turbo, turbo-diesel

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