Flagship Sedan

First Look: 2019 Toyota Avalon

April 23, 2018 by admin 10 Comments

The fifth-generation Toyota Avalon steps up its game.

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 Avalon The 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

The Midsize Nissan Altima is Larger than the Flagship Maxima

July 20, 2015 by admin 10 Comments

When it comes to sedans, size matters. Especially for classification purposes. Some midsize sedans are larger than the flagship models that traditionally lead the brand.

Eight Key Facts About the 2016 Nissan Maxima

Nissan has a new flagship Maxima sedan, a 2016 edition that is stylish, sporty and competitively priced. Most people consider the Maxima Nissan’s largest model, but they would be wrong in that assessment, at least in one important area: total interior volume (cabin + trunk = total volume). Indeed, it is the Nissan Altima that offers superior room, even though the Maxima is recognized as the brand’s flagship sedan.

I recently had the Nissan Maxima in my press fleet rotation (that review has been published here), and immediately recognized that the cars are similar in size. Nissan markets the Altima in the midsize segment, a model that is only outsold by the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord and just ahead of the Ford Fusion in sales.

2015 Nissan Altima. — The slightly larger than the Maxima Nissan Altima.

Nissan released the latest generation Altima for the 2013 model year and I have had the pleasure of driving multiple copies over the past few years. The Altima is powered by four- and six-cylinder engines, while the Maxima only offers the larger V-6 engine, displacing at 3.5 liters. Furthermore, the engine has been updated for 2016 and now produces an even as well as impressive 300 horsepower.

The supplied chart outlines the differences between the Maxima and five other flagship sedans. All five are recognized as large sedans, but when it comes to EPA classification purposes, both the Maxima and the Avalon fall short. To qualify as a large car, a vehicle must have 120 cubic feet of total volume. The Avalon falls just short at 119.6 cubic feet, while the Nissan Maxima comes in at just 112.9 cubic feet.

Thus, the Nissan Maxima and Toyota Avalon are tabulated as midsize cars, while the Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Charger, Ford Taurus, and Hyundai Azera are typecast as large cars. Two other models were not considered here — the Buick LaCrosse and the Chrysler 300 as these models correspond to the Chevrolet and Dodge models featured here, respectively.

What is noteworthy about these measurements is that the Nissan Altima comes in closer to the large car classification with its 117.3 cubic feet of total volume or 4.4 cubic feet of extra room. Incidentally, both models sit on a 109.3-inch wheelbase although the Maxima has an extra 1.3 inches to its length.

So, how is it possible for the Altima to have more room than the Maxima given its slightly smaller dimensions? Those numbers are based on SAE measurements, a voluntary way of determining trunk (storage) space as well as interior (cabin) space. It is such a convoluted process that few people will pay attention to it. Kudos to Cars.com for attempting to explain it — in brief, the standards are based on SAE J1100 methodology, an archetype developed more than five decades ago.

2015 Dodge Charger — The Dodge Charger has the most room between the wheels of any flagship sedan.

As the chart indicates, the Nissan Maxima is dead last in proportions among the flagship models. To my knowledge, Nissan is not marketing the Maxima as its large car nor as its flagship sedan. Instead, they are emphasizing this model’s sporting characteristics and are marketing the Maxima as a luxury sedan. Indeed, when you take note of the 4DSC hashtag online, you are supposed to recall the Nissan Maxima and the related 4DSC embellishments on the transmission stick and lights. That hashtag stands for four-door sports car, a marketing initiative that Nissan has used with the Maxima previously.

I could have stirred the pot further by adding the midsize Hyundai Sonata to the list just above the Nissan Altima, but apart from the flagships. Had I done so, you would have seen that the EPA classifies the Sonata as a large car as it has 122.4 cubic feet of interior volume or nearly 10 cubic feet more than the flagship Maxima.

What it comes down to for car shoppers is a point I always tell them: go inside the vehicle yourself, try every seating position, explore the storage space and fold whatever seats go down. Ultimately, the numbers are rough guidelines and should be taken as such, just as the fuel mileage projections supplied by the manufacturers to the EPA may not reflect your real life experience.

2015 Hyundai Azera — The Hyundai Azera has more cabin room than other cars in its class.

Photos and chart copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Cadillac Unveils New Power Dense V-6 Engine

March 23, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

The 2016 Cadillac CT6 ushers in a new era for GM’s preeminent marque, a full-size sedan outfitted with leading-edge technologies. The new model debuts in New York at month’s end, a five-passenger vehicle set to take on Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The all-new 3.0L Twin Turbo for the 2016 Cadillac CT6 is the only six-cylinder engine to combine turbocharging with cylinder deactivation and stop/start technologies to conserve fuel.

In the chronology of Cadillac brand history, an 8.2-liter (500 cubic inch) V-8 engine once powered a handful of models, including Eldorado, Fleetwood and deVille. With an output of upwards of 400 horsepower, gargantuan engines once moved some of the largest cars ever built. Furthermore, this particular engine and others like it were built exclusively for the Cadillac brand.

In more recent times, Cadillac has been using engines built by parent GM for its other brands. Cadillac’s once heralded Northstar series were the last proprietary engines used by GM’s luxury brand, although select Buick, Oldsmobile and Pontiac models also used them. In 2010, Cadillac retired Northstar, ending a 17-year tenure and ushering in a new era of complete powertrain sharing with GM’s other brands.

Twin Turbo V-6 Engine

A new, proprietary engine for the Cadillac brand will debut in the fourth quarter of 2015 and power the Cadillac CT6, itself an all-new flagship sedan for the marque. Last week, Cadillac shared details about this 3.0-liter twin turbo V-6 engine, carrying an estimated rating of 400 horsepower and 400 foot-pounds of torque. At 133 horsepower per liter, the new engine will be one of the most power dense engines in the world. It will also come paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Cadillac says that the packed power plant is the only six-cylinder engine to combine cylinder deactivation and stop/start technologies with turbocharging. This coalescence of scientific componentry will conserve fuel — to what degree has not yet been made known.

“Cadillac’s elevation on the world stage is driven in great part by its advanced powertrain technology and the all-new 3.0L Twin Turbo powers past the traditional segment leaders with higher degrees of the performance and refinement their reputations were built on,” said Rich Bartlett, assistant chief engineer.

The Cadillac CT6 will make its world debut in New York on March 31 in advance of the 2015 New York International Auto Show. This writer plans to attend that show.

A Broad Power Curve

The small-block V-6 makes use of turbochargers with “with lightweight, low-inertia titanium-aluminide turbine wheels and an efficient, patented low-volume charge-air cooler, which contribute to optimal boost production and more immediate power delivery.” Peak torque will be sustained across a broad torque curve ranging from 2,500 rpm to 5,000 rpm, something Cadillac alleges will be delivered with “smoothness and progression.”

Cadillac is quick to point out that the new engine will outperform BMW’s 315-horsepower rated 3.0-liter V-6 as well as Audi’s 310-horsepower rated engine of the same displacement. These two German brands as well as the Mercedes-Benz marque are in Cadillac’s crosshairs, serving customers that GM desperately wants to poach.

Additional Engine Choices

The twin turbo V-6 will not be the only engine offered in the Cadillac CT6. A new version of GM’s 3.6-liter, naturally-aspirated V-6 will also be employed, delivering an estimated 335 horsepower and 284 foot-pounds of torque. It, too, will feature cylinder deactivation and stop/start technologies and will include various noise-reducing features, including an all-new cam drive system, an upgraded cooling system, a stronger and stiffer aluminum block, and new high-flow cylinder heads. The benchmark engine for these upgrades is the Infiniti 3.7-liter V-6.

Other engines available in the 2016 Cadillac CT6 will include the turbocharged 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder motor used in the Cadillac CTS. A V-8 engine is also planned and Cadillac has hinted that at least one other engine will follow. Auto Trends believes that the unidentified engine will be a turbocharged six-cylinder diesel, available for the European market initially, then to its North American customers.

Advancing the Cadillac Brand

The Cadillac CT6 represents a bold step forward for this iconic luxury brand as it seeks to recover its once lofty position amongst premium marques. Moreover, it introduces a new naming convention, one that will roll out gradually over the next few years. Specifically, that nomenclature will pair two letters with one number in sequential fashion based on a model’s size and importance to the Cadillac brand.

Photo courtesy of the General Motors Company.

Flagship Pricing: 2014 Acura RLX

January 17, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

The 2014 Acura RLX will make its debut on March 15, 2013, following an announcement Acura made at this years North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The new model is priced from $48,450 to $60,450, depending on the grade chosen. This five-passenger sedan is the new flagship of the Acura line, and it will be sold in front- and all-wheel-drive versions.

2014 Acura RLX

RLX Pricing

Instead of offering different trim levels, Acura will offer the RLX in various grades beginning with the standard model priced from $48,450. Pricing increases by $2,500 when a navigation package is added and increases by another $3,500 with a technology package, retailing for $54,450.

Choose the Krell Audio Package and your price bumps up by another $2,500 and tops out at $60,450 with the advance package. An all-wheel-drive model with a hybrid package debuts later in 2013.

Engine and Transmission

The 2014 Acura RLX is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that makes 310 horsepower and 272 foot-pounds of torque. This engine features variable cylinder management, effectively shutting down a bank of three cylinders when not needed. The cast aluminum engine is paired with a sequential six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel.

Fuel economy ratings are not final, but Acura estimates that the RLX will lead its class by delivering 20 mpg around the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

RLX Dimensions

With a 196.1-inch wheelbase, the 2014 Acura RLX comes in at two inches longer than the RL sedan it replaces. Acura says that the sedan, weighing in from 3,933 pounds, is two inches wider than the RL and offers more rear legroom than competing sedans from Acura, BMW and Lexus.

The RLX sits on 18-inch all-season radial tires. Seven-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels are standard. Customers can upgrade to 19-inch wheels and premium tires.

Cabin Amenities

Premium and soft touch materials are found throughout the cabin of the Acura RLX. Leather seating surfaces, a leather-stitched steering wheel, metal and woodgrain accents and ambient lighting are presented.

Choose the navigation package and this system offers voice recognition, local search and Acura-Link real-time traffic technology. Dual screen access from the center console features an 8-inch navigation screen and a 7-inch multi-use display.

The technology package upgrades the 10-speaker ESL audio system to 14 speakers and includes HD Radio, XM Radio, Pandora connectivity, a USB port and an auxiliary jack. Choose the Krell audio system package and the RLX is outfitted with a high-fidelity audio system. The Advance package includes every amenity mentioned for one price.

Showroom Debut

Weeks before the Acura RLX goes on sale, each Acura dealer will have two sedans on hand as part of a national Destination RLX promotional program. That event will take place February and give potential buyers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with Acura’s all-new flagship sedan.

The Acura RLX’s competitors include the BMW 5 Series, Lincoln MKS, Lexus GS 350, Cadillac XTS and the Audi A6. Consider the Acura MDX if additional utility is needed.

See Also — The Highly Unlikely Acura Minivan