The 2013 Toyota Avalon marked a significant step forward for the premium mid-size sedan, introducing a blend of powerful performance and impressive fuel efficiency. For the model year, Toyota presented consumers with a choice between a robust V6 gasoline engine and their advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive system, catering to a broader range of preferences and needs. This all-new Avalon, designed and engineered in North America, aimed to redefine the segment with its stunning aesthetics, enhanced driving dynamics, and a luxurious, technology-rich interior.
Potent and Efficient V6 Engine
For those prioritizing power and responsiveness, the 2013 Toyota Avalon offered a proven 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine. This engine, coupled with a refined six-speed automatic transaxle, was engineered to deliver both exhilarating performance and improved efficiency compared to previous models. Producing 268 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of torque, this all-aluminum six-cylinder powerplant enabled the new Avalon to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under seven seconds, providing ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. Toyota focused on enhancing the powertrain for improved fuel economy, a more responsive shift feel, and overall drivability while maintaining a quiet and comfortable cabin environment.
The V6 powertrain in the 2013 Toyota Avalon incorporated selectable driving modes – ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT – allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their preferences and driving conditions. ECO mode optimized fuel consumption by adjusting power delivery at lower speeds and reducing the load on the air conditioning system. SPORT mode, on the other hand, sharpened acceleration responses through revised engine control unit programming and provided a more direct feel through the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, enhancing the driving experience.
Further contributing to fuel efficiency, the updated six-speed automatic transaxle featured a numerically lower differential gear ratio (3.23). This design choice helped the V6-powered 2013 Toyota Avalon achieve an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (21 city/31 highway). The transmission’s operation was also refined with a flex-start control feature lock-up clutch, allowing the torque converter to fully engage at lower RPMs from a standstill. This resulted in improved acceleration response and reduced unnecessary engine revolutions, further enhancing both performance and efficiency. An automatic transmission fluid warmer was also incorporated to maintain optimal transmission temperature, contributing to overall efficiency.
Drivers seeking a more engaging experience could utilize the multi-mode automatic transmission console shifter, offering a D range and an S-mode gate. The S-mode allowed for manual sequential shifting via the console shifter or steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters (available on Touring and Limited models). This provided highly responsive gear changes, utilizing a quick-responding shift-logic with throttle blipping for downshifts, displayed on the color multi-information display.
Avalon Embraces Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive
Recognizing the growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles without compromising on size and luxury, Toyota introduced the Avalon Hybrid for the 2013 Toyota Avalon model year. This marked the first full-hybrid in the premium mid-size segment, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. The Avalon Hybrid incorporated Toyota’s renowned Hybrid Synergy Drive system, leveraging over 14 years of hybrid technology development. Through weight reduction and aerodynamic improvements, the Avalon Hybrid aimed to deliver exceptional fuel economy ratings.
The heart of the 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid was a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine, working in conjunction with a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack and two electric motor/generators within the transaxle. A power control unit, located in the engine compartment, managed the seamless operation of the hybrid system, including the inverter, DC-DC converter, step-up converter, and the hybrid-drive ECU. This sophisticated system delivered a total system output of 200 horsepower and offered three distinct driving modes: EV, ECO, and SPORT, providing versatility for various driving situations.
The 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid excelled in fuel economy, achieving an EPA-rated 40 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 40 mpg combined. The EV mode allowed for short-distance, all-electric driving up to one mile at speeds below 25 mph under specific conditions, ideal for low-speed environments like residential areas or parking garages. ECO mode prioritized fuel efficiency by moderating throttle response and HVAC output, while SPORT mode maximized the Avalon’s dynamic capabilities by enhancing throttle response and steering feel, similar to the V6 model.
The hybrid battery pack, composed of 204 cells, was strategically located in the trunk behind the rear seats. Despite its placement, it was designed to maintain ample trunk space for passenger convenience. The battery cooling system blower fan was engineered with a scroll casing to minimize noise and ensure efficient airflow, contributing to the vehicle’s overall refinement. The hybrid transaxle housed two high-output electric motor/generators (MG1 and MG2), a power-split device, an open differential, and the final drive ratio. MG1 primarily started the gasoline engine and generated energy for the battery, while MG2 was mainly responsible for electric propulsion and regenerative braking. A flywheel-damper in the transaxle further reduced noise and vibration during engine engagement.
Captivating Design and Luxurious Interior
The 2013 Toyota Avalon represented a North American design and engineering endeavor, with its striking exterior and luxurious interior conceived by a talented team at Calty Design Research Inc. in Southern California and Michigan. Engineering development was led by the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and assembly took place at the award-winning Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) facility in Georgetown, Kentucky.
Aligning with Toyota President Akio Toyoda’s vision for more compelling and passionate vehicles, the 2013 Toyota Avalon showcased a bolder, sportier exterior design and a more luxurious interior. This new generation Avalon aimed to deliver not just style and comfort, but also an enhanced dynamic driving experience, setting the stage for future Toyota models.
Powertrain Specifications
| Avalon V6 | Avalon Hybrid | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline Engine | Type/Displacement | 2GR-FE / 3.5L | 2AR-FXE / 2.5L |
| Max Horsepower | 268 hp | 154 hp | |
| Max Torque | 248 lbs.-ft. | 153 lbs.-ft. | |
| Transaxle | Type | 6-speed AT | E-CVT |
| Electric Motor | Max Output | – | 140 hp |
| Max Torque | – | 200 ft. lbs. | |
| Battery | Type | – | Nickel-Metal Hydride |
| Nominal Voltage | – | 245 volts | |
| Number of Cells | – | 204 Cells | |
| Max Output | – | 34 kw or 45.6 hp | |
| Total System Output | – | 149 kw 200hp |
Key Dimensional Comparison
| 2013 Avalon | 2012 Avalon | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 195.3 in. | 197.6 in. |
| Overall Width | 72.2 in. | 72.8 in. |
| Overall Height | 57.5 in. | 58.5 in. |
| Wheelbase | 111 in. | 111 in. |
| Front Tread | 62.6 in. | 62.2 in. |
| Rear Tread | 62.2 in. | 61.6 in. |
| Front Overhang | 38.8 in. | 39.4 in. |
| Rear Overhang | 45.5 in. | 47.2 in. |
| Curb Weight | 3,497 lbs. (V6), 3594 lbs. (Hybrid XLE) | 3,616 lbs. |
In conclusion, the 2013 Toyota Avalon successfully combined premium features, enhanced performance with its V6 engine, and exceptional fuel economy with its hybrid variant. This model year marked a significant evolution for the Avalon, appealing to a wider audience seeking a sophisticated and efficient mid-size sedan.
