The latest in 2013 hybrids is the all-new Toyota Avalon, a large and luxurious mid-sized sedan sold exclusively in North America. If you’re looking for a new car–or might be tempted by the option–this is one to take notice of.
The 2013 Avalon sets a new high for fuel efficiency, with a combined rating of 40 miles per gallon. Both city and highway 
drivers will appreciate the consistency in numbers: 40mpg for city driving, and 39 mpg for highway driving. Forty miles per gallon is 1 mile per gallon higher than the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, it’s new competition, and much higher than the other comparable car in its class, the Buick LaCrosse, which is 29 miles per gallon.
But that isn’t what only stands out on the new Avalon. This model uses a 154-horsepower, 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that runs the Atkinson cycle, a more efficient system. It also is home to a 244.8 volt nickel metal hydride battery pack, and a pair of electric motor/generators within the transaxle. There is a power-control unit that is located in the engine, a DCDC converter, and a step up converter, which can raise the voltage to 650 volts. It also has the hybrid-drive ECU, so the operation of the electric motor is done with ease. It is combined with the latest generation of Toyota’s exclusive Hybrid Synergy Drive system. That basically gives consumers a high quality hybrid-electric power unit which contains two motor-generators. These motor-generators can add additional torque to complement the engine output, as well as power the car up to speeds of 25 miles per hour for up to 1 mile. Not only that, it can easily recharge from the battery pack using regenerative braking.
The total powertrain for the new model is an output of 200 horsepower. There are three different modes for the driver to choose from, as well. These include EV, Eco, Sport, and standard. The EV mode lets the driver choose the option to operate the vehicle only through electric manners, and gives for a very quiet ride. Think of residential areas, parking garages, and sneaking home late at night.
The Eco is a step above this, using better fuel efficiency by reducing the performance, heating, and ventilation. It does engage the motor for this one, but because of the reduction in these areas, efficiency is maintained.
Sport, however, does the opposite of this. It allows for quick acceleration and natural steering response — both take a little more stress on the eco-level of the car. However, there is a lot to the new Avalon past its hybridity, and sometimes you just want to take advantage of the other perks, too.
The new design is a quiet model, more so than any of its other vehicles. This is thanks to a new design specifically built in: a better quality fan blows continual cool air over the battery back, increasing efficiency.
Overall, the new 2013 Toyota Avalon Hybrid combines beauty with eco-efficiency, with the typical quality design that we know from Toyota. While the outside of the car is slick with a side of sedan, the inside is pure luxury in a mid-sized car. It is a little more compact than the 2012 version, and offers a lot more bang for its buck.
For more information and details, visit toyota.com For discount auto parts and accessories.