Traverse City Record-Eagle

Business

April 6, 2012

Toyota hopes Avalon will boost sales

By The Associated Press ----

Toyota hopes that a completely new Avalon will boost sales of the big sedan.

The 2013 model, due out late this year, hits the market at a tough time for large cars. U.S. large car sales fell 23 percent last year to 68,211, according to Autodata Corp. And Toyota sold just 28,925 Avalons.

The company, however, expects the 2013 version to sell better than its predecessor. It's got an updated look, a quieter ride and better handling.

The new Avalon was introduced Thursday at the New York International Auto Show.

Under The Hood

Toyota wouldn't say much about the engine other than it's a V-6. The company will release more details later this spring. Toyota said it improved the car's ride, handling and straight-line stability by using high-strength steel and additional welds.

Outside

The new car is much sleeker looking than the current one. Like many new models from other automakers, it slopes downward from back to front.

Inside

A big selling point is interior room, especially rear-seat legroom, which Toyota said is abundant. The car also has acoustic glass in the windshield and front side-windows to hold down wind noise.

Fuel Economy

Toyota wouldn't give numbers, but said they would be excellent. The current Avalon gets 19 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway.

Price

Toyota wouldn't give numbers. The current Avalon starts at $33,195.

CHEERS: The car looks far more modern and is sure to get better gas mileage. That's key. Sales of large cars have fallen as the price of gas approaches $4. Sales also are being eroded as small and midsize cars get features once reserved for large sedans. Potential big-car buyers also may choose crossovers, which combine traits of SUVs, station wagons and passenger cars. Those vehicles offer many seats and room to haul family gear

JEERS: The car looks similar to other models on the road today.

AP-WF-04-05-12 1818GMT

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