The Toyota Avalon sedan available in North America has received a few updates heading into 2021 – so few, in fact, that you probably wouldn’t call it a mid-life refresh. The one big change arrives in the form of a four-wheel drive.
Like the AWD Camry, the Avalon inherits its AWD configuration with multi-plate clutch and rear differential gear from the latest RAV4. It comes powered by a 2.5-liter non-turbo engine rated at 208 hp (154 kW), which links to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Only XLE and Limited trims get AWD as a paid option, and the manufacturer hopes that around 20 percent of the customers will choose to pay for it.
The other novelty of note is the Avalon Nightshade Edition, which uses the XSE trim level as the starting point and improves upon it by blacking out the grille, mirrors, rear spoiler, 19-inch wheels, window bezels and roof antenna. Cars come in three finishes to choose from: Celestial Silver Metallic, Midnight Black Metallic and Wind Chill Pearlescent White.
The standard Avalon sedan also gains a few new colors, while the Avalon Hybrid trades its NiMH battery for a lithium-ion one. Both now support Android Auto and feature USB-C instead of the outdated USB-A.
Sales in the United States being in the coming September.