2019 Toyota Avalon release date, specs news: More luxurious sedan unveiled

A promotional image for the 2019 Toyota Avalon.Toyota

Despite the growing popularity of crossovers and SUVs, Toyota continues to show its commitment to the traditional sedan segment with the introduction of the 2019 Avalon. The all-new full-size sedan receives an evolved design, larger dimensions and more technologies.

Similar to the 2018 Camry, the 2019 Avalon is built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. This allowed engineers to make the fifth-generation full-size sedan longer, wider and lower than its predecessor.

The use of a new adaptable core also translates to a bolder and more premium appearance. The 2019 Avalon's exterior features three-dimensional surfaces and deep character lines. Notable design elements include a modern grille, slim LED projector headlights, a chiseled profile, a rear spoiler and connected LED taillamps with backup, stop and turn signals integrated into one fluid design.

The 2019 Avalon is offered with a 3.5-liter V6 engine as well as a hybrid powertrain, which consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 650-volt electric motor. The former is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission while the latter comes equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Toyota has not yet released performance numbers. However, on the all-new Camry, the V6 engine delivers 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque while the hybrid powertrain yields 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.

Inside the cabin, the 2019 Avalon uses luxury materials such as leather for the surfaces, real wood for the trim and aluminum for the accents. Available technologies include the Entune 3.0 infotainment system with Wi-Fi hotspot as well as Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa support, a 14-speaker audio system, and a 7-inch instrument cluster display for navigation and vehicle settings.

Meanwhile, available safety features include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure alert and automatic high beams, among others.

The 2019 Avalon V6 is available four trims: XSE, Touring, XLE and Limited. Meanwhile, the hybrid variant comes in three trims: XLE, Limited and XSE

The 2019 Toyota Avalon is scheduled to go on sale in late spring. Pricing will be announced closer to the official launch date.