First-Ever Toyota Avalon XSE Hybrid Nightshade Edition Highlights Changes For 2022

The 2022 Avalon is Toyota’s take on full size refinement and style. With striking, coupe-inspired design, a spacious, luxury interior and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (TSS-2.5+) standard on all grades, the 2022 Avalon offers drivers the comfort, quality and safety they expect from a premium sedan.

This year, the XSE Hybrid Nightshade Edition joins the Avalon family. For 2022, Avalon features six configurations across its Hybrid and V6 powertrains. Configurations include XLE, Limited, Touring, XLE Hybrid, XSE Hybrid Nightshade and Limited Hybrid. With a choice of a silken yet spirited 301-horsepower V6 or a hybrid electric powertrain that achieves an EPA estimated 44 miles per gallon (XLE Hybrid grade), drivers can choose the powertrain that fits their needs.

Since the model was launched in 1994, the Toyota Avalon has brought a balance of luxury and safety. For 2022, the entire Avalon lineup moves to TSS 2.5+, which adds Road Sign Assist and Lane Tracing Assist to the active safety system. The Limited, Limited Hybrid and Touring models offer an Advanced Safety Package that includes Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan and Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking.

Toyota’s Rear Seat Reminder is now standard on all 2022 Avalons. The feature notes whether a rear door was opened within 10 minutes of the vehicle being turned on, or at any time after the vehicle has been turned on, with a reminder message in the instrument cluster after the engine is turned off, accompanied by multitone chimes.

The 2022 Avalon is on sale now at Toyota dealerships nationwide. Manufacturer’s suggested retail pricing starts at $36,375 (XLE grade), excluding Delivery, Processing and Handling (DPH).

Grading A Custom Look

For the Avalon’s fifth generation design, Toyota steered its flagship sedan down an emotional road, with taut lines and a sleek, coupe-like silhouette made possible by the low-slung TNGA platform architecture.

Differences among the Avalon grades are clear. A dark gray front grille with chrome border identifies the XLE and Limited versions. Both also feature machined-silver-colored LED headlight bezels, and body-color rearview mirror housings. Exclusive-design wheels range in diameter from 17 to 19 inches, plus chrome badges and dual exhaust tips.

The XSE Hybrid Nightshade and Touring show a sportier character with a piano-black mesh grille, machine-finish and gloss-black wheels, as well as black outer mirror housings, headlight bezels, trunk lid spoiler and exterior badging. A grade-specific lower diffuser is set above and between quad tailpipes.

Compelling colors bring out the design’s natural yet sophisticated drama.

Exterior color choices for 2022 include Supersonic Red, Opulent Amber, Midnight Black Metallic, Wind Chill Pearl, Ruby Flare Pearl, Harbor Gray Metallic, Ice Edge and Celestial Silver Metallic. Interior colors include Graphite, Cognac or Black Perforated Premium Leather on the Limited grade, Black, Harvest Beige or Graphite SofTex on the XLE and Black or Cognac Perforated SofTex and Ultrasuede on the Touring grade.

Avalon drivers seeking a more extroverted look will find it in the new-for-2022 XSE Hybrid Nightshade Edition. The aggressive look of the Nightshade’s black grille combines with blacked-out mirror caps, rear spoiler and name badges, black-painted 19-inch alloy wheels, black window trim and door handles and a black shark fin antenna. The Avalon XSE Hybrid Nightshade is available in Midnight Black Metallic, Wind Chill Pearl or Celestial Silver Metallic exterior colors. Black Perforated SofTex and Ultrasuede complete the mood of the interior.

Rewarding the Eyes, Cheating the Wind

As sleek and slippery as the Avalon looks, the design is also highly functional. For example, the lateral vents at the front, the rear spoiler and the substantial underbody panel coverage help to optimize aerodynamic efficiency and give Avalon a wind-cheating 0.27 coefficient of drag. That translates into higher fuel efficiency and lower wind noise. Connected, three-dimensional “aero fin” style LED taillamps emphasize the vehicle’s width and “planted” stance.

Cockpit and Cocoon

Since its introduction a quarter-century ago, Avalon has specialized in providing outstanding outward visibility and interior roominess, and the new-generation design does not sacrifice those qualities. Thin pillars and the broad windshield create the wide, open feeling for passengers in the front and back. Rear seat roominess, long an Avalon hallmark, is illustrated by generous shoulder room (57.1 in.), leg room (40.3 in. for V-6; 40.4 in. for Hybrid) and head room (37.5 in. for V-6; 37.1 in. for Hybrid).

Elegance emerges from simple and purposeful placement of amenities and controls, along with authentic materials including Yamaha-sourced wood trim, plus aluminum pieces for the arm rests accents, center console and instrument panel. Soft-touch materials abound, along with Piano Black and Satin Chrome-finish trim elements. Rear passengers are provided with air vents, available seat heaters and USB charging ports.

Cabin trim choices reflect each model grade’s persona. The XLE features engineered wood trim, while Limited has genuine Yamaha wood trim. Aluminum trim adorns the Touring grade’s cabin. A combination of luxurious perforated SofTex and Ultrasuede appoints the Touring grade’s seating; the XLE’s SofTex -trimmed seats feature artistic vertical stitching, and Limited adds a special perforation and two-color stitches – both unique to Toyota – plus a distinctive quilt pattern to its premium leather seats.

Power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade comes standard on Limited and Limited Hybrid, XSE Hybrid Nightshade and Touring – available as Moonroof Package option on XLE and XLE Hybrid.

High Tech, Low Learning Curve

The Avalon integrates advanced tech with elegantly crafted luxury. A slim center stack houses the 9-inch Toyota Audio system, displaying audio and navigation while also integrating the automatic climate control system. Satin chrome-finish trim surrounds the center cluster panel that “floats” above the instrument panel.

Below the panel, passengers have easy access to the slide-open eBin containing a 12-volt plug and wireless Qi mobile device charger (Qi available as part of Moonroof Package on XLE grades and standard on all other grades). Two versatile USB-C power ports offer up-to-date connection points in the front and rear console box. Supple padding lines both sides of the console’s lower tunnel at knee height for additional comfort and bracing.

Avalon’s three-spoke steering wheel features smooth, satin chrome-finish accents and conveniently placed multifunction controls. The wheel can be wrapped in a two-tone leather-surface when outfitted in Cognac or Graphite interior colors.

In the driver’s line of sight, a 7-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) shows vehicle information, turn-by-turn navigation and various vehicle settings. These include TSS-2.5+ functions and available Intelligent Clearance Sonar, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Head-Up Display.

Avalon Hybrid grades feature the same central 7-inch screen, but to its left is a Hybrid System Indicator showing the vehicle’s regeneration status in real time.

Limited and Touring’s standard color 10-inch Head-Up Display (HUD), the largest in the segment, projects critical information such as vehicle and engine speed, turn-by-turn directions, audio settings and current drive mode onto the lower portion of the windshield.

Start Your Engine – with a Smartwatch

Avalon XLE, XLE Hybrid and XSE Hybrid Nightshade grades come with a standard Toyota Audio Plus eight-speaker system with Connected Navigation App and App Suite, featuring new in-vehicle third-party applications. The system’s nine-inch capacitive touchscreen operates using smartphone-like pinch and flick gestures and features SiriusXM® with 3-month All Access trial.

Android Auto®, Apple CarPlay® and Amazon Alexa® are standard on all grades. Toyota Premium Audio with JBL, standard in Limited and Touring and optional for others, features a sonically stunning 1,200-watt, 14-speaker sound system, the most speakers in the segment. Both systems can be equipped with embedded Dynamic Navigation.

Connected Services include Safety Connect with a 1-year trial period, Service Connect with a 10-year trial period and Remote Connect with a 1-year trial. Wi-Fi Connect Powered by Verizon trial with up to 2GB within three months is subscription-free.

Avalon also features Toyota’s integration of smartwatch or Amazon Alexa-enabled device connectivity, as part of Toyota Remote Connect. The latter allows drivers to lock and unlock the car’s doors, start the engine or check fuel level, all from the convenience of an Apple Watch, compatible smartwatch or Amazon Alexa-enabled device. It is voice controllable and compatible with select Android or Apple devices.

Premium Power, Exemplary Efficiency

The front-wheel drive Avalon’s 24-valve, DOHC 3.5-liter V-6 engine features Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system, which combines direct injection with supplemental port fuel injectors. In addition, the engine uses a VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) system for the intake, with VVT-i on the exhaust. The VVT-iW system can switch the engine to the Atkinson cycle, which reduces pumping losses by delayed closing of the intake valves, helping to reduce fuel consumption.

Output for the V-6 is 301 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 267 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 rpm. Thanks to Toyota’s innovative engine tech, the powerful V-6 Avalon models return exemplary fuel efficiency: manufacturer projected EPA-estimated range rating of 22 city/32 highway/26 combined MPG for the XLE grade, and 22/31/25 for all other grades.

The XLE and Limited grades have a three-level drive mode selection (ECO, NORMAL, SPORT), while Touring grades feature four-level drive mode selection, including ECO, NORMAL, SPORT/ SPORT+ and CUSTOM.

With SPORT+ mode activated, occupants hear a concert of exciting, natural sounds conveyed through an exhaust system with sport-modified baffles, an Intake Sound Generator (ISG), Active Noise Control (ANC) and Engine Sound Enhancement (ESE). All can be switched off to enjoy the serenity of Avalon’s serene interior.

That quietness is assured by the TNGA-K platform’s expansive use of sound insulation, which includes additional seals where the front fenders meet the front doors and where the doors merge at the B-pillars. More sound absorption material is found in the engine bay, within the carpet pad, under the floor and in the wheel well liners. The shape of the exterior rearview mirrors not only reduces aerodynamic drag, but also wind noise.

Eight Gears, Smooth Shifting

Avalon V-6 models are equipped with the Direct Shift eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers satisfyingly smooth, quick-shifting for a remarkable blend of performance and refinement. The close mid-range ratios improve passing performance, while the wide range of torque converter lock-up yields a more direct driving feel and contributes to fuel efficiency. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are standard on the Touring grade. When downshifting, the transmission automatically “rev-matches” for smoother shifts.

Avalon Hybrid: The Most Fuel-Efficient Avalon Ever

The 2021 Avalon Hybrid manufacturer-projected EPA-estimated fuel economy range rating is expected to be the envy of a subcompact car: 43 city/44 highway/44 MPG combined for XLE Hybrid (43/43/43 MPG for other Hybrid grades). The advanced Toyota Hybrid System (THS II) combines the output of a specially engineered version of the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine and an electric motor (MG1). That motor and a second motor (MG2) charge the hybrid battery pack.

The Avalon Hybrid’s super-smooth inline four has a compression ratio of 14:1 and employs a variable cooling system, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and a full variable oil pump. Total hybrid system output is 215 hp. On the XSE Hybrid Nightshade, Sequential Shiftmatic technology allows the driver to “shift” the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). It mimics a quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission via paddle shifters or with the console-mounted shift lever.

The TNGA-K platform’s packaging allows the Lithium-ion battery pack to be installed beneath the rear seat for no sacrifice in trunk capacity over the gas Avalon models.

The Avalon Hybrid models feature NORMAL, ECO, EV and SPORT drive system modes. SPORT mode livens the Hybrid’s performance feel by combining quicker acceleration response. While ECO mode maximizes efficiency with more conservative throttle tuning and transmission shift points.

Finally, for hyper-milers seeking the highest fuel efficiency, Avalon Hybrid includes the clever Auto Glide Control (AGC) system, which essentially gives the car a coasting feature. When activated, AGC limits the loss of vehicle speed through engine braking, acting more like a neutral gear to allow longer coasting. An AGC indicator light illuminates on the multi-information display to alert the driver of reduced engine braking.

Smooth Rider, Sharp Handler

The Avalon’s multi-link rear suspension is key to its positive performance attributes, such as a wider rear track, lower center of gravity and an assertive stance. The Touring grade features sport-tuned suspension, while the Touring also adds exclusive Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), an electronically controlled damping system usually seen on luxury models.

AVS helps to increase controllability and handling agility without sacrificing one for the other. The setup reduces Avalon’s posture fluctuations under hard or sudden directional changes, limits body movements, and yet absorbs road undulations for a comfortable, flat ride.

Levels of AVS damping force are continuously variable through a range of up to 650 steps. Changes in solenoid force on each shock absorber that restrict fluid flow and, thus, damping, occur in an incredible 20 milliseconds. The driver can adjust Avalon’s ride feel with the push of a button: NORMAL mode prioritizes comfort, while SPORT+ emphasizes tauter handling without diminishing ride suppleness. SPORT+ also amplifies Avalon’s driving spirit by quickening throttle response, increasing feedback in the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and enhancing engine sound in the cabin.

Standard Toyota Safety System 2.5+

All Avalon models come standard with the TSS-2.5+ suite of active safety systems that include:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Automatic High Beams
Road Sign Assist
Lane Tracing Assist

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Rear Cross Traffic Braking are also standard across all grades.

In addition to the standard backup camera, Avalon Limited, Limited Hybrid and Touring offers the available Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan. The system uses front-, side- and rear-mounted cameras to display a composite view as seen from above.

All 2022 Avalon models are equipped with 10 standard airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System and Smart Stop Technology; anti-theft system with alarm and engine immobilizer are also standard.

Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. On the Avalon Hybrid grades, all HV components are covered under the Hybrid System Warranty for 8 years/100,000 miles. Additionally, the hybrid battery warranty is 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first. The Avalon also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.

2022 Avalon Pricing

No matter the grade, the Avalon brings drivers the balance of luxury, performance and safety they expect from a premium sedan. Now in its final year of production, customers can choose between three hybrid and three V-6 models. MSRP as follows, prices subject to change.