Toyota Avalon’s Stunning Makeover: Sleek Front, Hybrid Power, and Lexus-Like Luxury

The Toyota luxury sedan Avalon
The Crown has overshadowed it
Now, making a comeback in a new form?

In Toyota’s current luxury sedan lineup, the Crown reigns supreme. The company offers various models, including crossovers, that diverge from the typical luxury sedan route seen in markets where competitors like the Hyundai Grandeur and Kia K8 dominate the segment. However, Toyota once had a pure semi-large luxury sedan in the mix: the Avalon.

The Avalon, known for its luxurious, stately design and high fuel efficiency, may not have set performance records, but it enjoyed moderate success. Now, rumors of a potential comeback are emerging, fueled by a new virtual rendering that recently surfaced online, capturing attention and reigniting interest in the nameplate.

Sleek New Front End Inspired by Lexus

The virtual rendering of the new Avalon, created by PoloTo, a designer known for crafting detailed renderings, gives the sedan a refreshed, sophisticated look. The front grille has been enlarged compared to the previous Avalon, contributing to a more commanding presence. The sleek design, reminiscent of Lexus, signals a shift toward a more dynamic and luxurious aesthetic.

The lower bumper features chrome accents to enhance the premium feel, while the headlights have been updated from the traditional horizontal design to sharp LED shapes, evoking a sense of motion and modernity. The hood has also been reworked, with contour lines framing the Toyota emblem, adding a more sculpted appearance to the front end.

Minimalistic Rear Design Falls Short

While the front end has been stylishly reimagined, the rendered Avalon’s rear design feels slightly underwhelming. The minimalist tail lamp design offers a clean and simple look, but the lack of chrome or other standout elements leaves the rear feeling somewhat plain compared to the more dynamic front. The contrast between the two ends of the car could be seen as a missed opportunity for a more cohesive design.

As with many virtual renderings, the creator’s vision also includes changes under the hood. According to the rendering, the Avalon could swap its existing 3.5-liter V6 engine for a hybrid powertrain similar to those in the 2025 Toyota Camry and 2025 Crown. This shift would align with Toyota’s broader strategy toward electrification and eco-friendly options, a necessity in today’s market.

Avalon’s Ongoing Popularity in China

The Avalon enjoyed popularity in the North American market, a region traditionally known for its trust in Japanese vehicles. However, its position became increasingly squeezed between the premium Lexus ES and the more affordable Camry. Ultimately, the shift in consumer preferences toward SUVs and eco-friendly vehicles led to its discontinuation in North America.

Currently, the Avalon remains available only in the Chinese market, where demand for sedans continues to thrive. Unlike other regions where sedan sales have declined, the Avalon remains a top seller in China, with monthly sales nearing 10,000 units. Production is expected to continue as the model enjoys ongoing success in that market.