It wasn’t too long ago that Toyota revealed that the Avalon would not live beyond the 2022 model year. We recently had one final chance to check out the recently axed TRD model and the Japanese auto giant has now confirmed that not only an additional trim level will go away, but that the final run of Avalons will also be the latest recipient of the Nightshade appearance package.
XSE Hybrid Embraces The Night
Like other Nightshade-equipped Toyotas, the dark motif for the Avalon is purely a styling package that aims to bring the Avalon into the dark side. The Avalon Nightshade Edition originally appeared in 2021, but back then, it was only available on non-hybrid equipped XSE models. This time around the sinister variant will only be available in XSE Hybrid guise. Like other Nightshade models, this version of the Avalon pitches alot of its chrome work for darkened pieces including the mirror caps, badges, exterior door handles, and even the 19-inch trim exclusive wheels.
While Nightshades are usually adorned in black paint, buyers looking for more color variety can opt for Wind Chill Pearl, and Celestial Silver Metallic but all three colors come with black upholstery. A moonroof is also standard and Nightshade buyers also get a premium eight-speaker audio system and a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Less Is More For Final Avalon Run
With the TRD version gone, the trim ladder is now down to six for 2022 with the base model starting at $37,400 (including the $1,025 destination fee.) The other five trims (XLE, XLE Hybrid, XSE Nightshade Hybrid, Limited, Touring, and Limited Hybrid with those models starting at $38,375, $41,725, $43,700, $44,100, and $44,675. Look for the first examples to begin rolling to Toyota dealerships in the first half of 2022.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.