by Cathy Droz, Founder – HER Certified
Is it a City or a Car?
The name Avalon was not familiar to me until I moved to the West coast and had a chance to visit beautiful Catalina Island. As you arrive into Avalon Harbor, via high-speed passenger boat, you are immediately impressed with the picturesque setting including lush trees and endless mountains. I wanted to know more about Avalon, both the city and Toyota Avalon the car.
Five Interesting facts about Avalon the city:
1. It is the only incorporated city on Santa Catalina Island of the California Channel Islands, and the southernmost city in Los Angeles County.
2. Avalon was first settled in pre-modern times by members of the Gabrielino/Tongva tribe. From the late 19th century to the early 20th, several different developers tried to grow Avalon into a resort destination community, but most went bankrupt.
3. In 1919, William Wrigley Jr. (of chewing gum fame and fortune) gained control of Avalon. Wrigley oversaw must of the development of Avalon including the landmark of the Casino. Wrigley is buried on the island. I know because I went to see his grave.
4. The main method of transportation within the city is by small gasoline or electric powered motorcars referred to as “autoettes”. It is very hard for a citizen of Avalon to get a permit for a full size car. (I guess Toyota didn’t name their vehicle after this City)
5. Extending out into the center of the harbor is the green Pleasure Pier. At the north end of the harbor is the Catalina Casino. The very distinct style is described as a cross between Art Deco and Mediterranean Revival, the Casino serves as Avalon’s most distinctive landmark.
Five interesting facts about Avalon the 2016 Toyota sedan:
1. Similar to the city of Avalon, the 2016 Toyota Avalon 4-Door Touring is picturesque and one of a kind. With its redesigned exterior, the Avalon impresses with a bold, new front grille, 18-inch dark gray painted alloy wheels and dual-wing LED running lamps. These standout features make it similar to the southernmost city in LA County.
2. The interior of the Toyota Avalon achieves the high-end resort look that was long strived for in the city of Avalon. Leather can be found wrapped around the steering wheel, paddle shifters and seats. The power tilt/slide moonroof and Eutune Premium Audio system with navigation and 7-inch touchscreen and 9 speakers offer luxuries that the city struggled to provide in the beginning.
3. Just like Wrigley developed the majority of the city, Toyota manufactured a high-performing sedan with a 3.5L 268 HP V8 DOHC 24V engine. Along with the power-assisted front/solid rear disc brakes, the 2016 Toyota Avalon could easily take on the windy roads of the city with its same name. You also can chew gum and enjoy the sights at the same time.
4. It is a shame that the city of Avalon does not permit full-size sedans – they are missing out on the Toyota Avalon, which gets an average of 24 mpg. It is also made available as a hybrid in the XLE Plus, XLE Premium and Limited forms. Not to mention all of the acronyms available with the Star Safety System: VSC, TRAC, ABS, EBD, and BA. This would be a safe ride on the Island.
5. Both the city of Avalon and the Toyota Avalon are distinct in many ways. The color alone makes this Avalon unique – OOH LA LA ROGUE MICA. On top of that, the $37,050.00-priced Avalon stands out with its chrome touches and sleek look.
No matter which Avalon you choose, you will be in for a great experience. I guess that is why Toyota’s tagline is “let’s go places”.
For more information on the Toyota Avalon go to www.toyota.com.
Starting at $32,650 – Model tested $37,050
Estimated 21/31 MPG
