As we predicted in an earlier post, the new “U.S.-designed sedan” Toyota teased us with is the new 2013 Toyota Avalon, which was introduced today at the 2012 New York International Auto Show

The new Avalon is almost an American car. It was styled by the talented folks at Toyota’s Calty Design Research facilities in Southern California and Michigan. Engineering development was spearheaded by the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan and the car will be built at the Toyota plant in Georgetown, Kentucky.

The company says that, true to the direction set out by Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota Motor Corporation, the Avalon’s look is a sample of the future design language that will be seen in future Toyota vehicles.

The new Avalon’s exterior styling flows well, with a lowered beltline and reduced overhangs front and rear. Flared front fenders and reduced body-to-tire gap frame new 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheel and tire combinations fill the wheel well to enhance the vehicle’s dynamic exterior expression.

Underneath the new, sleeker skin, the Avalon has received structural and chassis improvements to enhance ride quality, straight-line stability and handling. Additional strategically placed welds, improved body bracing, and high-strength steel in key areas create a stiffer chassis and improve suspension performance.

The new Avalon offers owner three drive modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport. Eco changes throttle response and A/C power usage to help improve fuel economy. Sport mode enhances throttle response and steering effort is weighted from center. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters offer a more sporting drive while in the D or S Mode.

The 2013 Avalon offers an upgraded interior, as well. The front seat’s hip point has been lowered slightly to create more headroom and there’s additional side bolstering for better support. Structural components of the sunroof and the headliner design have been optimized and a concave dash panel design create a feeling of roominess. Even with the reduced overhang, the Avalon’s trunk is now 1.6 cubic feet larger than before.