Overview & Reviews

Since its launch in the mid-1990s, the Avalon has been Toyota's main full-size sedan. It has always been a solid performer, with standard V6 power, lots of interior space and a reputation for reliability.

Early Avalons were often criticized for their humdrum style, especially the first-generation model. But the more recent Avalons, thanks to their more upscale design, have consistently been among the best choices available for a large sedan. Overall, a new or used Avalon is certainly worth considering.

Current Toyota Avalon
Four trims comprise the Avalon lineup: XLE, XLE Premium, XLE Touring and Limited. For each, you'll find a smooth 3.5-liter V6 with 268 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. Together, they provide strong performance along with impressive fuel economy.

Standard feature highlights of the XLE include leather upholstery, power and heated front seats, keyless ignition and entry, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker audio system. The XLE Premium adds a sunroof and a few other minor perks, while the Touring gains 18-inch wheels (versus 17s), a navigation system and a smartphone app integration system. The Limited's features include xenon headlights, upgraded leather upholstery, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats and an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the Avalon's upscale cabin quality, roomy seating and large trunk. There's plenty of power on tap and the precise steering has a firm, responsive feel to it. Whether threading its way through a tight mountain pass or cruising serenely on the open freeway, this accommodating full-size sedan provides a very appealing blend of comfort and useful performance. The only possible downside is that the car's ride quality isn't quite as plush as before, which could alienate previous Avalon buyers. But overall, this Avalon's superior road manners will likely appeal to the vast majority of large sedan shoppers.

Used Toyota Avalon Models
Redesigned for 2013, the latest generation of the Toyota Avalon has a more premium look and feel than the previous one. Under the sleek new skin is a stiffer structure that improves both ride and handling qualities. Since its debut, this version has seen only a minor shuffling of standard and optional features.

Developed and built with American roads in mind, the previous, third-generation Toyota Avalon ran from 2005-'12. Initially, four trims were offered: XL, Touring, XLS and Limited. The Touring was unique in that it was a sporty Avalon, with 17-inch wheels, a more firmly tuned suspension, an all-black interior and aluminum trim. "Sporty" is a relative term, though, since even this Avalon was tuned more for comfort than zipping through corners. All Avalons had a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 and it drove the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Unlike earlier-generation Avalons, this one couldn't be had with a front bench seat. But there was ample room in the front and plenty of legroom to stretch out in back, where a nearly flat floor allowed three adults to sit comfortably. The materials were mostly first-rate and build quality was excellent overall.

Changes throughout this generation were minimal. The 3.5-liter V6 was initially rated for 280 hp, but revised SAE rating procedures dropped that to 268 hp, starting with the 2006 model year. Avalons from 2005-'07 had a five-speed automatic instead of the later six-speed, so expect slightly less performance and fuel economy from these earlier models. For 2009, stability control became standard across the board and the Touring trim was dropped. For 2011, Toyota updated the Avalon's exterior styling and dashboard design. The XLS trim level was also dropped, leaving the base Avalon and the Limited.

In road tests and reviews, we found the third-gen Avalon to be an excellent large sedan. Highway driving in particular is luxurious, making long road trips a pleasure. The V6 engine pulls smoothly and powerfully, while posting impressive fuel economy numbers. This Avalon handles adequately, but mainly this is a full-size car tuned for comfort rather than athleticism. Downsides are few – the rear seat doesn't fold down to expand luggage capacity and the driving demeanor is isolated and hence somewhat dull

With the second-generation Avalon, sold from 2000-'04, Toyota made a number of improvements over the first version. Available in XL and XLS trims, the second-gen Avalon was roomier and more technologically advanced. Optional stability control and brake assist features were added to improve safety. The 3.0-liter V6 was equipped with variable valve timing, providing a modest power increase over the previous generation with a peak of 210 hp. In road tests, we commented that the second-gen Avalon wasn't a particularly interesting car to drive, but it countered with plenty of dependability, comfort and smoothness. A curvaceous dashboard design further distinguished this model from its relatively staid competitors.

The original Toyota Avalon, sold from 1995-'99, came in two trims (XL and XLS) and had a 192-hp 3.0-liter V6 and a four-speed automatic transmission. Minor engine revisions for the 1997 model year saw the output of the V6 increase to 200 hp.

For the first two generations, Toyota did not make many significant changes. Therefore, used-Avalon shoppers should focus more on the condition and mileage of the vehicle than a specific year of production.

User Reviews:

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  good car - 2018 Toyota Avalon
  By Todd - June 30 - 4:16 pm

  Low M/G..

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  Good for summer, bad for winter - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By BDW - June 29 - 10:13 am

  Nice when the weather is warm, but truly awful when the snow is falling. The cars computers cant seem to figure out what to do in snow. Bad traction and very inconclusive driving response. Shame on Toyota! Remote start doesnt allow me get in without turning off car, and it doesnt allow me to get out of car with the engine running and lock the doors. Duh?

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  Wife Loves Car - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By lee harvey - June 25 - 10:00 am

  This 1996 Toyota Avalon has been an excellent vehicle. Bought it new in 96 and have had no problems with the car except those inflicted by the Toyota dealer service dept. Leather seats/ergonomics are very comfortable, can drive for 10 hours without getting stiff. Car is very peppy and enjoyable to drive. Want to buy another one when this one wears out, but it only has 160,000 miles and seems to have plenty of life left. This car had the same battery and brakes for the first 120,000 miles. All other parts still original other than required maint. like timing belt. The paint and interior have held up like a much more expensive car.

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  Wonderful - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Witalis - June 21 - 12:16 pm

  I just bought this car when it was standing in a lot for 2 years according to the owner. I dont know why he didnt use it. I bought it with 197K miles on it. It runs smooth, has power, is very comfy and all the electronics work. The radio was replaced a few years ago. The only things I have to fix are a flex pipe and the inner tie rod end, due to wear. Amazing that these are the only things that need replacing. Great mileage I filled up once for $20 on premium and the needle moved a little with the 40 miles I made so far.

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  Avalon Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By pftaylor - June 21 - 12:10 pm

  The Avalon Limited is the best kept secret Toyota has. It is truly deserving of its flagship position. Lexus quality abounds everywhere except with the medallion.

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  Simply the best - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By rowland - June 20 - 7:00 pm

  Purchased new in 1999, this car has been totally reliable. Have over 100,000 miles and uses no oil and engine is quiet. Had to replace the front struts at 70,000 (a common problem with Avalons-$600). Repaced front brake pads at 80,000, rear still good. Amazing. Easy to drive, quiet, roomy, and lots of power. Make sure you replace the timing belt at 90000 and car should run well for a long time. This is our fourth Toyota and one of the best.

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  Great car! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Stan Sarama - June 18 - 5:46 am

  Great quality and quite a value when compared to competition. Have been an Acura owner and fan for the past ten years. When compared to the new RL this car served my needs and wallet a lot better. Love every aspect as compared to either RL or TL. Have no comlaints about either my old 2000 RL or 96 TL; however, at this point the 2005 Avalon is a much better buy for me than either of the Acura current offerings.

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  Toyota Avalon Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By John - June 11 - 5:23 am

  This car is a joy to own and drive. It is well-appointed both inside and out. My passengers rave about the roomy, comfortable back seat. The only complaint I have about it is that I have a difficult time entering destinations into the navigation system. The buttons are overly sensitive and respond to inputs that I feel that I am not making.

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  Lexus LS at 50% discount - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mark - June 10 - 7:26 pm

  Previous car was the Lexus LS.I commute 90 miles daily and didnt want to put that many miles on a Lexus. So I got the Avalon and bought a Honda S2000 convertible with the savings. The Avalon is very, very close to Lexus levels of luxury and refinement. No better value anywhere.

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  A Grand Car - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By jguen123@comcast.net - June 7 - 6:53 am

  Everything about this car (XL 2008) is tops. Ride, power, omfort, handling, interior, sound system is excellent. Build quality is great. Looks and feels superb. Although it is a large car it handles beautifully. If you are thinking about this car, put your worries to rest. You cannot go wrong with this one. I stayed at the bottom of the line with an XL and am not sorry I did. It has everything you need to arrive in style.