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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  Our 06 XLS - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Dale - March 6 - 7:56 am

  We are completely impressed with our XLS, it is truly the vehicle for us, the overall performance of the powertrain is superb, we broke it right in with a 2,500 mile trip right after taking delivery of it & it performed "second to none". We are very satisfied with all aspects of the vehicle for the price paid. Who needs a Lexus when the Avalon is available!!

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  2003 Toyota Avalon - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By BLH - March 4 - 2:40 pm

  Exceptionally comfortable and functionally includes everything, but lacks excitement. Still gets great gas milage.

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  Model of the Perfect Car - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Richard Hale - March 1 - 11:43 pm

  This car is everything a real car should be. Roomy, beautiful, powerful, safe, economical, and reliable. Toyota has the perfect formula with this automobile.

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  Avalon Review - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Brad Wyatt - February 28 - 11:16 pm

  Best car I have ever owned. Very comfortable, gobs of room, and lots of high tech stuff. In effect it is the makings of a Lexus LS 430 at about half the cost without all the flash. Same people make it and it gets better MPG, uses regular gas, and is only 10 horsepower less. Unless you have money to burn, get this car not an LS. (Although if I had money to burn I would consider the LS.)

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  Reliable, but... - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Abbood - February 28 - 10:06 am

  This is a very reliable car; I didnt face any of the common problems I used to have with my previous Audi (window hanging, lamp fuse down, etc.). However, it is suitable for older people and a 29 year old like me will get bored of it fairly quickly. I have had this car for a year and I have already started looking.

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  Touring Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Steve B - February 25 - 1:40 pm

  This is the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven. I can actually move the driver seat so far back it makes it difficult for my to reach the pedals and the sterring wheel. And, at 63" and 52 years old, that has not ever been the case in any car Ive driven before. Buy the Touring version, with its ultra-smooth road feel, and enjoy taking it out on the road. Also, I have been experiencing right around 33 MPG on the highway. Thats just what we needed in todays economy!

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  2007 toyota avalon xls - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By rowdy - February 25 - 5:56 am

  This auto was the best in the price range that we test drove. Great features including sunroof, leather, and reclining rear seats. Has great leg room in the rear passenger area.

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  Definitely worth the money - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By MARKXLS - February 20 - 9:36 pm

  Only 2000 miles on the car (XLS) thus far, but Im extremely happy with it. Even the standard XLS stereo (not the JBL) w/nine speakers sounds VERY good - NO distortion. Comfortable drivers seat. LOTS of room for rear-seat passengers. Smooth, quiet ride. Feels like Im going 60 MPH on the freeway, but when I look at the speedometer, Im surprised to see 80 MPH on the dial. This car flies on the freeway.

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  1997 Toyota Avalons - 2 of them - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By Legacy - February 19 - 6:00 am

  I liked my first Avalon so much that I bought another in 2000 and weve put 330,000 miles on the pair. Both are nicked up but they still run fine (2008). In 19 (combined) years of use Ive had only ~$3,000 in repairs (other than an accident, tires and oil changes). Cons: Weak in snow. Steerling column leak (both cars - use sealing fluid). Goes through tires too quickly. Toyotas known for quality and reliability and thats exactly what Ive experienced. In 2007 I purchased a 1986 Corolla that runs fine. I now need a 4th car and it will be a Toyota. I still feel that I made a solid purchase every time I start up one of my Avalons.

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  excellent...Proud to OWN and drive! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Barbra - February 18 - 7:43 am

  This is an exceptional car, and being in Real Estate it serves all my needs and my clients comfort. Less money than the other luxury cars w/ more bells and whistles. Everyone is so impressed and knows the true "value" of a great car is hard to find. The leg room in the back is awesome, the GPS system easy to view, the a/c in the seats a real comfort, and there is only one thing I would have liked as an otion and that is the bluetooth feature... other than that I will never own another car other than the Avalon. It IS CLASS!