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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  Great car! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Debbie - January 9 - 9:16 pm

  I had previously owned 2 Toyotas but most recently had a 1990 BMW 525i. I enjoyed my BMW for 12 years. However, Im very impressed with the Avalon. I did plenty of research and probably knew as much about the car as the salesman. Its everything I had read about...comfortable, roomy, plush...It drives well on the open road. Id never had automatic doors, a cup holder, leather, CD changer. So Im in heaven. Great value for the price.

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  Glad I Bought It - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By Derek M. - January 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought the Avalon XLS new in 1999 and drove it 3000 miles soon after. It is comfortable, gets 28 miles/gallon on the highway, and has had no mechanical problems. My family and I have plenty of leg room and luggage space. I enjoy driving it in the city (Los Angeles), as well as on long trips. Its a great family sedan with all the comfort and reliability I expected fro

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  Japanese Buick is a nice thing to say - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By RubaDub - January 4 - 2:00 am

  If only the bumpers were less prone to get nicked and scratched this might be THE perfect car. In some 37,000 miles, NO waranty trips to the dealer, original brakes and tires still pass State inspection. Nicwe acceleration, smoooooth mechanicals. Up to 32mpg on a road trip, decentr mileage around town. So quiet inside you can hold conversation in normal tone of voice at 80 MPH.

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  Toyota Avalon Limited 2005 - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Sharron Zeisman - January 3 - 10:53 am

  This is my second lease of an Avalon. It is a dream to drive as I have arthritus, and It is so comfortable. It drives as though it it the top of the Lexus Brand. Most of the high-end extras that the Lexus has comes standard on the Limited. It has items that I never would have thought I needed. Its keyless entry is great as are all of its other extras. This truly drives like a car that starts at $50,000. I have driven "luxury cars" for years. There is not much difference.

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  Bought to sell, but decided to keep. - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Ben Hubby - January 3 - 12:51 am

  Great acceleration, sports suspension for cornering, mileage on premium gas is 33 MPG. How do you beat that with a 268 HP engine?

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  Nice to drive - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Bobk - January 1 - 2:20 pm

  I shopped the Buick Lacerne and the Avalon.The body style was the final draw to purchase the Avalon.It is a pleasure to drive plenty of power and comfort. Local milage has been 191/2 local and road 27 to 28 miles to a gallon at 70 to 75 miles per hour.People stop an say what a great looking car it is.My other car is a Lincoln continental the Avalon ride is as good.

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  Great family car - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By Dan o - December 30 - 2:00 am

  Tons of room, quite, power, and smooth driving. Huge trunk too.

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  A very impressive vehicle - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Gary U - December 28 - 8:06 pm

  Just purchased my 2005 Avalon Limited mirage blue with ivory interior with DVD Nav, Laser cruise control pretty much loaded with most of the options and I am thrilled with the vehicle. I had currently owned a landrover discovery and mercedes and was considering getting a new mercede, Audi, Infinity, or Lexus. After looking and driving all of theses vehicles I kept comming back to the Avalon not only for the beauty of the car but also the price compared to these other vehicles I had considered. I think Toyota is the leader in quality and styling. Take the new Avalon for a ride and I think you will be impressed.

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  Awesome - 2010 Toyota Avalon
  By Allen - December 25 - 11:00 pm

  I have owned a few new cars. This 2010 Avalon has to be the best.

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  2nd time around - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Steve - December 23 - 3:33 am

  I went back to a Toyota Avalon after owning a Chrysler 300 for just over a year. The Avolon gets much better gas milage, a smoother ride, just as much if not more leg room in the front and back. The style is still great as well!