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:

• 

  Great MPG and Comfort - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Marvin Mortensen - November 12 - 4:00 pm

  One of the nicest vehicles I have ever owned. Recent trip to NC gave me between 33-34 mpg. Amazing and thats going 70-75 mph most of the trip. The only complaint I have is that you cannot shut the wipers "off". They are completely automatic and come on whenever a few sprinkles hit the windshield. I would recommend this car for overall comfort and fun to drive and of course the great mpg.

• 

  The first 260 miles - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By HERB - November 12 - 1:30 am

  The car is excellant.It has a very nice ride and the interior looks an feels great. I have every thing I want on it. I will be very happy with it if it holds up to all the raves.

• 

  They dont make them like this anymore. - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By ncguy33 - November 12 - 1:06 am

  Bought this car used with 126000 miles on it. Now a few miles from 200000, I havnt had to do anything but oil changes to it. These 2000-2004 model Avalons are the last of the great Toyotas. The newer Toyotas quality cannot compare. Theres no better used sedan out there, bar none.. from the comfort and the gas mileage to the realiability.

• 

  Great w Two Annoying Flaws - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By rpg - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Lux car equal to Lexus at 10K less.

• 

  Nice Car - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By seldom - November 11 - 2:00 am

  This is a beautiful smooth riding car, after driving it for 5 years it is still drives like the original condition when brand new, I wish I bought it used and saved money, it would not have made any difference in the pleasure of driving it.

• 

  Toyoto Review - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By James K - November 4 - 4:52 pm

  Very reliable.

• 

  Transmssion - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By kevin - November 4 - 2:50 pm

  At slow speeds, when gear lever in D, transmssion sometimes has difficulty in deciding appropriate gear to shift into. Toyota dealer says no problem, just a new configuration (drive by wire)that is developing a feel for drivers style. I believe there is a software glitch here. Also, am averaging 15mph city and 25 highway, well below published standards, while driving modestly. Finally, this car is hot, there is almost too much power for a front wheel drive configuration to handle. My 2000 XLS was a more satisfactory purchase.

• 

  Would I Buy Again? - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By 510man - November 4 - 11:26 am

  The Avalon is Toyotas version of a Buick. It is much improved over the prior models. The acceleration and economy are a nice blend. The car has great acceleration, for what it is, and the highway mileage is truly over 30mpg. The car has quite a bit of torque steer and can get squirrelly if youre not paying attention under hard acceleration. My opinion is it should have been a rear wheel drive. The car drives well. Its not to tight so it rides well but its not like driving a sponge when cornering (like a Lincoln, Buick, etc.) Road noise is excessive but some of that may be the CHEAP quality tires the factory put on the car. The AC and heat are the best Ive owned.

• 

  4th Avalon - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By AutoDrone - November 4 - 10:10 am

  Between my family and I we have owned every model of Avalon Toyota has ever made. Theyve never been particularly striking cars, but theyve been great bang-for-the-buck and the rear legroom is unbeatable. The 2011 exterior changes that, it looks 1000 times better. Unfortunately the interior seems to have been downgraded. The "faux-wood" has less shine and looks like a rental car and the fake brushed metal (plastic) center console is ugly and overhangs the rest of the dash by a good inch. The quality of the stitching in the rear seats seems lower as well. I really wanted to like this car based on the tech/look upgrades, but the interior changes are low rent. New version in 2 years.

• 

  Satisfied new owner - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Ronald Troutman - November 4 - 6:33 am

  Only a short term review. Have had the car only a short time, but find that it is very well built as the other three Toyotas we have owned.