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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  my toy - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By pavel g - September 1 - 10:00 am

  I wish it was a little more exciting in its exterior styling. It is comfortable and I enjoy it. I wish it had an exterior combonation lock like my old Lincoln, and I would like the trunk to pop up more.

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  The green machine - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By John Glauber - September 1 - 8:37 am

  Because of hail damage the car was repainted in 2015. It was the new light green for 2008. Have had many compliments on the color. Sorry you are way behind I traded this for a new one in 2016

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  As good as any new car - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By stevesavalon - August 31 - 10:06 pm

  Bought when 9 months old with 13,000 miles. Now have 118,000 and runs like new. 25 mpg commuting, 31 hwy. Replaced struts at 75,000, front brakes 75,000 and front brakes 115,000. Thats the only maintenance besides timing belt at 90,000. I cannot get excited about paying $35+ for a new car that isnt any better than this. Hope to see over 200,000+ before I would consider changing.

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  Great car for at any price - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Roberta Jenkins - August 23 - 1:28 pm

  We have had this car since new. Very dependable, very comfortable, very economical.

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  2005 Avaoln Limited - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Bart - August 20 - 10:53 am

  Our previous Avalons were 1997 XLS and 2000 XLS. Each newer model has been a little better handling and quieter, our 2005 Limited has much better performance and handling than previous, and the highway mileage is over 33 mpg. 2005 Limited has super features, auto dimming mirrors with turn indicators, ventilated front seats (nice in 100 degree AZ summers), great stereo, nav system, laser cruise, tilt/telescoping steering column, heat/air system performs great, auto leveling headlights, and is a very comfortable road and town car. It looks great too.

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  The good, the bad and the ugly - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By lewisclaim - August 18 - 8:50 pm

  A luxury car, that is selling for an increasingly luxury price. Great quite ride which is much better handling with better road feel than I expected. The comfort and features of the interior are great. Styling is just like every other car now, boxy high sides and cat eye windows. Vision is restricted in all the new cars and it is in the Avalon too. None of these manufacturers have an original idea. If you are paying the extra 10% for the limited, the car should at least say limited on it.

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  1997 Toyota Avalon - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By bawe - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Outstanding value Huge interior and trunk Lots of gadgets

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  Disappointed with Steering Problem - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Disappointed in MD - August 16 - 9:43 am

  Purchased the car in early 2006. I now have 60,000 miles and I am experiencing problems with my steering. I have taken it back to the dealership several times for the steering sticking when turning left but they informed me that they can not find anything wrong. I am very disappointed with Toyota and see that many others are experiencing the same problem. My hope is that I will not experience the same problem that others are experiencing with the oil leak. Unless Toyota steps up and own up to fixing the legitimate repairs, I will never buy another Toyota. I am currently getting the runaround. Even though I have the extended warranty, Toyota is trying to get around fixing my problem.

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  This ones a sleeper - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By chicago88 - August 15 - 10:56 am

  This car keeps me laughing at all who spend a lot more on the luxury models as well as those whom have to use premium fuel. The Avalon has a limo like back seat which makes taking guest out with you a very flattering event as well as the pleasure and comfort of the ride. I use this car for both long business trips (300 mi+) and local. The mileage has been good for a bigger six (24 mpg avg). The ability for this car to get up and go is amazing. The manual shift mode is exciting with almost 300 ponies under the hood but yet refined enough for the wifes finest dress and black tie night out.

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  2007 Avalon with Special Edition Pk 2 - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By BlackBeauty - August 13 - 1:33 am

  I have been buying new cars for 40 years. This is my first Japan purchase. My Avalon is the best car I have ever owned.