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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  Love it - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Rosemary - June 28 - 11:50 pm

  This is what I wanted, Luxury with the quality of a Toyota. Limited is the way to go.

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  LOVE THAT 09 AVALON LIMITED - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By IOWA - June 24 - 2:26 pm

  We love our new Avalon! Bought a loaded Limited without navigation or the optional cruise feature. Moved from a mini-van to a car with a lot of research before buying. Some main concerns had been ease of getting in and out of a car and also if there would be enough leg and head room for several 64" adults. We love the ride and comfort. Plenty of room for those long legs. I have some back problems but these seats fit me just right so no problems. Driving our gravel winter roads on snow, ice, slush gets us 26-27 mpg. Like the vehicle stability control feature. Driving on a vacation in the sunny south got us 32-35 mpg. Had the car 4 months and close to 10,000 miles already.

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  Dream came true in Texas - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By john boy - June 23 - 10:00 am

  Little over 5000 miles, you can not beat the quietness and the ride. This is our 4th Toyota car, you can see the quality control inside/out, I dont get tired driving this vehicle

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  Best Car I have ever owned - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By Suzie - June 17 - 2:00 am

  The Toyota Avalon is a great car with a reasonable price. The car is reliable, comfortable and quiet. This car is sporty yet has plenty of room making a comfortable ride for the passengers. Has great pick-up speed and the stereo system is fabulous. I would never consider buying a different Sedan.

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  Best Car I have ever owned - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By suzie - June 17 - 2:00 am

  The Toyota Avalon is a great car with a reasonable price. The car is reliable, comfortable and quiet. This car is sporty yet has plenty of room making a comfortable ride for the passengers. Has great pick-up speed and the stereo system is fabulous. I would never consider buying a different Sedan.

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  Toyota Avalon - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Jimbof - June 17 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car that I have owned. I bought the model with the 60/40 Front seats. It sits very comfortably for tall people(63")Plenty of leg room in the front and back. I love this car!

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  My Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim - June 15 - 8:13 pm

  I had my Avalon over a year and it has been the best vehicle I have owned during the past forty-five years. Great ride and power when one needs it. I have not had one problem with this car. My friends whom ride in my car loves it. Lots of room in the back seat for legs. You wont go wrong buying a Toyota Avalon. We love it!

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  Simply the finest - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Bill - June 15 - 7:50 am

  This is the finest drive I have experienced. I am convinced the 2005 Avalon is the equivalent of the Lexus, in terms of ride and road quiet. The Limited is a step up from the other models of the Avaoln as well. I have consistently gotten 26-27 mpg in mixed city and highway driving on regular gas. The seats are comfortable on both in and out driving or long distance trips and vented/heated is a great addition. The quality of the sound system is excellent. The car also has a powerful acceleration if you need it. Surprisingly agile in cornering too. Im sold on this car and on the guys at Toyota.

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  Great car for the $ - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Manny - June 14 - 1:20 pm

  Need car after 10 yrs w/Infiniti. Considered many others, 4 & 6 cyl. Avalon smoothest suspension & plenty of amenities; seems as if its on Lexus LS platform, w/o the price or quite the cache-but also w/o premium gas requirement. Avg > 30 mpg on my first highway drive & overall ave. ~ 24.5 miles per gallon in mixed city and hwy driving. JBL 12 spkr very nice. Highly recommend.

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  2011 Avalon (Great car, Horrible dealership services) - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By avalon_lova - June 14 - 7:56 am

  I love my new Avalon. The suspension is smooth without the floaty ride. Rear seat legroom (roomier in class), adjustable rear seat comfort is a nice touch. Great car to own if you have a personal driver. A/C and Nav controls are intuitive and easy to operate. Only tech missing is the adaptive cruise control.