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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  Best Value in the new car market - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By tankfrank - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Quiet, roomy, well built, reliable, a solid performer. My first Japanese Designed car and I love it. No more GM cars for me.

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  STOP - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Sam S. - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Toyota has got to stop making these heavy and ugly bodies. The rest of the car is excellent but the power to weight ratio is horrible. 03 Maximas weight much less and have 45 more horses.

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  How Sweet it is!!! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Richard M - June 8 - 12:10 am

  What a vehicle this is! It was my second choice until I test drove it and then I had to have one. So fun to drive, especially with radar cruise control on the interstates. Very quiet,powerful, and fast. Had to shop around for a good price, but it was worth it.

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  Avalon: 133k of Reliability & Value - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Isoka - June 6 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven my Avalon for six years after buying it used, driving on a combination of high speed freeway and beat up lousy DC streets. The car is bulletproof. No mechanical problems at 133,000 miles. Never replaced timing belt. People get in the car, cross their legs in the back seat, and ask, "what is this car??" Used two different Toyota dealers over this time, but neither was worth a damn. Luckily the cars dont break, so you dont have to see them much.

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  Couldnt Be Happier - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By seddy83 - June 3 - 7:46 am

  I love my car. I only intended on keeping it for a few years but I love it too much not to keep it in my family. I have not experienced any maintenance issues. Since I purchased the vehicle, Ive only had to do regular maintenance like oil changes, tires rotated, new wiper blades, etc. The only draw back to the car is that a cassette player came stock even though I have premium JBL speakers. Good thing I could swap it out with one that I can link my iPod to.

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  chaikan - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By oude - June 2 - 10:00 am

  drive nicely and look nice too.

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  Excellent Sedan - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By s56ping - May 30 - 9:37 am

  I love this car. I have had if for two months and have put about 7000 miles on it. Having come from an SUV the last 15 years, the ride on the Avalon is a big plus. I really like the cabin room, smooth transmission and engine, and the overall classy interior. I have been averaging about 23 mpg combined, and have seen 29 mpg on the interstate. The radio and controls are easy to view and use. I have the base radio and its works great and even sounds great for a standard system. The only issue that I have is I could use a little more trunk room.

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  Not the Toyota I Expected - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By mikeecee - May 26 - 2:55 pm

  Our Avalon was purchased w/ about 90,000 miles...we took it for a short test drive it was great! HOWEVA, when driving on longer trips, both passenger and driver seats become uncomfortable, to the point of numb legs. After about a year of ownership, during an oil change, the technician informed me there was a lot of oil on the engine. We took it to the dealer, and a crankshaft gasket had failed (they said it is a freak thing). Most expensive repair ever. Otherwise, it has been fairly reliable

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  Tried em all - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By toyota again - May 25 - 7:46 am

  This Avalon is the nicest ride I ever felt. Reliable, durable, just cant be beat.

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  OH WHAT A FEELING - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By LOSMANKY - May 25 - 2:00 am

  MY WIFE HAS HAD HER 97 AVALON XLS FOR 3 YEARS NOW. WE ARE JUST AS HAPPY TODAY AS WE WERE THE DAY WE BAUGHT IT. I LOVE JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING ABOUT THE CAR EXCEPT FOR SOME OF THE INTERIOR FEATURES THAT ARE ON THE NEW BODY STYLE, LIKE REAR CUP HOLDERS. ANOTHER THING MORE PERFORMANCE & COSMETIC UPGRADES AVAILABLE. OTHER THAN THE FEW NICK PICK THINGS I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS CAR AND WILL BUY ANOTHER WHEN THAT TIME COMES, IT HAS 112,000 RELATIVELY TROUBLE FREE MILES ON HER. THE ONLY PROBLEM LIKE MANY 97S IS RACK & PINION PROBLEM & STRUT BRACE, OTHER THAN THAT TOTAL TOYOTA QUALITY.