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 Avalon Yet - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Gary Boswell - May 23 - 6:40 pm

  This is our third Avalon and by far the best to date. Styling and interior comfort far exceeded other vehicles in the same class.

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  Unexpected Quality - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By luvtoyota10 - May 19 - 11:09 pm

  I have a Toyota Venza, this is my fathers car and I thought it was just some slow, floaty old man car. I was kind of wrong. Its not slow and floaty at all, but still kind of an old man car. This touring model almost drives like a camry but the sterring is light and vague, like my Venza. Its pretty agile for its size. The ride is very comfortable even with the touring suspension, unlike my 2010 venza... There is still more body roll than I expected but I like its stability. The HID headlamps are cool but expesive in the long-run. I wish the display for the radio and climate controls were a bit better. I really like the color scheme too its Blue Mirage exterior and Black leather interior.

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  2005 avalon limited - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By FTE - May 17 - 12:20 am

  Great car. Quiet, powerful and ++ mileage. I traded a lincoln town car. Im 67" and weigh 255. This may sound crazy, but the avalon is more comfortable!!! Be ready to study and I mean study the manual(s!) but the car is very intuitive.

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  Solid car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By jmacgregor87 - May 13 - 4:50 pm

  I live in the NW and this is my girlfriends car. She has owned it since day 1 of its life and takes good care of it. Miles; 126K Pros; Dirves great, good gas milage, stars every time, dependable, and is comfortable for long hauls. Cons; In the last 2 years things have started to break/fail. She has replaced the key ignition twice for 2 different reasons. Some rattles have started to show up, it is 10 years old. The sub-woffer has a short, we found out its in the stereo it self.

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  AWESOME!!! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Lindsey - May 12 - 1:50 pm

  I am very happy with this car. It drives so smooth and comfortable. Very reliable and fun. Nice and roomy! I feel very safe too!

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  awesome! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By kelkel - May 7 - 2:00 am

  just got a 1998 lxs as early xmas present from hubby.. i love it! its pretty and comfortable!! very very nice car! and lots of room in the back also!

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  New 2005 Avalon XLS - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By doc - May 5 - 4:46 pm

  After looking at the Infiniti G-35 and the Acura TL as well as the Avalon, I went with the Avalon. These three vehicles are all around the same price range. The Avalon as equipped in the XLS package is just more car for the money. It is considerably larger than the other two vehicles. It is considerably more roomy for four passengers. The new styling isnt as boxy as the previous models. I had leased an Avalon in 1999 and thought it was one of the best cars Id driven. It is also a very reliable and comfortable vehicle.

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  Not what they used to be - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Bob - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Pros: Great fuel economy for the size. VERY comfortable interior. Interior cabin is huge. Tons of rear legroom ! Cons: Rides like a 1970 Lincoln Mark 5 but handles like one too. Getting ready to take it in for yet another Toyota recall. Sensors going bad left and right. 02 and air-fuel ratio sensors and now the air bag light started flashing. It is also starting to have electrical gremlins (lights flickering)I have owned several Toyotas in the past and the quality and reliability used to be 2nd to none. Man has that changed. Ever wonder why Ford is selling so many vehicles now ? Because they build a better vehicle...Wake up Toyota, you lost yet another customer.

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  Toyota #13 - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Ted - May 3 - 1:00 am

  This was our 1st Avalon and 13th Toyota. From the day I first saw one in a parking lot, I was impressed with the design and presentation of the car. I am very particular and this car replaced my 1997 Volvo Wagon. The car is sweet to drive, quite, smooth,and power when you need it. I test drove a Lexus, but could not justify the high cost compared to the Avalon. The Blizzard Pearl is a stunning color. I also like the navigation system. I am a computer forensic examiner and have read many complaints about the entry control feature; I found it seamless and pretty easy to use. The car is elegant with a sporty flair that draws attention. The exterior design is beautiful.

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  Good, solid and reliable - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Kenneth B - May 1 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car from a friend who owned it from new. Was kept in excellent shape and maintained well. Only about 80,000MI on it when I took it over. Runs like it is brand new. No squeaks or rattles. Solid. Engine is fantastic with lots of power and good fuel economy. Love the roominess especially for passengers in the back seats. Good buy for anyone looking at this vehicle class.