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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  Avalon Troubles - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By hat7e - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I had a few, but significant problems with the avalon. The transmission needed to be replaced after 3 years, 80,000 miles. Which unfortnately came after warranty coverage. The problem has now come back requiring complete replacement again. Otherwise the car has run great, great highway cruising. If you can find one is good shape I would recommend buying one. I think my problem is atypical.

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  Not a Happy Camper - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By disappointed - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I finally broke down and bought a Toyota after hearing the glowing reviews from all the owners. What a mistake. I thought that I was buying a reliable car. However, the day after I bought the car, it wouldnt start. The battery was dead. I checked and couldnt find any electrical item on. The dealer towed it and replaced the battery. They couldnt find anything wrong either. The rest of the problems were minor compared to this, but I expected zero defects from the way everyone rants about Toyota. As soon as I find a gullible buyer, Im unloading this trash.

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  Not a Happy Camper - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By DisAppointed - April 29 - 10:00 am

  I finally broke down and bought a Toyota after hearing the glowing reviews from all the owners. What a mistake. I thought that I was buying a reliable car. However, the day after I bought the car, it wouldnt start. The battery was dead. I checked and couldnt find any electrical item on. The dealer towed it and replaced the battery. They couldnt find anything wrong either. The rest of the problems were minor compared to this, but I expected zero defects from the way everyone rants about Toyota. As soon as I find a gullible buyer, Im unloading this trash.

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  Toyota is Superior Quality - 2018 Toyota Avalon
  By RP - April 28 - 9:52 pm

  with months of research..decided on the 2018 Avalon XLE. I do Love this car. It looks sporty, it handles nice and has ample power..very comfortable to drive.

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  Glad I did not do the Lexus - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim Meadows - April 28 - 12:26 pm

  I tried to talk myself into the LS 460 or the ES350. It came down to the ES, and I decided to save 10000 and still got a superior vehicle: more bells and whistles, better ride, more room (even larger in back seat than the 460) better gas mileage (average for us is almost 29) more power, regular gas. The car is so smooth, the only thing I downgraded was "fun to drive". I have a back problem and traded a cadillac to get something really comfortable. This is it. My last three cars have been Cadillac SRX, Infiniti Q45, and Lexus LS 400. The Limited Avalon is superior to the Caddy, and equivalent of the 400 and 430 and Q45. I cannot believe I got this much car for this price.

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  Not so reliable - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By tom - April 26 - 2:23 pm

  Owned since new. Many disappointing problems. Very expensive considering the number of amenities. 60k - transmssion leaks. <100k, all steering components had to be replaced. Power steering pump had to be replaced twice. Tire wear is a huge problem! This car wears out tires in 20k miles, even top rated tires.

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  Wonderful Car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Diane - April 26 - 10:36 am

  Believe it or not, traded a Prius for the Avalon due to long drives and increased comfort. It drives like a dream compared to the Prius. Also had a G35, and like this one much better. Think the interior could be quieter, but havent found a car yet that was as quiet as I thought it should be. Compared to every other car in the price range and several more expensive and this is the only one that had all the features that I was seeking. Also got the Special Edition Package and looks much more sporty.

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  Great car, terrible navigation system - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By micdon - April 26 - 6:00 am

  Have had no problems with vehicle maintenance, the reliability has been very good. Average fuel mileage (regular gas) 27 mpg, the ride is comfortable with in-seat heat/cooling. Overall the vehicle has been great. The navigation system is a loser, very difficult to program and gives erroneous directions in congested areas. Save the $1900 and purchase a reliable portable GPS at a fraction of the price.

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  OUTSTANDING VEHICLE !!!!!!!!!!!! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By warren loewe - April 24 - 10:00 am

  AFTER HAVE A MAXIMA (7YRS) & PONTIAC GRAND PRIX GT (2YRS) I FIND THIS CAR TO BE SUPERIOR IN EVERY WAY. MAXIMA WAS A GREAT CAR, BUT I FEEL NISSAN HAS FORGOTTEN ABOUT RIDE, COMFORT AND INTERIOR LOOKS FOR HORSEPOWER. I FEEL THE PONTIAC IS THE BEST OF THE GM LOT AND WAS A VERY GOOD CAR BUT THE ONLY REASON I BOUGHT THE PONTIAC BECAUSE OF THE GM CARD REBATE I HAD TO USE UP.I ALSO HAD A GREAT DEALER IN ARLINGTON TO WORK WITH.

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  Wow! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Que - April 24 - 10:00 am

  The 2003 Avalon XLS is my first Toyota after 13 straight years of driving an Accord and I couldnt be happier with my choice. The ride is quiet and superb. Acceleration is smooth and powerful, with a truly superior stereo. Heads turn everywhere I go, and with good reason...its beautiful!