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:

• 

  This car is ridiculous! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike - March 4 - 1:16 am

  Comfortable, fast, luxurious, flashy but not cop drawing flashy, great mpg for its size and speed. I researched every major make and model on the web and test drove about 10 different vehicles. so many cars looked amazing on the websites but driving them was not pleasing. for instance, the nissan maxima-you cant see out the back window and the interior (which looks unbelievable on the website) was all cheap and flims plastic. the avalon looked better than it did on the website. all my friends say "i thought that was a mercedes-i cant believe its a toyota!" incredible car-best decision i ever made.

• 

  Smoother than Volvo. - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By tabarr - February 25 - 10:00 am

  After deciding to purchase a Volvo S80, we, on a lark, test drove the Avalon. What a difference! The Avalon is smoother, quieter, has more user-friendly amenities...and cost less. We drove away in the Avalon and have not regretted it. Wonderful car to drive.

• 

  Luxury for Less - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Ivor branch - February 21 - 11:23 pm

  One young co-worker said, "I was wondering who owned this beautiful car, i would like to own a car like this when i can afford it." Everywhere i drive people stop and stae. My wifes coworkers are all jealous. This car is such a joy to drive. My four-year-old granddaughter refuses to ride in any other car.

• 

  One Magnificent Automobile - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By raylon - February 19 - 3:46 pm

  The car rides like a dream and performs magnificantly in all respects of a true large luxory automobile. Quiet comfortable ride with great amenities.

• 

  A Lexus without the price tag. - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By jrw225 - February 16 - 6:20 am

  This Avalon has been the best car I have ever owned. I have had it more than a year now and bought it used but still have had no problems. It is smooth, luxurious, and every day I drive it I find myself surprised by one of the Avalons many features. Someone put great thought into designing this car from the automatic wipers to the 110 power plug this car is perfect. I get 21 mpg on average but it is worth the extra $2 a week to drive such a fantastic piece of machinery. Im 26 and thought this car was an old man car but after driving it I will not drive anything else. Thanks Toyota!

• 

  First Foreign Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By STLMO - February 14 - 11:30 pm

  Have only driven GM & Ford for last 30 years but saw the new Avalon & had to give it a look. Considered 05 STS, & 300 Ltd but wanted a large back seat and couldnt get past Chryslers reliability rep. Only 500 mi on Avalon but love all the features (have all but remote start). Very comfortable and is beautiful inside & out. No quality issues and gets 25mpg in 50/50 of freeway & stop n go on my daily commute. Ride is great. My sisters ES330 comes off lease 3/06 & she says she is going to get an Avolon just like mine.

• 

  Satisfaction with Avalon - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Harold Cofer - February 14 - 3:43 am

  I looked at a Lexus GS 300, then looked at an Avalon Ltd. and decides to buy the Avalon. Almost the same car except, I think there is actually more leg room in the rear of the Avalon. The only thing that I dislike is the console shift. I think there would be more leg room with a column shift. The memory seats really need 2 positions plus exit, similiar to GM vehicles. I drove GM vehicles for the previous 35 years.

• 

  Bevs Ride - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Beverly Weisinger - February 13 - 12:06 am

• 

  Still amazed - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Oh my my - February 5 - 8:46 pm

  This is car is pure enjoyment, 269 hp great response esp through all gears, smooth ride and handling. Instrument display perfect and at night when lit up, it looks fantastic. Navigation system is a pleasure to use, several interesting features, very useful. Sound system great wouldnt hurt to have a six hundred amp ampiflier. Dynamic laser cruise control, oh yeah! responds real nice in traffic a must have option. Smart key something else, we like the way you can overide the trunk, but remember to lock out the rear arm rest. Moon roof, heated/ac seats, shade screen rear window, auto wipers, hid auto leveling lights, reclining rear seats, the doors when closing sounded solid, I enjoyed the sound over and over

• 

  2007 Limited - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By sstred - January 28 - 5:00 pm

  Had my Avalon about a year now. Same problem as others with the window washer fluid. Other than that, no problems, except the paint is very poor (hence the 7 for build quality). Im not looking forward to the paint in another couple of years. We get 32 on the freeway and in the low 20s in town when my wife drives... not so much with me driving. The tranny feels a little weird at times (almost like its slipping), but I guess thats just the way its made. Weve have no problems with it. I had the factory wheels chromed for about $400. Good value for the money