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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  Totota Avalon 2006 - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Curtis Feldt - March 3 - 5:26 am

  This car is the best I have ever owned.It is comfortable, very peppy,gets decent gas milage and is thoughtfully designed inside and out. I weas a kid of 9 to 13 in World War 2, with high school heroes coming home after horrible treatment by the Japanese, so it took me 61 years before I would consider a Japanese car. But now I am very glad I bought a Toyota Avalon.

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  More in common with a Lexus than Toyota - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By ibentmywookie - March 2 - 10:40 am

  Its a Lexus, minus the "L" on the front -- which drops the price by at least $10K. Its a joy to drive, the gas mileage is fantastic for a car of this size, and this car can GO. I have to be careful when driving because its very easy to push it past 90 on the highway without even thinking about it -- the ride is that smooth. This is a car that will never annoy you.

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  Nightmare - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Jacks review - February 28 - 10:06 pm

  Rated it very low. Handles badly (follows ruts in highway and drifts around on highway). Headliner not attached in rear. Paint so soft the wind scratches, it seems. Electrical switches work sporadically. There is an undiagnosed rattle on the passenger side in the front. Makes you wonder if you take a trip, if you will get there or not. Reliability is scary.

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  Toyota Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By JOHN - February 24 - 12:23 pm

  This my second Avalon was very pleased with first car even more pleased with cutrrent Avalon.I drive from FL to NJ round trip four times a year.. very enjoyable trip.. driving is effortless & extremely comfortable. Comfort of the seats.

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  Nice - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By rburnham - February 24 - 3:43 am

  Extremely comfortable ride. Interior is well appointed and makes sense. Fit is adjustable to anyone. Engine is far superior to the rest of the field. Gas mileage is 23 to 28 depending upon how hard you accelerate. One of the best cars I have ever owned.

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  Beautiful Automobile - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Brad M - February 14 - 8:13 pm

  This is the second Avalon that Ive owned, and the 2007 is much nicer than the 2004 I traded. Test drove Volvo S80, Saab 9-5 and Lexus ES 350. The Avalon, while not having the panache of the other brands, is by far the best value for the money. Beautiful interior, contemporary exterior and the powertrain is responsive.

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  Not ready for medicare yet - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Carl - February 14 - 10:06 am

  Thought the new Avalon would have better handling, but it drives like my fathers old Buick. The concept is great... lots of features, good price/ value, should have good reliability, but "oh what a feeling" is missing big time. Mileage is 19 to 20 in town on the road it is 27+/-. The transmission seems to slip. Dealer says it is a new 6 speed auto and is supposed to slip(?). To our surprise it is not very comfortable on long trips. Neither of us have back problems but after 3 hours our backs start to hurt. So this car will be going on Autotrader/ Cars.com soon. It will be a while before we go back to Toyota.

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  Solid compared to competition - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By avalon - February 13 - 11:26 pm

  Ahead of Chrysler300, Ford500, and Buick Lacrosse, but has several shortcomings. The throttle is lagging, not enough headroom in the back, more road noise than I expected, and the wood interior looks and feels decidedly fake. HID Headlights not available on XLS. The steering is too light for the "performance sedan". Overpriced compared to Lexus ES330.

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  Problem with my Avalon? - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Pat G. - February 13 - 12:10 pm

  We bought our 2005 Toyota Avalon XL in May and were very satisfied with it but now I am beginning to have second thoughts. It has less than 3000 miles on it now. I made a 200 mile round trip in July and it made 31 mpg. Great!! I really bragged it up. But two weeks ago I made the same trip but on a breezy day and temps in the 90-100 degree range. This time it made 25 mpg as well as downshifted on slight inclines. Yesterday I had to make the same trip under nearly the same hot/breezy conditions and it made 25 again and had the same problems with downshifting on the slightest of inclines. The dealer tells us that Toyota is having problems with Avalons fuel mileage in hot weather. ??????

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  Best car I have ever owned - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Jack - February 10 - 10:46 pm

  The Avalon limited is without question one of the best cars I have owned. I have owned a Volvo S80 and 740 turbo. I have owned a Mercedes E and S class. Yes I enjoyed my S class Mercedes but for the money, you cant beat the Avalon. I love the style outside and in. I have had more compliments on this car than any other. And, I love to drive it.