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:

• 

  Very nice car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By pc - February 5 - 9:13 am

  Ive had my Avalon for a month now and I am very pleased. One minor trim problem (faux wood piece in door not seated properly), which Im surprised was not caught at the factory. Very roomy, which was a priority in my purchase decision. Transmission takes a little getting used to and can be hesitant on occasion but not something that would change my original decision. Power is more than adequate and a nice, smooth ride. Im hoping my Toyota wears as well as most others Ive heard about. If you want a roomy, full size car, this is the one!

• 

  No Apple Carplay - I am switching to Acura - 2018 Toyota Avalon
  By MD - February 3 - 7:17 am

  This car has no Apple Carplay! I am switching to Acura TLX.

• 

  great car for the money - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By vince - January 31 - 10:46 pm

  Very happy with the car except that is hesitates after coming out of a rolling stop. The dealer said it was a common problem with this trans. Ride is quiet and comfortable. I had to put after market leather in the car because the XL doesnt come with it. I have been using regular gas and the gas mileage seems to be ok.

• 

  Thank You Toyota Avalon - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By R.T. - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This is the first NEW car I have ever owned. I did much research before buying this car. It is everything I expected it to be and more. I was involved in a head on collision while driving this Avalon. I thought I was dead. I honestly believe that this car saved my life. Thank you Toyota for building this car. I know that I will be more than happy in my next Avalon and I know that I will be safe.

• 

  Buick Convert - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By LS - January 29 - 4:43 am

  Having been a buick fan (last one the Ultra) I am finding this car to be far superior. Allthough the car seems smaller and more sporty to drive the overall size, comfort and interior room are equal to the Buick and provide plenty of room for a large person. Interior storage compartments are vast and handy to access compared to the Buick (dont have to jamb the door shut on the glove compartment). The quiet motor provides all the get up and go that I require with extra to spare. The bumps are noticeable on inferior roads, but on a quality highway it rides and handles like a dream. Am constantly finding little extras like the hold down clamps on the floor mats.

• 

  Very Close to Lexus - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By zdude - January 27 - 9:20 am

  I traded my Lexus LS430 for the Avalon and so far I really like it. It handles better than I expected and the gas milage has been fantastic! It has all the amenities I was wanting and so far has been trouble free. I drove 900 miles in one day last week (yes, 900 miles) and the journey was pretty comfortable the whole trip! So far I am very happy with my purchase. The car is no stunner in the looks department but I like it and prefer a less-flashy car in these times. Also, to the poster who said it was ugly why would you buy it based on all the negative comments you made? Didnt you see it / test drive it before you bought it? Maybe get help before your next purchase next time.

• 

  Love my Avalon!! - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By PeggyC - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I have owned Mercedes, Volvos, and BMWs. I bought this car used(24,000 miles) from a dealership. It is a certified car by toyota. This car has never been to the shop. I keep the oil changed and do the routine maintenence. The roomie interior is great--5 adults fit-no problem. It has been the best car i have ever owned!

• 

  1999 Avalon review - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By dhopper - January 24 - 10:00 am

  great car with lots of room

• 

  Not what they used to be - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Bill Martin - January 24 - 3:40 am

  I must say I am very disappointed in this car. I know the service writer on a personal basis. A transmission at 15,000, 2 power window motors, an engine computer, and waterpump at 19,000. That is plain out bad engineering.

• 

  Not the ride of my life - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Bruce Merda - January 23 - 6:13 pm

  Had an 03, loved it. From the specs the 08 should be even better. It is in every way except the ride. If youre on smooth blacktop fine, any other surface you will feel via the seat each tar strip, pavement crack, bump, and if you hit a hole... oh my! I drive 55 Ca. freeway miles a day. Hate the ride every mile. Suspension way too stiff for Toyotas luxury flagship, just jar & jolt. 17" wheels dont help either. 16" means more absorbing rubber and a softer ride. They need to quit trying to build cars to satisfy the specification desires of some auto magazines testers whose standards are usually race track handling, the biggest wheels & lots of hpwr. The Avalon isnt a sports car!