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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  Very New - Still Learning The 2018 Avalon - 2018 Toyota Avalon
  By Pete - December 24 - 3:11 am

  This is my first car since a 2011 Avalon, and the technology is what is taking a bit longer. The various safety controls, e.g., blind-side monitoring, backing up guides, lane departure, etc., are new to me. The manuals provided are very detailed, but I am one who tends to read about new things like this Avalon from cover to cover. Ive had the car for three weeks, and I am definitely still learning.

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  2000 Toyota Avalon Good but not Perfect - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Della - December 23 - 10:00 am

  The 2000 Toyota Avalon XLS is good but not perfect. I like the slightly boxy design. The fit and finish was almost perfect with the exception of one flaw. One of the trims pieces on the roof seam was dented when I tool delivery. On a car of this caliber, I would have liked to seen a better paint job since I began noticing chips in the paint almost right away. The interior is room and the trunk is downright spacious. The car currently has 33,000 miles and was just diagnosed with a defective ignition cylinder. One doesnt feel real confident when the key wont turn in the ignition. I hope that this will be an isolated incidence no more suprises.

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  Toyota Lexus - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By BINKY - December 19 - 12:26 am

  A very nicely crafted, refined, and roomy, comfortable sedan. I have driven and/or ridden in several late model Luxury brands, and this vehicle equals and usually exceeds the standards of those vehicles!

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  This is a Gem of a car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Roberta - December 15 - 11:13 am

  The outside does not halfway hint the wonder inside the 4 doors of this luxury vehicle even though it is pretty. Everyone, including the passengers in the reclining rear seats get special treatment. The moon roof, comfort and ease of driving make each trip a great time. Lots of spirit for a 6 cylinder so I have had to monitor the speed frequently on this great driving machine. With low miles for a used car, I plan on having this for at least 10 years. Cars used to last that long, however most of mine, in the past, have not stood the test of that duration. I might not like it much if it does not hold up to my expectations for that long. The price was enough so it should last .

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  2000 Avalon - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By ckeene - December 10 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th Toyota. I have owned this vehicle for 3 years and have had NO problems with it. The only work that has been done with it is routine maintenance. It is able to accelerate rapidly and stop just as fast. The ride and spaciousness of the car is difficult to duplicate. I am now looking for a new car and have found the following to be acceptable replacements: Audi A6, Lexus. I would highly reccommend this vehicle.

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  2005 Avalon is reliability plus - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By rogermot - December 8 - 10:40 pm

  I have owned this car for over two years and have 38,000 miles plus on it. Other than the front window shade holder falling out and being replaced, there have been no other maintenance problems. This is the first car that I have ever owned that has been maintenance free. Reliability has been outstanding!

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  Nice car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By sam - December 8 - 1:10 pm

  Smooth as silk on the highway or in town.. Acceleration numbers to 60mph just 2/10s off the pace of a Chrysler 300C. Mileage numbers only 6 mpg less than Honda Accord hybrid. Delivered 30.9 on recent hwy trip and is delivering true 20 mpg in town. Good value. Lots of nice unsolicited comments from people in parking lots. With Nav and headrest DVDs, grandson calls it the spacechip car.

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  Wonderful japenese materal! - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Willam Steven - December 7 - 10:00 am

  This lovely Toyota handles wonderfully, has tons of power, and takes the bumbs well, and is the most comfortable car I was ever in. I love this car. This car has tons and tons of rear leg room. Buy Toyota! This dcar gets an avrage of 24 miles to the gallon.

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  Very nice car - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Marco - December 7 - 3:23 am

  As soon as I saw it, I knew that was the car I wanted. This car has almost everything (except navigation system). The ride is really smooth, you can really relax and ejoying driving even with traffic! All the features are just great and you really enjoy being inside the car! Of course outside looking at the car as well!

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  A Fantastic Car That Needs Fine Tuning - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mikie - December 6 - 2:53 pm

  This is one fantastic car. I love how quick it is on the road and it drives like a luxury car. People are always telling me how beautiful this car is. I only have a few problems.The paint on the front of the car chips easily. I have lots of chips from stones. Maybe an extra coat of paint would help. The mirrors should turn in so I can get the car through the car wash. There are two blind spots if you look to the back of the car. Other than that, I love this car. Oh by the way. I still have a 1995 XLS with 160,000 miles and the car purrs like a kitten. Only thing Ive had to do is put a timing belt in the car. These Toyotas run forever.