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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  Love the Avalon! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Becky145 - October 8 - 4:30 pm

  I love everything about this car. It looks good inside and out. Lots of storage, very comfortable and roomy, quiet at ANY speed, easy to handle. I have been told it is a Lexus with the Toyota name on it. Same engine and body as a lower class Lexus. I would highly recommend it to anyone, any age!!

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  Great Car!! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By kes44 - October 6 - 10:00 am

  We enjoy our Avalon -- especially the room. Any "problems" were well taken care of by the dealer, and they were nothing major, just a few adjustments.

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  Good car, enjoying it! - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By BHSK - October 6 - 10:00 am

  I researched many consumer websites before purchasing. I was wanting a spacious, reliable, comfortable driving car. I know others who have purchased the Avalon XLS in recent years that are also very satisfied. We recently took a trip and the car handled very smoothly and quietly on the interstate. I had been driving a Cadillac Sedan Deville prior to my purchase and was not happy getting only 18/24 MPG with that vechile, even with premium gas. Also had a number of repairs each year, and the Cadillac parts were very expensive (struts, suspension sensor light, etc). Thus far, it has been easy to see why Avalon has won many "best buy" consumer awards.

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  Best Value in the Car World Today - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By carlupi - October 4 - 10:00 am

  The more I drive my 2009 Avalon the happier I am that I bought it. This is the best car for the money on the market today. I hope Toyota replaces it with a similarly high value product in 2012, when the new model should come out.

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  My Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Redregal - October 3 - 3:56 pm

  This is the finest car that I have ever owned in 60 years of driving. My only complaint has been the odometer and cruise control position readouts. They cannot be seen during daylight hours when wearing sun glasses. At night the dash is beautiful and easily read but they dimmed the odometer and cruise control lighting and you cannot read the information. Other than that this is an A1 car. Great performance and luxury. Its my "Lexus" at a bargain price. The active cruise control is the greatest accessory ever.

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  2004 avalon xl - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Marie - October 3 - 5:43 am

  Great mileage and very comfortable. Not very stylish though and considered and "old peoples car" around here. I love it though.

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  New 2007 Avalon XL - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By ABM - October 2 - 11:03 pm

  The best car I have ever own as far as performance, room, comfort and sporty looks. Car is fun to drive and is very quiet.

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  A Great Sedan - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By t. wagner - October 1 - 4:20 pm

  My Avalon looks and drives very well. It has many "creature features" and I feel good driving it. I was looking for a fresh style in the largest, most dependable sedan I could find. I also wanted performance. The new Avalon fit my criteria and price point. Cost of ownership and value also impacted my decision. Acceleration is strong and smooth, with a bit of torque steer on harder acceleration. The control panel covers give the dash a futuristic appearance, and I feel the controls are easy to use I have experienced some rattles the first two months of owership that have caused the vehicle to be out of service for a few days. Other than that this vehicle has been problem free.

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  Far, far ahead of the rest of the field - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By RDW - September 29 - 2:50 pm

  After researching and test driving 15 cars, including the BMW 530, MB E350, Cadillac STS, Lincoln MKZ, and Hyundai Azera, I purchased the Avalon Limited. Unlike most of its competition, the Avalon Limited is available with desirable features, such as a first-class stereo and seat heaters, without absurdly complex car controls or having to purchase overpriced nonsense like DVD navigation systems to get other features. Car may be the most silent available, & can comfortably seat five U.S.-sized adults. Roofline is high enough to accommodate six-foot-plus drivers and passengers, even with the moon roof. Acceleration is smooth and quiet, and the controls are logical and well laid out.

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  4 Great Years - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By ownerofavalon - September 24 - 2:00 am

  This has been a great car. Weve extended the lease to wait for the 2005 Avalon which is scheduled for spring. Never needed a repair after 60,000 miles (other than tires). Love the room and the ride. Plenty of power. Good gas mileage with regular gas.