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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  Used Toyota Good Value? - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By cyberdeviant - August 30 - 3:23 pm

  Ok first off this isnt my car, its my fathers, I am in transition to a new car and drive this car to and from school (100 mile commute) This car is reliable and has a near smooth ride but thats all it has going for it. The thing rattles like no other car Ive owned. This includes the dash, all 4 doors, seats make squeaky noise, center console rattles when stopped. The one thing I like about it is the stereo is decent but any louder than normal voice volume and the doors rattle insistently. This car rattles more than my old 89 Toyota pickup 4x4. The car (when purchased) had an oil jelling problem and luckily it was a recall and Toyota fixed it no charge. Thought Toyota lasted but not this car.

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  Nice car - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By megan03 - August 30 - 2:38 am

  Purchased 12/1. Great car. Awesome stereo. Got the Moulin Rouge with the Almond interior.....very difficult to find, dealer had to locate it. Curious as to why the Touring model they dealer swapped for this one had Michelins but my Limited model has Bridgestones? This car feels more luxurious and has more space in it than the Cadillax XTS I drove and much better and smoother performance. Also looked at the ES350 which actually feels cheap compared to this car.

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  Re-toyota - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By kydna42406 - August 27 - 11:30 pm

  Owned previous model 2004 xls. Upon the redesign traded for 2005. No real quality issues for the new model with the exception of the radio door sticking. Needs minor adjustment. Brakes are a bit sluggish with heavy humidity on first stop. Other wise no issues on the first 16000 miles. Comfort, features, gas mileage, all wonderful. Heat and air seats, two thumbs up!

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  100000 miles and running - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Toolofsociety - August 24 - 10:00 am

  The first striking thing about the toyota avalon is the spacious interior. It has a lot of room for both the back seats and the front.The car is somewhat lacking in the design in the interior, however. It is somewhat dull and not extraordinarly exciting. This is compensated for by the engine. The very same engine of the Lexus E 300 and even after 100,000 miles on mine it still runs absolutely perfectly. The car is by far the smoothest car Ive ridden in. And if you want a good, reliable, smooth and classic car, look into the Toyota Avalon. Its really worth it. I mean, honestly, who goes online to write a review about a car unless they really like it?

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  Toyota Avalon-not just for the silver set anymore - 2015 Toyota Avalon
  By m bock - August 21 - 2:58 am

  We have had exceptional luck with our Toyota cars, as theyve lasted 300k+ miles. We started looking at Camrys for our 21 year old daughter. But once she saw the inside of an Avalon, there was no other choice for her. She LOVES the styling, and there are all sorts of tech features that she cant live without. According to her, few people over age 55 could take advantage of all the technology (but they can still drive it!). As a marketing and animation major, she has a real eye for design, and this car won hands down over many others.

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  F-150 and Tundra ride much better - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By nomotoy - August 19 - 5:14 am

  My chiropractor suggests a different car. At 8K miles the rattles are popping up all over. Empty car seat, controls, my flesh and my clothes shake and vibrate (sometimes violently) if the road isnt perfectly smooth. The "fuel mgmt system" allows one to drive less than 350 mi before refueling even tho there is still >100 miles fuel on board. e.g. all four displays reporting the need for fuel must be ignored and I have to go by the odometer. Dealer & Toyota say that cant be changed. "Dist to empty" = 0 really means >100 miles to empty. Brake Assist feature is truly dangerous in heavy traffic. I happen to be strong enough to press my own brakes but Toyota knows better than I!

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  I love my Avalon XLS! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Gwen - August 18 - 9:33 pm

  This is the first time that I have owned this type of vehicle. It is a lot of fun to drive, climate controls are easy to read, the vehicle handles well on the road. Engine acceleration is quick to respond. The JBL system with 12 speakers gives you that luxurious sound and feeling. No mechanical problems to date. I really enjoy driving this vehicle.

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  Better than your average bear - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Better than your ave - August 18 - 3:56 pm

  Very pleasant highway car. A little large for personal preference. Navigation system could be easier to use.

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  Love this car - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By JBK - August 18 - 2:00 am

  The wife and I spent several months looking at cars. After testing driving the dealers Avalon03 demo, we both wanted the Avalon. It has more room than the ES300 handles as good if not better, plus is much cheaper. Some reviews have said this car is slow. Ours is very fast and seems to be getting good mileage on the Hwy. This car is a pleasure to drive.

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  The Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Lenny - August 16 - 6:00 pm

  One week after buying my Avalon, I had to drive 5 1/2 hrs to attend a funeral. I found the Avalon to be a wonderful car to drive on a highway. The feel of the road, the gas consumption and the comfort of the seats were far above my expectations. I have broken my back once and neck twice and just had my R shoulder replaced and I was able to adjust my seat for total comfort. Im looking forward to another trip.