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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  Awesome car - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By wilk - April 23 - 6:59 pm

  I purchased my 2013 Avalon XLE Premium 6 weeks ago. I selected the metallic black with tan interior. I have gotten a lot of comments from friends, valets, and doorman on the car. They are blown away with the look and feel of the car inside and out. I commute 50 miles a day and now love my commute. Traded in a 2004 Nissan Maxima LS. While it was a great car it does not even come close to the style quality and performance of my Avalon. I am a true believer and could not be happier with my Avalon!

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  Well built car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By shyam - April 20 - 8:40 pm

  Well built car. Very smooth and responsive. Has sufficient gadgets inside to play around. This car is worth the money.

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  What a car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jimmu - April 20 - 1:30 pm

  I really wanted a car with very simple features and not too complicated to use. This is the car that I have been looking for. I have test drove Acura TL and Lexus ES330, but I have found Avalon to be the car that fits my taste. Simply you dont need to read manual to operate the vehicle and it is that simple to use.

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  What Is Up? - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By JD - April 19 - 1:56 pm

  I have had this car for 15 months. It is my first and last Toyota. I have been driving a Cadillac for a few years and tried something different. It is different allright but not good. In snow and ice this thing is dangerous. My FWD Caddy with traction and stabilitrack was great. This Toyota is a white knuckler,it must not snow in Japan! The seats in this car are a joke! I cannot get comfortable no matter how I adjust- I think they are too short. The GPS is so hard to use that I dont try anymore. I had it in my old car it was EZ. I like to take care of my cars and the paint on this car is junk. You cannot get a blk. car to shine? The dash rattles, my sunroof rattles and it drives me crazy.

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  The Good and Bad... mostly Good - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By IrvineGuy - April 15 - 10:00 am

  This car excels in being reliable, dependable, and performance. It has good visibility with no measurable blind spots. Seats seem to be made for smaller framed people. Feels like Im sitting on a stool. Right elbow doesnt reach the armrest in the drivers position. I rated the quality a 7, even though I think the engine quality is excellent, the exterior quality of the metal is weak. A slight tap on the panels will create a dent.

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  Best car I have ever owned - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By sharon McElravy - April 13 - 4:26 pm

  I have purchased a new car ever 2 to 3 years since 1974, and this is the best one yet. The cost was a little bit more than I usually spend, but I feel it was well worth it. It handles great, has a great appearance inside and out. Everthing is at your finger tips, you dont have to reach around for things. There is only one thing that I would change; there is not a good place to put your cell phone or to charge it while driving. Other than that I would not change a thing.

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  Options I can do without - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By cpo8usn - April 13 - 9:30 am

  I just picked up my 2006 Avalon limited last friday. Ive got a whopping 52 miles on it right now. It was the dealers show piece at the dealership and at the local mall during the recent Presidents holiday weekend. With 52 miles under my belt, all I can say is its quite, comfortable, powerful and good looking. Its loaded with everything, however this is where the rub comes in. I really could have done without the Laser cruise control, remote engine start, and blizzard white which would have saved me something around $1100 - $1400. So if your not an anxious buyer and can tune out the hype, order what you want and save.

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  Nice car. - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By buyer - April 6 - 10:43 pm

  This car is nice. We bought the XLS model 2001, and very happy w/ it. People keep on comparing this car to the Lexus model, however, I think for the price it maybe a better buy.

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  Great Car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Kai - April 4 - 7:13 pm

  Ive only had the car for 2 days and Im very satisfied with it. The leather seats are outstanding and the ride is just comfortable. Ive had a 1997 camry for a year and it does not ride nearly as well. The camry has lots of body roll and the Avalon does not (It has a firmer suspension).

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  THE BEST BUY FOR AUTOMOBILES IN 2006 - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By A J PIROLLO - April 2 - 2:16 am

  I own and have owned cars that cost 2 and a half times as much as this Avalon and none provided a smooth ride as this one does. The comfort factor is amazing. Getting into this car with a winter overcoat on is no longer a feat nor is it constricting. The dashboard is extremely well lit and easy to read..The controls are easily accessible. This large car seems to go and go without having to stop to continually refuel. I am most pleased with this product. It has to be the Best Buy of 2006 for all of the amenities that were included that others seek extra dollars for.