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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  2006 Avalon Touring - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By DUCKS - January 27 - 5:53 pm

  I bought this car almost three years ago. I decided to get the Touring because the handling felt better than the XLS. The color is silver and with the XLS the interior wood was orange. With the Touring, it was sliver. The seats are very comfortable and I get close to 30MPG on the highway.

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  A Smart Mans Lexus - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By He Dog - January 26 - 10:00 am

  I owned 2006 and 2010 Avalon Limiteds. The 2011 is bit better. I dont know why, but fuel mileage increased over 2010, but its a good thing. Pavement noises are pretty much absent. Riding over pavement irregularities is superb. Space, ergonomics, textures, panels, grains, and the like fit well, look, well, and are pleasing to the eye. Ive never purchased the navigation system. The engine and transmission are smooth. Heating, including the seats, and air conditioning are wonderful. Blizzard Pearl and the beige leather are fine color combinations. Low road and wind noise. I dont understand the "9" ratings for MPG, but at 75 MPH I get 34-35 on road. Needs more thing support.

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  2003 Toyota Avalon XLS - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By MSch0829 - January 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my third Toyota Avalon XLS. The car is very reliable!

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  My Wife Loves This Car - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By TX Toyota Owner - January 21 - 2:00 am

  This is the second Avalon weve owned (first one was a 98), and the 2003 is a much better car. The ride is very smooth, JBL speakers are worth the money, quality of car is excellent. One could pay more for a big 4 door, but why?! At least twice a month my wife comments on just how pleased she is to have this car & weve had it for a year. Its always great to hear that kind of feedback!

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  The Avalon--a Great Car - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Pollyclaire - January 19 - 10:00 am

  The only thing I dont like about my Avalon is the seat belts. They cut across my neck and are too tight. The back seat ones are especially bad.

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  SUV Alternative - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By C. Holland - January 19 - 4:40 am

  I helped my sister purchase a 2003 Avalon XLS which really impressed me. When my wife and I decided to upgrade our ride quality from a popular SUV, the Avalon was a logical choice. The Limited had comfort features we sought, in spades. The ride is exceptional, good gas mileage and neat appointments. The styling is really impressive and we are constantly getting positive comments from friends and strangers who love the blue color and tan leather interior. I honestly feel considering what you get in this car, power looks and reliability plus resale value, it is an excellent buy.

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  great - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By gokhan - January 15 - 2:00 am

  a perfect car. what can i say more. please beleave me. drive the car and enjoy your life

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  Very, Very, Very, NICE!!! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By bmwgoz - January 11 - 3:53 pm

  Its only been a week, but it was the right choice and gets better everytime I get behind the wheel. The wife wasnt involved with the purchse, but was flat out amazed and excited. Took a short trip today and highway cruzing was incredible. I highly recommend adding this vehicle to your list of test drives, it might change your mind. As american as any large sedan I have been in. My high reliability rating is based on it being a Toyota at this point, but I havent heard of mechanical issues with 2005, mostly cosmetic stuff.

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  Perfect for young driver - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By JJ - January 9 - 8:46 am

  I just turned 20 and Ive had the car for about 2 years. I have torn the hell out of the car and drove it like a bat out of hell. It always started up no matter what. Ive had two minor wrecks in the car. And had to drive it with several problems. But it just wont die. There is always plenty of room. My stepdad who is 6ft 3inches use to drive it all the time.

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  Waited 10 years - 2010 Toyota Avalon
  By tom - January 7 - 12:06 am

  Have a 2000 xls with 79,000 miles I bought new, and have been well satisfied. It is a great car. Found my current 2010 XLS with 9400 miles at a fair price with windows already tinted. Cocoa bean metallic/ ivory, lots of extras by original buyer. The wait was well worth it. Car is super quiet, solid, handles great, and gets great mileage 33mpg on road, 28 in town. Have gotten as high as 35mpg w/o the air. In my opinion, I like the Avalon better than the Lexus ES, its bigger, just as quiet, and more car for the money. Its a classy ride, big comfortable, and amazingly powerful for a v-6. Like the 2010 better than the 2011. 2011 has too much GORP, or chrome pieces to jazz it up!