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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  99 Avalon Review - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By 1999Toyota Avalon - August 14 - 2:40 am

  This 99 Toyota Avalon has been a joy to own. I purchased it with 29,000 miles. In the 1 1/2 years that I have owned this vehicle I have experienced a wonderful ride, no problems and great to handle. I am very satisfied with my Toyota.

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  GREAT BUY!! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Morris - August 11 - 10:00 am

  smooth as silk. Ulta comfortable. Beats the price of Lexus.

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  Avalon Ltd. 3.5 Years Later - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Steve Coleman - August 8 - 10:53 am

  I have been surprised by this car. Good - Excellent fuel mileage (25 city, 30-31 hwy), comfort, luxury looks and feel. Bad - Intermediate steering shaft problem (outside wrty at 45K mi., transmission jerkiness (fixed by toyo with a reprogramming, $0), $900 repair est. (I declined to fix), check engine lite (50k mi, $1500 repair bill), now the poss. oil line leak repair before failure (repair cost unk.?). Also, watch out for dealers selling Toyota warranties that are not favorably received by other dealer in other states (SE Toyo dealers vs Midwest dealers).

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  Avalons Rule - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Cody - August 7 - 5:16 am

  Traded from a MB E-class. Every bit as comfortable and has been rock solid. Gas mileage runs between 25 and 30 consistantly. Exceptionally comfortable as a cruiser.

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  Best kept secret in luxury sedans - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By jwoodruff - August 3 - 1:13 pm

  This is our 4th Toyota in the past 2 years. All have been extremely dependable, just routine oil changes, get great gas mileage, and I think, some of the best looking cars on the road. Also, the interiors of all the cars are beautiful and functional. This is an important part of my car buying requirements. Im a true blue American, but nobody beats the quality of the Toyota products.

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  Awesome Car! - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Dave C - August 3 - 1:20 am

  I really like this car! It is my first Toyota, but not my last one. Id buy another Avalon in a heartbeat. I have always been a big car guy and this small car measures up in roominess and comfort. Good gas mileage too.

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  Plenty of Room - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Giving-back - July 29 - 2:00 am

  This is a quality automobile. We have had the car only one month but so far it is everything we expected and then some. There is a specific reason we purchased the Avalon. ROOM. I am a taller person and have a problem with any automobile with a moon roof. Most upscale automoblies come with a moon roof as standard equipment. I therefore could not purchase a Lexus, Acura etc. The Avalon XL we purchased has many luxury options but does not have a moon roof and therefore has plenty of head room. I might also say that the bench seat is very comfortable for the passenger as well as anyone in the back seat.

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  Fantastic Family Car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By mom_of_three3 - July 28 - 1:04 am

  We bought this car used (5 yrs old, in 2005)when I was 6 months pregnant with our first child. Weve had NO issues with it at all. Weve replaced one battery and two sets of wiper blades in the 5 1/2 years weve owned it, and it now has 210K on it. Its incredible, really. Its no longer when parked beside any other typical sedan (my in-laws had an Acura 3.2TL) but my mind finds it hard to understand where all the space inside comes from! My 6 tall husband can sit in the back seat with the front seats all the way back and his knees dont touch the front seats-we love that the backseat isnt just for the kids. Definately room for everyone in here!

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  Premium Car Price Without Premium Ride, Quietness or Seat Comfort - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By gemigniani1 - July 24 - 7:21 pm

  2013 Avalon does not not feel like a $35,000 premium sedan. The ride is busy because even small road imperfections are felt and heard. Theres no sound insulation under the carpets or in the doors so the road noise level is high like being in a Corolla. The front seat bottoms are small in size and thinly padded. So my seat bottom gets sore after only 20 miles of highway driving. The only "premium" car qualities that the 2013 Avalon has are rock solid directional stability on the highway, a smooth, quiet and responsive engine and transmission, and a fairly luxurious looking and feeling interior.

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  Love it - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By brian miller - July 22 - 9:23 am

  Its a very comfortable and fun vehicle to drive. We love this car! This car is equipped with lots of leg room. Three large adults can ride comfortably in the Avalon.