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 my avalon - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By i love my avalon! - June 22 - 10:50 pm

  I have owned this car for a few months and I love it already. It rides beautifully and is very classy. Also this is a very strong and solid car, I was hit by a large pickup truck and there was minimal damage. I have a lot of faith in this car. I am very glad I bought it.

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  Despite shortcomings a great value - 2018 Toyota Avalon
  By James rydwr - June 22 - 4:28 am

  No navigation system to speak of, voice commands dont work most of the time, audio system lacks intuitive controls. Acceleration, handling, comfort and climate control all work well despite poor Dash layout. Salesman was reluctant to discuss the cars audio and navigation operation probably because of past complaints and frustrations. In fact its probably no coincidence that they didnt even give me the book on the navigation and audio system

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  Toyota Losing Touch - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By 4thToyota - June 17 - 2:00 am

  This was my 4th Toyota, and a real dog. Extremely poor design, fit and finish. Interior body panels coming apart (have never seen that in any vehicle). Heavy driver side door pulled the hinge screw off the chassis! Brakes failed at 30,000 miles. etc. etc. Also avoid Montclair Acura, they had the gall to ask for $880 for a set of 4 tires!

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  Lexus w/o the price tag - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Paul - June 11 - 12:23 pm

  The new avalon hits the mark of serious comfort and sports car. The new v6 has exceptional power. The interior design w/ computer display along with the hide-a-way stereo, cup, and cassette player just adds more of sleekness. The dual exhaust just says "come on and try to pass me"! The mpg is another big hit. You get a high powered 268 horse pwr engine that gets 32 mpg. Not to mention it only takes regular unleaded gas. In this day in age where gas prices are more than $2.15 a gallon that is a real perk. If you like luxury w/o the big price tag this is a car you cant go wrong with. Its also healthy to say the Avalon retains its value whole the better than other cars in the same market.

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  poor back up camera - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By keneg1 - June 8 - 8:49 am

  I purchased my 2011 with 32,000+ miles. the backup camera doesnt show evenly on the navigation screen. It isnt centered on the screen. The dealer told me after I drove it off the lot that all 2011s have this. "It is on all the 2011s". Ive asked the dealer 5 weeks ago to drive another 2011 to see if that car has the same problem. So far, he said he hasnt had one to test. If anyone has this problem, please coment. Thank you.

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  Third Avalon - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By spencer327 - June 7 - 2:33 am

  Owned 2000, 2003 now 2008 XLS. Only concern going in was the transmission. Since the 6speed replaced the 2007 5 speed I decided to go for it. So far the 2008 excels over the 2003 in almost every respect (trunk has slightly less usable space).

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  A KILLER CAR - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Gregory - June 5 - 10:10 pm

  Just picked up my new Limited 4 days ago. This is my third Avalon. I tooled around with getting the ES 330 and the IS 350, but this car really has got the room and ride without spending the money on a LS430 to get it. Gorgeous interior design and fit and finish. My friends who are seeing it are flipping out!!!!A lot of value for the money.

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  Best of the Best ...Silent Screamer - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By werewa - June 5 - 10:00 am

  This is my favorite car

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  review - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By zazmau - June 4 - 3:36 am

  Bought it from a dealer with 1800 miles on it. In the shop for a rack and pinnion (?) and an oil leak and two windows stopped working. Both times $1000.+. Routine maintenance other than that. Not bad for over 200,000 miles in nine years. Always starts right up. Currently getting 30mpg hwy, 27mpg normal driving. Cup holders work fine for me. I only use the back seat for stuff. Wood grain areas sun damaged and peeled off. I am 53" with short legs so the seat length is too long for me and hits in the calf of the legs.I use a back cushion to keep me forward in the seat. Mechanic says the oxygen sensor needs replaced and I would get better mpg. How much better can it get? I will get 300,000 miles out of it.

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  Major improvements - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By George - May 30 - 8:06 am

  Ive had the Avalon Ltd since Feb 14 2005. Even though the styling is much improved over previous years its still not a head turner. The interior is fantsatic. Roomy Quiet and has some great features such as heated/ventilated ft seats, 360 watt stereo w/6cd in dash changer, hid headlights, etc. Great performance and gas milage combination when the engine is warm And using premium fuel. With 1300 miles on it Im at 24mpg. With past vehicles the gas milage should be 18-20mpg for that level of performance. I would buy another one if I had to do it again. Oh yeah, its fun to drive. I look for places to go just so I can drive it some more.