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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  1st Toyota - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Big Blue - May 28 - 4:56 am

  I really like the car. I bought a 2002 with most of the extras, moon roof, heated seats, 16" wheels etc The radio with the JBL is great. On the highway I get great miledge but not too good in the city.

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  Vehicle performance and comfort - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Edwin G Westman - May 28 - 3:06 am

  Since I purchased this vehicle back in Nov 99, I have never had a serious problem with the vehicle. I service it according to the manufacturers book, not the dealers. Vehicle runs smooth and quiet. Seat comfort is great. Have a small back problem and my previous vehicles always gave me a problem; however, the Avalon, no problem. On the exterior design I gave it a 7 because I do not like the exhaust system hanging low on the vehicle. I notice this on a lot of Toyotas. Other than that, I love the vehicle.

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  Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Anthony Libretti - May 25 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Avalon, trading in aa 2000 Avalon with 46000 miles. This car has the weight, stability and the easy of handling that I like in a vehicle. In addition, it is a modern, yet of a conservation design which is attractive and could be traditional for a long time. We treat it like a baby.

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  Love the 2005 - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By CChappell - May 22 - 11:56 pm

  This is my 4th Avalon and it is clearly the best. Handling is much smoother and you get more features for the money. The new engine provides quicker acceleration to negotiate in heavy traffic. Best year by far!

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  Sold on Avalon - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By MJD - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I didnt like its looks at first, but I wanted a safe car for my wife. I have been very surprised with the quality of this car and it rides and handles well. Ive driven trucks and SUVs my whole life so this is a small car to me but its very comfortable.

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  A lot of " bang" for not too many Bucks. - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Karl Meier - May 21 - 8:10 am

  Sleek looking car inside & out. Styling should not become "dated" for many years. Road noise is much lower than youd expect for a car costing a lot less than $65K. Rider comfort is lacking almost nothing with the ventilated seats and rear seat back adjustment. And the leg room in the rear is almost equal to a full sized Deville. The ride is a bit on the "soft" side and could be "tightned" a bit. The old American idea of driving your living room down the highway as the epitome of luxury has hopfully passed. Two customers of mine have just bought Avalons and they are as pleased with their choice as I am. Toyota has a luxury car here with a "not quite" a luxury price

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  Couldve been the best - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By Garth McBride Sr - May 20 - 1:18 am

  Love the car, but, couldve really been better. For driving modes, why cant the driving mode remain in the position you push it in even after you leave the car and return. Only remains in the position for "normal", for sport and eco you have to punch it every time you enter the car and start the engine. I like sport cant it just stay there. After 36,000 miles brakes are a little jittery at stops. Should be smooth. Doesnt ride smooth like my 2006 Avalon but thats OK we were warned and the 2006 was too cushy. If you want the 2006 ride buy a Buick. LED headlights and daytime running lights should be standard on all except the Premium. Add a spoiler to the "Touring" as the 2006 thru 10 had!!! Bluetooth sometimes goes from on mode to off mode for some reason, just once in a while but cant figure that out just annoying when it goes into Bluetooth off in the middle of a call on I-95 or 76! Pretty good car for the money but couldve been great. It better stay reliable though. A lot of other choices out there for similar money. I am a Toyota/Lexus guy but can you say, Hyundai Genesis Sedan 3.6!! This is a 2013 and this model is about halfway thru the cycle before the new version. Enough facts are in so they should be able to straighten out the kinks if they (Toyota) is willing.

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  Avalon - Best Car Ive Ever Owned! - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Canyoncat - May 18 - 2:00 am

  The best car I ever owned! Never a problem. Consistently hits 30-32 MPG on the highway and 22 city.

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  Great value - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Rob C - May 14 - 8:53 pm

  I recently purchased this 2008 Avalon XL and I have been very satisfied with it. This vehicle accelerates and handles adequately despite this being a mid-large size sedan. Im also very surprised but equally impressed with the overall fuel mileage that this vehicle is getting (avg. 29 mpg). The interior cabin is very quiet and is theres plenty of room for up to five people to sit comfortably.

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  Excellent - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By PRINCESSDIAZ - May 10 - 5:10 pm

  This is a wonderful car for either a single person or a family. Very roomy and has a lot of space to work with.