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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  I love it! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Albert Bigelow - May 10 - 7:23 am

  Detailed like a Lexus but not as pricey. A significant improvement over my 2000 Avalon. Limited version has ventilated seats which are great for long drives. Navigation system has voice-activation, but the operation isnt always that intuitive.

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  Great Ride - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Dan Barrett - May 10 - 1:20 am

  Exceptional vehicle, it is a solid 12 on a 10 point scale. No disappointments, just a pleasant ride, excellent performance and good fuel economy.

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  Impressive - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By apricot - May 8 - 9:13 pm

  I traded in a 2001 Chrysler 300 for this vehicle and have only made one 1000 mile trip (Smoky Mtns.) so far, but I am very impressed with all aspects of the car. It is a more refined car than the Chrysler and very enjoyable to drive. It is quiet, quick, roomy and has a very nice ride without sacrificing handling. I had read complaints about the harsh ride on the Touring edition, but I disagree. It definitely rides better than my 300 did. I got just over 31mpg on the road on the trip to the Smokies which gives you a cruising range of around 550 miles! As with any review, I suggest you consider what the reviewer is comparing the car to - in this case a 2001 Chrysler 300.

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  Great Car but... - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By jpaul5 - May 8 - 3:24 pm

  2013 Avalon Limited with every option. I really enjoy my Avalon. I would put it at 4 out of five stars for about every category. Overall, this car represents value for the money. It is sporty yet refined, pretty fun to drive if you never push the limits and has enough technology built in. It has its faults like every car and Toyota. Its no sports car. And for a Toyota I am not impressed with the build quality. Surprising problems with a falling headliner and rattling door with the stereo playing. I havent had the rear view or dash glare problems that some have complained about. I mostly think those are bogus. Toyotas Entune works sporadically with my iPhone 4 and I am disappointed with it

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  Great Buy - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By David Morgan - May 8 - 10:00 am

  I just bought the Toyota Avalon for $29,000. The Avalon rides very well and handles great. The Avalon is very comportable and has tons of leg room with the best leather. Buy Toyota

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  Overall a good car, with one issue - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By baratis1 - May 6 - 12:13 am

  Had it built about 2 months ago. I got the red with tan interior. I am completely satisfied with the buy apart from one issue, as stated above. The suspension is rock hard. Im not entirely sure ill be able to put up with it forever. My previous car was a 2003 subaru outback. The subaru was MUCH more comfortable and also had better handling. A 41,000 dollar car like this should be MORE comfortable than a 22,000 dollar subaru thats 10 years older. The suspension really is unfortunate. I also feel somewhat cramped in this car. My outback was very open and didnt have quite as much legroom, but it had tons of headroom and hiproom. Thats something this car doesnt have.

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  Great Car Until I Lost All of My Oil - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim - May 5 - 12:20 am

  The engine oil line (rubber hose) ruptured unexpectedly. I lost all of my oil. The mechanic is hopeful that the engine wasnt damaged. However, this is something that should never happen to a modern car. Toyota may be the new GM/Chrysler. Reliability sells. Unreliability gets you out of the auto business.

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  my opinion - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By leonid - May 3 - 9:53 pm

  I have it olmost 2years and i like it very mutch.everything is fine, the only thing I can think of: beter tires.

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  Disappointment - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By jamjchir - April 30 - 2:15 pm

  I am on my fifth and possibly last Toyota. The changes they have made have all been a huge disappointment. Toyota changed the navigation and it is a huge step backwards. We have only had the car for three weeks and are looking to sell it already. It is a beautiful car but not worth the price. Car has too much technology and makes it complicated to use.

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  Affordable Luxury - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By CWR - April 30 - 2:00 am

  Extremely quiet, smooth and handles very well on mountain roads. Perfectly adequate power and excellent mileage for a vehicle of this size and weight. Literally service free except for oil and lube since purchase. Nice interior design, especially the dash.