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:

• 

  My Avalon - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Bettyboop/Betty - March 12 - 10:00 am

  I have been very pleased with this car. All Ive needed is my regular oil changes and just recently had to put on a new set of tires. The car looks like new (after a good wash which it gets about every other week). Mechanically, the car is in excellent condition. No problems at all.

• 

  This car just wont die! - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By davidvnyc - March 8 - 9:44 pm

  I purchased my 98 Avalon XLS in 2003 with 150,000 miles on it. At about 180k miles I changed the front two 02 sensors. At 220k miles I changed the timing belt (first time), water pump, struts and ball joints. Other than these item’s I’ve only had to do standard fluid changes, tires and brakes. About 2 years ago, I came too close to a guard rail and scraped the right side of the car. Because the car had 340k miles on it at the time, I chose not to spend the 600 to repair the damage. The car now just broke though 400k and while it doesn’t look as good as when I bought it, it still runs perfectly and zero operational issues. I have my eye on a new car, but my wife will not let me pull t

• 

  Avalon let down - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By CJB - March 6 - 6:46 pm

  The looks of this car were all that remains after less than a year 6 problems in the first year. Rain leaks, water from washer fluid leaks, tire sensors bad, no start twice, and a very strange shift pattern unless I drive like my grand mom. No fun car. Looks good but I expected more. Next time it is the Acura. Either I got a bad apple or the Toyota name is not all what is is hyped up to be.

• 

  Great car - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By Paul - March 5 - 8:20 am

  This is as nice a car as I ever need to own. The interior is roomy for its size. The ride is very comfortable, though it does not have a European road feel. The engine and transmission are very smooth and quiet. The interior is also quiet. I almost never requires repairs, mostly just routine maintenance.

• 

  Best Toyota that I have owned - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Chester - March 4 - 9:03 am

  This is my 8th Toyota and 2nd Avalon (last in 1996). Liked the way the car "sat". Like the comfort and interior "bells and whistles". I have never had a Toyota in during the initial warranty period. Luck I guess. I dont like the transmission trying to find the right gear at slow speeds, sometimes causing abruptness in the change of gears. Perhaps this is the nature of the beast with 5 forward. Everything else is absolutely first rate. Best Toyota yet!!!

• 

  Raymond Avalon I love it! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Raymond Coultas - March 3 - 11:23 am

  Of all the vehicles Ive ever owned I have enjoyed the Avalon Limited the best. Its comfortable, classy, and has all of the features I most enjoy in an automobile. I particularly enjoy the GPS tremendously.

• 

  Edmunds Wrong - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Lucas Boxley - February 27 - 10:00 am

  I love Edmunds but, how can you give the hard riding noisy Honda Accord 7.8 and give Avalon 7.3 the Honda cannot come close. I traded es350 a great car which was my fourth Lexus and I cannot be more pleased. This is the smoothest and quiet car on road yes there is body lean at times, but to those of us know and are not caught up in cornering and skid-pat testing who love real world driving this is a great car

• 

  Comfort, Value, Quality - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Panther Mike - February 23 - 2:00 am

  No problems with car at all. JBL stereo kicks butt. Smooth ride with plenty of power. Easily fit three adults (or car seats) in the back. Just a joy to own and drive.

• 

  My Avalon - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Roberto123 - February 18 - 10:00 am

  An excellent and dependable used car

• 

  I love it - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Trisheen - February 18 - 10:00 am

  It is the most luxurious car I just love driving it.