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:
Showing 131 through 140 of 1,746.00-
Toyota Avalon XLS - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By TomR - April 1 - 11:33 amAfter 54 years of marriage, and ownership of at least 13 cars, this is the first one that my wife truly loves!
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A Lexus in Toyota Clothing - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By chas - March 28 - 2:00 amA limited budget kept me from buying another LS 400, so I swallowed my pride and looked at the Avalon. The moment I started it up, I knew it was something special. After driving it, I pronounced it "a Lexus masquerading as a Toyota". I decided on the fully loaded XLS. It differs very little from the Lexuses in quality and overall driving experience.
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a nice car but - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By qq - March 28 - 2:00 amIt is a nice car with plenty of room But the tire is too small compare with the huge body. Its like a huge man wear a tiny shoe.
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A Lexus in Toyota Clothing - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By Chas - March 28 - 2:00 amA limited budget kept me from buying another LS 400, so I swallowed my pride and looked at the Avalon. The moment I started it up, I knew it was something special. After driving it, I pronounced it "a Lexus masquerading as a Toyota". I decided on the fully loaded XLS. It differs very little from the Lexuses in quality and overall driving experience.
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Avalon is a bargain - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By I.barr - March 27 - 2:06 pmMy Avalon has all the amenities of my Lexus 430 that I leased. This is not a "sexy" car but a workhorse. It has every gadget in town and 23MPG on highway and 19MPG city winter driving on regular gas.
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The Best Full Size Car For The Money - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By Robert Dye - March 22 - 10:00 amMoving form a performance oriented BMW to the more serene Avalon took a little bit of an adjustment. But I needed room to carry three adults and one child. The Toyota Avalon more than fills that need and does it in a level of comfort never expereinced with the Beemer. All the bells and wistles, and a powerplant that is Lexus quality. This car is hard to beat.
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Original Owner - 1997 Toyota Avalon
By carfooey - March 20 - 7:16 amFew mechanical problems until recently. Within last year replaced rear wheel bearings, engine gasket, & alternator. Marginal paint job as it started peeling from around rear view mirrors at <80K miles. Strut noise has been there from day 1 off the lot (dealer made excuses too). Doors sagged quite early on, but work okay. Door remotes still work (!) although the buttons are about shot.
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Nice Ride - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By Nice Ride - March 15 - 11:13 amI was reluctant to trade in my 03 Tahoe, but rising gas prices caused me to look at something more efficient. Advertised city mileage of 22 mpg appears to be about right. This is not in my opinion a mid size sedan. This car is roomy and comfortable, something my mom would drive. But dont get me wrong, this is not a mom car. Sporty look, smooth ride, minimal road noise. I no longer regret trading the SUV.
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A True Touring Sedan - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By stargazerm31 - March 11 - 10:00 amIf you are looking for a comfortable commuting car that provides a smooth ride and comfortable seats and a great stero, this is it. 80 miles a day 48 weeks a year and it makes it seem effortless. Reliability has been supurb.
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Avalon - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By JBarlo - March 4 - 10:00 amOur Avalon has 27000 miles. Its a great car. Plenty of room, great back seat, and a huge trunk. Plenty of power, and good on gas. Rides very smooth. Only had 2 problems. Breaks pulsating. Which is common for Avalons. And wood grain lifting from summer heat. Wish the outside looked as good as the inside. You get a lot of car for the money. But dont be fooled. It is not a Lexus. It doesnt ride like one or handle like one. Test drive the Volvos and Audis then compare the Avalon. Youll see the Avalon is a much better.
