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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  Great Car- People Impressed! - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By erika - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Everyone is impressed with the interior of the car- it is very roomy and sleek and tall men fit in the front and/ or the back comfortably! Pretty car- with a nice quiet engine- but fast and fun to drive. Good safety features. Luxury car at an affordable price!

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  All you need to do is change the emblem! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Stan Tomberg - November 27 - 12:20 pm

  If you remove the Toyota emblems and replaced them with Lexus IDs no one would notice! The steering wheel is identical to my friends Lexus LS. The back seat is larger. It as close to a Lexus LS that I had, than any other car I have been in. The gas mileage is great, especially for a car this size. 33 mpg hiway, 23 in town and on regular gas! I did not buy this car for economy but, for comfort and style. A bargain at the price. Compares favorably with cars costing under $50,000

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  Over 200K and still strong - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By Drew - November 25 - 8:00 pm

  My sister bought the car new in 97 and gave it to me last year. Today the car has a little over 200k. Theres no problem with the car except for the front right suspension which makes noise on bumpy roads (mentioned in other reviews).

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  New Owner - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By W.D. - November 22 - 10:00 am

  First foreign auto but I believe we got the pick of the litter. Had a Sedan Deville for several years and already the Avalon has made us forget about the luxury and performance of the Cadillac. Will want to give another review after subtantial number of miles are driven.

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  Luxury From Toyota - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Daniel Morthole - November 22 - 10:00 am

  The car has a very luxurious interior and the 2003 Avalon is even beter. The 2003 Avalon has a navigation system, mine didnt come, even as an option.

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  The Best Car Out There!! Period - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By ERazor - November 20 - 10:26 pm

  I buy them used and I replaced my 1995 Avalon with a 2003 Avalon. I will replace this one with another. If it ever wears out that is. They are the best cars that I have ever owned.

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  Exceptional - 2010 Toyota Avalon
  By p teig - November 20 - 10:36 am

  This is my second Avalon, my other was a 2007, and I am a committed Avalon owner. I am not sure why other reviews say the outside is bland, when I know my car receives a lot of head turns. Seriously, if you want a great car, solid construction, and durable, buy the Avalon.

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  Seat hurts - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By iceboss - November 19 - 6:40 pm

  The front seat hurts my back. Little lateral support and even with the lumbar support fully retracted, the seat protrudes into my lower back, making driving for more than a few minutes uncomfortable. The navigation system is unreliable. It cant compute the shortest or quickest distance. It cant find my house. It would have added an hour to a 9 hour trip I took had I believed it. It sometimes tells me to go three sides around a rectangular block instead of the direct line from point A to point B.

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  STS for 1/3 the $$$$$$$ - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By mrmose - November 17 - 9:10 pm

  Engine is fantastic, exterior is sleek, interior is good, but seats are not up to the rest of the car. Handling is wonderful, but ride could be a bit more smooth and comfortable. Gas mileage is very respectable with regular gas.

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  Blechhhhhh - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By B.B.Q. Houston - November 16 - 4:16 am

  Poooooor quality. Tailpipes off, engine growls and transmission problems from day one. Its been in and out of dealer for two months!!! My wife hates the seats in front. She says they are very uncomfortable. Plus, Toyota wont fix the darn transmission. They and dealer give me the runaround. Never again.