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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  Would buy another - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By zipcode21804 - July 17 - 4:13 am

  Traded my 2003 Seville, not disappointed at all. The gas mileage is great on regular gas. Nav system leaves a little to be desired, that message gets on your nerves every time you start the vehicle. Should be easier to program. Sound is good JBL did a fine job although I did a personal upgrade surround sound is a great feature, Cabin is tight noise and rattle free. I bought 3 caddys before I purchased my Avalon. When it comes to comfort, its a no brainer. Avalon wins; wheels down.

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  What a machine - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By freddy - July 16 - 10:00 am

  I am on my second Avalon and this one is better than the first if that is posible, It is quite, smooth, and very user freindly, I change cars every 12 months and unless someone comes up with something better then at this price it is a steal.

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  2013 Toyota Avalon Touring - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By billyboy6 - July 14 - 1:19 am

  Nice car for the money. Bought at CarMax in Laural, MD. They gave me $3000 off MSRP. Worth every penny~ Drove it back home to PA and avg 28 mpg on the trip. Avging 24 in mixed driving. Very sporty to drive, roomy, gorgeous interior, seats were a little hard but everything else was spot on. Love this car! I researched cars in the $33000 - $35,000 price range with NO cvt trannsmission and this was easily the best car in the price range. I test drove them all. The Honda Accord Touring was my 2nd fav.

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  Avalon Right On - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Willam Boyd - July 12 - 2:20 pm

  The Avalon has proven to be a well engineered sedan. Fit and finish are excellent. I get 29 to 31 mpg on the highway and 21 to 23 mpg in city/ suburban driving. The ride is firm yet bumps are not transmitted to the passengers. All controls are well thought-out. I am especially pleased with the navagation system. Toyota is right on with this excellent car. The transmission and engine provide a smooth flow of power under all conditions.

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  Almost Perfect - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Bulldog - July 9 - 1:46 am

  My 2005 Avalon Limited is proving to be the favorite family car. Were getting 24 MPG city and almost 28 MPG on the highway. When you start it in the morning it sounds like a diesel. The toyota dealer said this is the variable valve timing at work. Once it warms up, the noise disappears. Ride quality is flawless and comfort rivals Lexus vehicles Ive owned. In fact, Id call this a Lexus for $10- 15K less. I plan on keeping this car for quite awhile.

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  poor workmanship (interior) - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By S. Hendley - July 8 - 11:36 pm

  Poor workmanship with interior features... air control louvers (in dash) keep coming off track and wont allow for directional flow... wood inserts on arm rest coming unglued... control unit for climate, radio, etc. sticks and wont fully expand out for use. Also, the navigational system is below standard - voice guidance is limited - have been very displeased with its abilities when compared to other systems. This is my third toyota and have always been very pleased until now. Overall, the avalon limited has been an expensive disappointment.

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  avalon xls - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By jhb - July 7 - 10:00 am

  a pleasure to drive. very dependable car. has never let me down. my only wish would be for a little more power

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  One of the best cars ever - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Spudo - July 4 - 8:26 am

  I bought this car when it was 4 years old and already had 114,000 miles on it. It has been a great car, even 50,000 miles later. Runs like new. Love the power, MPG, comfort and reliability. Have had to do normal maintenance, tires, battery, brakes, fluid changes. The only mechanical issue was occasionally the throttle body will get gummed up and the car will start but not idle. Simple fix, remove the idle air regulator and clean it good with a q tip and carb cleaner. Did this myself in about an hour, no problems since. Great gas mileage, will get 31 mpg on flat highway at 55 miles her hour. Closer to 28-29 at 65-70. City around 21. Get the XLS, as it adds all the luxuries such as heated seats.

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  Perfection - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim - June 29 - 5:16 pm

  As a Toyota owner since 1974, I was amazed at the level of perfection achieved in the 2006 Avalon Limited! I have always been sold on the quality, reliability, and attention to detail that Toyota has always put into their cars (I have owned Celicas, Camrys, and Avalons). But this 2006 Avalon Limited EXCEEDS the perfection that Toyota has always put in their Lexuses! It is truly an amazing machine in every respect! The Laser-Guided Cruise Control is a pleasure to use and probably the greatest safety feature invented to date! The GPS-Guided Navigation System is always "right-on"! I would recommend the 2006 Avalon Limited to EVERYONE!!

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  Great Mileage, Comfort & Performance - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By tap777 - June 26 - 8:56 pm

  I went to the local dealership to buy the new 2007 Camry. However, they would not discount the car and they were offering $5k off on the 2006 Avalon. I test drove all versions of the Camry, and am replacing a 2001 Maxima SE. THIS CAR IS SO MUCH BETTER! I commute 120 miles a day. The car is very comfortable, has plenty of power and I am AVERAGING 26 MPG (75% hwy & 25% city). I have been as high as 28.5 on the highway. I also noticed that it is much quieter inside. I heard the GPS was not good so I purchased a car without it.