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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  So great I did it again! - 2015 Toyota Avalon
  By Gerald Cox - November 29 - 6:00 am

  The comfort and quiet plust new features make me glad I bought my 2nd Avalon.

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  No Regrets - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Suzanne - November 25 - 9:43 am

  Being the kind of person who looks for a good balance of performance, reliability, styling and luxury for a reasonable price, I settled on the Avalon. From day one of owning this car, there has never had a doubt in my mind that it was the right vehicle to achieve that balance. This has not been the case in prior vehicle purchases, and certainly not with the 300M I came from. No comparison. I selected the Touring trim, as I couldnt justify paying a lot more a few extra features (push-button start, rain-sensing wipers) that I really dont need. I miss the heated seats in Minnesota, but the car is black, so it works. This is a car that I know I will keep for many years to come.

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  1998 avalon - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By nonfib - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This has been the most reliable car I have ever owned. Aside from the road noise, there has not been a complaint about the car in the five years we have owned it.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim Bob T - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned in 40 years. My next cara will be an Avalon by Toyota. I have two friends that have purchased an Avalon after riding in mine.

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  Great car for the money - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By happy owner - November 18 - 11:40 am

  Traded an 01 Cadillac DTS for my first for my first foreign car (built in Kentucky!) and have been very happy. Excellent performance, 0 to 60 in under 7 sec,and averaging 29 mpg on highway on regular. Just returned from a 4000 mile trip and got 35 mpg on a 55 mph strip. Thats as good as my daughter got on her 95 Civic coupe. The Caddy got 15 in town and only 24 max on the road. The Avalon has much better acceleration too. I also expect to get much better resale value than the Caddy.

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  First Class - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By thomas thole - November 15 - 8:06 am

  This is no doubt the finest all around car I have ever owned. I just sold my Cadillac 2001 DTS and am buying my 2nd Avalon Limited. My 1st one was delivered 4/18.

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  My 2006 Avalon Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By ROBG9 - November 13 - 6:53 am

  This is my third consecutive Avalon. First 1995 second 2000 and present 2006. I find the Avalon to be a safe, reliable and comfortable car. Guests who ride in the car for the first time always comment on the design and interior room, luxury and comfort. If my present Avalon proves to be as reliable as my previous ones then I will be buying another when that time comes.

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  Greatest Car Ever - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Yurka - November 12 - 4:53 pm

  This is the best car that Ive seen on the market in years. It has a 215 horsepower engine that just blasts thru roads and highways. My friend owns a 96 prelude and he says that he will burn me in a quarter mile race. After we found a cop free zone. We started a steet race he got a 19.6 I got a 15.7 in the quarter that shut him up real bad.

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  Delightful Surprise - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By cwlgal - November 9 - 3:00 am

  I traded a 2004 Lexus ES 330 on the 2005 Avalon. The Avalon is larger, more powerful, and is demonstrating better fuel economy; without a doubt, its considerably faster. The Avalon is much more comfortable than the Lexus in both ride quality and seating. In my opinion, youre paying less money and getting more value. Also, you continue to be spoiled by Toyotas bullet-proof quality, whats not to like?

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  Great Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike - November 5 - 4:56 pm

  Great car so far. Would like 8 way power seat on passenger side. License plate is attached to plastic bumper, not metal and the hole is easily torn. The radio is not equal to the Bose system. Otherwise great car for the money.