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 1511 through 1520 of 1,746.00-
Second Toyota/More to Come - 1998 Toyota Avalon
By patoconnor - April 22 - 9:10 pmTraded an 87 Toyota Cressida on the 98 Avalon. The Cressida was still an excellent car, but husband wanted front-wheel drive after we moved to Denver. The Avalon, though not as sexy as the Cressida, has been rock-solid, comfy to drive, love the extra room afforded by column-shift, great power, perfect for long drives, smooth, no maintenance issues.
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but one thing - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By chasjoret - April 22 - 10:00 amthe only thing I can say wrong is the front bucket seats dont have enought padding. On a long trip they get very unconfrontable.
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Well satisfied - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Siskiyoublue - April 21 - 9:50 pmBought this car in March. The more I drive the Avalon the more I like the car. I added the navigation system and put on mud guards and side moldings. Installed satellite radio which is heaven. No more ads.
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Won over - 2013 Toyota Avalon
By sullivan3 - April 21 - 9:36 amI bought the Avalon Touring XLE model in March 2013. Initially, I was a bit disappointed in the quality of the ride. I thought there was too much road feel. This October, I drove it to Ohio and Indiana from Florida. It performed amazingly and I am now smitten with this machine. I really enjoy driving it and on a smooth road, it is terrific. I am averaging nearly 30 mpg . My driving is all at 60mph where I live . No regrets on this purchase.
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Dont Like the Seats! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By The Olsens - April 18 - 6:10 pmThe front seats are enough to make me want to sell this car. I cant get comfortable. And the car is much noisier on dirt roads and rough roads here in Iowa than my previous Buick. Im not very impressed. My son told me about this Avalon and said it was an excellent car. I guess he didnt drive it. I have, and I dont like it very much.
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A Great Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Sandy Funk - April 18 - 2:16 amThe car has been operating flawlessly. A real winner... everything I have come to expect from Toyota.
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Great Car - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By eshifrin - April 16 - 4:20 pmVery good car. Solid build, fuel economic is about 25 miles per gallon.
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Honest revue - 2014 Toyota Avalon
By lennie falcon - April 11 - 10:54 pm -
Only 1000 miles - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By P W K - April 9 - 10:06 pmAvalon Touring - Rides a little hard. Handles well. Large interior. Lots of room in both front and rear. Rear seated passengers are very comfortable. The V-six engine gives the vehicle power if and when you need it. Fuel: Vehicle only has 1000 miles. Dealer recommended Regular. Getting about 16 MPG in city and about 24 MPG on highway driving. Going to switch to a higher octaine. Toyota factory representative and Owners Manual recommends high test for max fuel performance. Next refueling, switching to high test. Large Capacity Trunk.
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My Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By delaina - April 7 - 6:06 pmI upgraded from a Camry to an Avalon and with two kids and husband there is plenty of room for all of us. When driving this car there is little or no road noise. I love it.
