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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  OK, but... - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By bayverse - April 7 - 1:26 am

  I purchased the Avalon because I wanted near full-size comfort with reasonable fuel economy. Unfortunately, I am not as satisfied as I thought Id be. The ride is OK, and theres a grinding in the CVT transmission when first accelerating...blogs suggest thats an 05-06 Avalon characteristic. Bad. I have to get used to the CVT transmission too. Its always looking for the sweet spot and that hurts quick acceleration. Once if does find that spot, and after a pronounced lag, it issues relatively powerful performance. Interior is well thought out, but the seats belong in the Corolla. The trunk is tiny.

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  Best Car Ever - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Sherry701 - April 5 - 2:43 am

  Toyota, thank you for making my dream car come to life. This car is a head turner, people will stop you on the parking lot to ask about the car. I love this car, it is so smooth riding, turns on a dime. I love the signals on the mirrors, I love the feel of the leather seats, I love the sound system, love the wood trim, love the reclining back seats, love the nav system, the blue tooth. I love this car. I must say, even though I am not from the computer generation, the nav and blue tooth are simple to figure. I would buy one for each day of the week!

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  2005 Avalon Limited - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Bart - April 4 - 4:20 am

  This 2005 Avalon Limited is a new style with many new options. Many new drive assistance features on the multi- purpose screen. Turn signals incorporated in outside mirrors are great. New dash/gauges are easy to read. Great ride and performance with the 3.5L engine and 5 speed transmission with bump up or down gear shifting. Telescoping and tilt wheel are great. Heated and cooled seats using air flow are really comfortable. Looks more modern that previous style.

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  Count on it - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By PhoenixJim - April 4 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 1st Avalon (85 XLS) for the new model last year after having testing the Acura, the S80, and others. The Avalon is the best car built for the money. One of the Avalons greatest strengths. I recently learned, is its safety and handling ability. Last weekend, while driving on the highway at approx 80 mph next to a semi, I hit a large rock in the road which blew both of my right tires. I had no problem keeping control of the car, slowing down, and getting to the right. I credit the Avalons handling with literally saving my life.

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  Why buy a Lexus - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By yale - April 4 - 2:00 am

  I cannot believe the way my car rides. We took a trip for thanksgiving around 600 miles, my wife wouldnt let me drive. This car drives like a dream. Great sound system. The only problem I had was staying awake. My biggest problem so far is all its been doing is snowing, of course I keep my car under cover at that point, but I cant keep it clean with all the salt on the road. I hope this is the biggest problem I ever have with my toyota. All I can say is what a car. My mechanic who works on my audi tt told me the only difference between my toyota avalon xls and lexus, is the name plate. I LOVE IT..

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  Avalon built in USA - No good - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By racine guy - March 30 - 10:00 am

  This Avalon was built in Kentucky with good ol union labor...and it shows! The dealer delivered the vehicle with the rear middle seat belt BEHIND the rear seat backrest! The front seat belts have to manually feed back into their slots. The front armrest was replaced twice under waranty. My wife was injured by the parking brake foot lever when she was in a minor accident ? her shin bode hit the peddle which bruisded the bone. The drive train sometimes jerks in stop n go traffic or taking off from a dead stop. Finally, the tire noise is so bad...rear seat occupant ALWAYS complain about the noise! What a lousy car for $28 grand!!

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  Most comfortable car I have owned - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Marla - March 29 - 10:53 pm

  Driving this car is like sitting in your living room recliner with surround sound on. Seats are VERY comfortable, sound system is magnificent. Has all the safety features standard. Gets 4-5 mpg better gas mileage than my Nissan Maxima did. Comfortably seats 5, huge trunk space, and most importantly phenomenal pick up. One downside, bumper is a blindspot while backing up. I suggest a back up alarm be installed.

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  excellent car - reliable and full size car benefit - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By william landwehr - March 26 - 4:49 pm

  Original owner. Excellent condition. Avalon XlLE extras and reliability. Gets 28 MPG on highway, 24 in town. Regular maintenance. No accidents. Garaged car. Beautiful black car.

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  Avalons a Keeper - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By nbeiii - March 26 - 2:06 pm

  Bought this car for my wife (5k-10k miles/year). Now its my commuter car (25k+ per year; mostly highway but hard-driving miles). Getting high 20s gas mileage. Comfortable, very reliable, very stable (once I had struts & strut mounts replaced) - even at 70-85 mph. Perfect size (smaller than new Avalons) - small enough to get in & out wherever I need to go, big enough to be comfortable & feel safe. Currently 125k miles; I expect 200k+. The car is worth more to me than trade value. Back seat not huge, but not cramped. Large trunk. Strut mounts were the only significant non-wear repairs I have made. If you can buy a well-maintained one for cheap, do it. It will hold up.

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  Avalon - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By SR - March 25 - 10:00 am

  Nice car for the price