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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  Not what I expected - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By tallbored - March 3 - 11:03 pm

  I got the new Avalon to replace my 1998 Camry. The car has lots of power (268 hp), and a comfortable ride... but it is not very well built. The interior trim looks nice, but it is kind of rattley and cheap. My transmission doesnt shift into overdrive on the highway, which waste premium gas. It is at the dealer now.

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  15 years and counting! - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Dave S. - March 1 - 8:25 pm

  I never thought I would ever keep a car this long but my Avalon still checks almost every box. It continues to be the roomy, quiet and comfortable vehicle that I purchased new in 2000. Had a few (not major) maintenance issues in the eighth and tenth year. Since then reliability has been remarkable. And its exterior remains relatively bright and clean even though my old house has no garage or carport. I do wash it weekly and regularly change the oil. My two complaints are that the MPG has declined to 18 MPG in city driving. 24 MPG highway. And although the air conditioning has always worked great, it makes a short whistling sound every 15-20 minutes. Its annoying. This has gone on for over five years and Toyota cannot seem to figure out what to do to correct it.

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  Still Like New - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By mrosen3030 - February 26 - 6:43 am

  We bought this car four years ago and it has been nothing but reliable for us. Starts easily even in bitter cold. We havent had to do anything other than routine maintenance to this car. Smooth ride. Roomy backseat - three kids can fit easily (two with carseats). Nice trunk space. Ride has gotten a bit noisier through the years, but is not unacceptable for a ten year old car. We have about 170K on this right now and will keep it for as long as it will go. Our Camry had 250k on it when we finally sold that (was still running and in great condition), so we have high hopes for the Avalon.

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  Comfort and Reliability -- YES! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Pete Mor - February 26 - 2:00 am

  The Avalon ride is outstanding. It is also extremely quiet, even with the potholes in the Washington DC area! Based on past experience (THIS car is too new), the Toyota reliability should be excellent. Experience with the dealer was typical (they pushed undercoating and extended warranties). I initially tried foolishly to order a car with the exact features I want. Finally, after two months with at least another month to go, I bought one "off the lot". The 7-speaker sound system is as smooth as the Avalons ride. Attention to detail in both design and construction are extraordinary. I am delighted with the car.

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  Great Ride - one minor fix - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By DLK - February 24 - 5:56 am

  Never had a car ride so nice on a long trip.

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  always in the shop - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By dale ruisch - February 23 - 2:53 pm

  It has been in the shop for the transmission, rattles in the roof, had to replace the radio, a loose fastener in the front fender. Too high an idle. Just not the car my old Avalon was.

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  Quality, value, comfort - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By ABL - February 21 - 2:00 am

  No problems of any kind. 60,000 miles on REGULAR gas. 30 mpg on 67mph cruise control. Cruise control is exact, it never varies, uphill or down. Big people love the back seat. We bought it for my wifes back: it was the cheapest quality (Japanese branded) car with power passenger seat. What a bargain!

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  So good, you will be bored... - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By deanstayton - February 20 - 7:23 am

  There is no doubt this is an incredible vehicle. It is smooth, reliable and fast (for a daddy sedan). It has many creature comforts and even gets 26 mpg. hwy consistently on 87oct. I drive a Platinum Ed. XLS and mile for mile this car has been the best used vehicle I have purchased (read- least expensive to maintain for the ride quality). Purchased in late 08 for 5900- w/113k miles. Clean as a whistle this is proving to be quite the deal. The mid-life crises sport coup-loving man bemoans the dull exterior looks and cushy drive. This inner teen wants to buy an RSX or TC, but I can not justify selling such a great car. The practical man in me loves every boring bit of this machine.

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  AMAZINGLY LUXURIOUS VEHICLE!! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Susan Marquez - February 20 - 5:50 am

  I love my New Avalon. It has all the bells and whistles I wanted. It is so comfortable inside and so stylish outside. I am so happy that I chose this car over a Lexus without all the bells and whistles.

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  Not as good as the Camry - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Andrew - February 16 - 10:06 pm

  The tires that came with the car went out at 12,000 miles. The second set went at 24,000 miles. The present set has last since 24,000 miles to 49,000 miles. Beleive maintance at the dealership was bad. Toyota company did not listen to my complaints. This is my thrid Toyota since 1980 and will oit deal with this dealer on my next one. Do not think his maintance department is up to par. Am looking for a different car than a Toyota. Lost 2 miles per gallon after first set of tires were changed.