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 1551 through 1560 of 1,746.00-
Best Car for the money - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By jka07 - February 14 - 10:33 amI have owned my Avalon for about three weeks now, and it is absolutely amazing. First look, it seems like a grandma car that wouldnt be fun to drive, but it is just the opposite! I love the way it accelerates (0-60 in 6.6 secs.) and it is so easy to drive. I purchased an 07 for $1200 below invoice! Toyota designed the Avalon very well and made it very practical! Every button serves a purpose. Dealership was fast, nice and easy to work with. I love my car and think that for the money, no other car compares.
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A new approach to luxury sedan - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Ugo Bozzano - February 13 - 7:43 amI owned an Avalon for almost 8 years and I truly liked it. However, the new model is a tremendous improvement in exterior and interior design; it has great confort features (T control on both sides, control buttons on drive wheel, reclineable rear seats) and sound system (9 speakers), safety features, and a terrific 3.5 lt engine.
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2003 Avalon is still noisy - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By Mary Payne - February 10 - 10:00 amI heard something like wind noise in the front. The salesman, of course, said no, no. He couldnt hear anything. This is a luxury car. The audio system was fabulous. The salesman was talking. I turned off the music. I asked him to be quiet. On surface streets, it was lovely. The fan was blowing when I took it onto the freeway. But after I purchased it and drove it on the freeway all alone and with everything turned off, there is DEFINITELY noise. I still cant pinpoint it or figure out how this can be.
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A few thoughts - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By biguy - February 7 - 8:13 pmI dont understand why the side view mirrors are so large & they dont fold.The car comes with without body side mouldings for protection. Why do they have very large key fobs rather than build into keys like Honda does. I understand that the engine does not have a spin off oil filter like all the other cars I have ever owned and Toyota really dont want you to do your own service on the car. On exterior styling the side view is fine, but the front grill area could be better looking, and the is just o.k. On the plus side, I wanted the feel and the ride of a German car without all the problems, so I purchased the Touring model Toyota Avalon. So far, so good.............
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Concerned - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Sal A - February 6 - 10:50 am3 yrs old w/ 60k and maintained by the dealer. At 55k miles had the oil leak others mention. Originally 31mpg, now 25. The steering sometimes sticks when making a left turn and accelerating from a standing start. Keyless entry on the drivers door is failing 50% of the time. Cooling feature of drivers eat no longer works. Transmission taking longer to shift (will it make 100k?).
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Getting Better all the Time - 2009 Toyota Avalon
By carlupi - January 31 - 9:56 pmJust returned from my second road trip in my 2009 Avalon XL, just over 600 miles roundtrip. I averaged 32 MPG on first leg and almost 35 MPG on the return, while doing 75 MPH most of the time. Amazing for a car this size. Im liking this car more all the time. Fantastic value for the price.
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I will buy another one - 2001 Toyota Avalon
By Roger Downer - January 30 - 12:00 amThis is my third one and they seem to get better each year.
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Whta is Wrong? - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By dnc - January 26 - 1:00 pmWith everything else near excellent, Toyota Avalon XLS has very annoying whooping noise on decelaration when the car is slowing from 40 mph to stop. This noise like a turbine slong down.
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Love it! - 2008 Toyota Avalon
By ksgirl1 - January 26 - 5:26 amI bought this car used in 2/11. It now has 101,000mi on it. I have it serviced at Toyota and it always checks out fine. So far I have been nothing but pleased. I have put 22,000 miles on it and have taken it on several long 2 day road trips. It is very comfortable. I have two small children and the backseat has tons of space for both of them and all of their stuff. Love the reclining back seats and built in sunshade. Trunk is huge. I have all the bells and whistles and love the navigation, built in Bluetooth etc. We just recently replaced the battery, other than that no issues. Would highly recommend.
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Love this car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By L. Jones - January 23 - 12:06 pmI just purchased the Avalon Limited (demo). It has everything (nav, adaptive cruise, custom bluetooth phone integration). Car is definitely worth thousands more. Not only are all components user friendly, the car gets great attention on the road. One complaint is the cheap appearance of the radio and interior plastic.
