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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  What A Diamond - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By rambo - January 23 - 3:13 am

  I work for a Toyota dealership and bought a 1-Owner 2000 Toyota Avalon XLS with 85,000 miles and it has been a pure diamond. I just had the windows tinted and the car doesnt have a scratch on it and has all the service records as well. Im very pleased with this one!

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  A Great Buy - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Alangc - January 22 - 7:20 pm

  The vehicle is a poor mans Lexus and is a pleasure to drive. It is well worth the money and I love the heated & vented seats.

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  beware of paint staining - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Hands501 - January 21 - 10:00 am

  Weve had the vehicle for two weeks, and love it so far. We did have trouble with the dealer, when the detailing department sprayed tire dressing on the tires. The dressing then stained the diamond white paint. The dealership had to buff out the clear coat and repaint the wheelwells and back quarterpanels (lower portion only). The service manager commented that the paint on the white cars was easy to stain. Purchased our 2003 model for $30,000, with moonroof, heated leather seats, floor mats, and diamond white paint, but only got wholesale for our 99 Chysler LHS.

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  Dashboard and oil line - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By joeball - January 20 - 4:25 pm

  I have 52,000 miles on my Avalon and the dash is getting hairline cracks everywhere. I was told it would cost $1,200. to replace .Then this week my rubber oil line hose failed that repair cost was $425. I almost damaged the engine but I was able to take it to a dealer for repairs . It seams the rubber on the Toyota is defective !! NOTE: the hose is 4 inches long and cost $78. On the internet you can buy 5 feet of the same Original Equipment Manufactured hose for $10.00 from part # 13016

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  Great Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Austin Profeta - January 16 - 11:26 am

  First Toyota, exceeds my expectations. Impressed with fit and finish. Almost bought the Chrysler 300 LTD but this car rides and looks better. Toyota is going to have a hard time holding price on Lexus ES330 once the word gets around on this baby. I only wish I was willing to wait for a LTD model, but the XLS doesnt disappoint

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  2011 Limited - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By TMan - January 9 - 12:00 pm

  Bought first 2011 Limited in Texas. Previously owned 2005, 2006 and 2008 Avalon Limited. 2011 has a little more sporty look (more so than pictures show) More obvious to someone who owns a current model than a non owner. Interior dash board changes and updated Navigation system a big plus. Many "optional equipment" items now standard. Sticker price about $2,000 less than comparable 2010 models. (perhaps to line up price wise to 2010 Lacrosse) MPG claims a one MPG improvement. No laser guided Cruise control on 2011 models, dealers dont know why. Dealer did come off sticker more than expected,With base difference on MSRP I feel I paid a $2500 premium for 2011 vs 2010.

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  Smooth - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By robert.hinkle25@gmail.com - January 9 - 10:38 am

  This car does a lot well. Ride is fantastic, acceleration is strong and the sound system is great. I have a Miata for fun and the handling for the Avalon is very respectable. The car is quiet inside but at highway speeds it could be a little quieter. Navigation works well. It can suffer from glare on the screen when sun is low. But the car is easy to live with. Gas mileage is much better than expected for a car this size. The rear seat comfort and room is amazing. It performs well in the snow. The new versions suffer from stiff ride. Find a 2011-12 and hold on to it. 18 months later (57K miles)- still a very enjoyable car. Long trips do not fatigue as seats are comfortable. The only complaint is at highway speeds there is a higher level of interior noise than I would expect for a luxury version. As noted by others glare on navigation screen can be bad depending on time of day and angle of car. Overall still very happy. Mileage has been great and no lack of power from the engine.

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  A reliable, comfortable and plain car. - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By jrender - January 9 - 2:00 am

  The car is spacious reliable and well built, yet the styling is plain. I dont like the buick style bench seat. But the back is spacious and the car is of good quality. good trunk space.

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  Best car ever owned! - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Susan - January 7 - 6:23 pm

  Cant be beat! Best auto Ive ever owned, I plan to buy another very soon and my husband will take my currently owned Avalon - we dont want to give it up.

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  So far good except - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By bigpaulie - January 5 - 11:53 pm

  So I have 42k on the car. It has been reliable and low maintenance. The backs of both seats have fallen off. I went to Toyota and they said it is a common defect but since I drive a lot they want $800 to fix. It is clearly a poor design but Toyota doesnt respond. I bought the 120k bumper to bumper but was told after it isnt bumper to bumper and that they "have good sales people". My car is embarrassing to sit in.