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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  Avalon XLS is the best! - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Landlocked - December 17 - 2:00 am

  Traveling TX and LA, I wanted a car that would give me a big car feel without the floating of the full size luxury cars. I wanted at least 3,000 lbs, 107" wheelbase, to stay under $30,000. There were only 11 cars TOTAL that qualified! Right at $30,000 the Avalon XLS is the best ride / feel / power / luxury / safety for the money. The performance of the standard 6 cyl is more than adequate! Sure, I could have spent a thousand or two less, but for the extra features and luxury, this Avalon XLS is da bomb!

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  My avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By sparky - December 15 - 10:06 pm

  It is one of the nicest driving, and riding cars I have ever owned. I am more than pleased with it.

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  Avalon Review - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Tom Tapman - December 13 - 3:10 pm

  This XLS is a much better Avalon than my 2002. The suspension is remarkedly better. The horsepower is much better. The reclining seats in the rear are very impressive. The main thing is that my WIFE loves it.

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  Avalon Experience - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Bob Daugherty - December 11 - 12:23 am

  The car is more than can be expected for the price. The Avalon is more Lexus than Toyota. It delivers what Toyota (Lexus) promises in every department.

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  THE AWESOME AVALON! - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By WAVESURFERX - December 6 - 10:00 am

  DRIVING THE AVALON XLS HAS BEEN A GREAT EXPERIENCE. THE CAR IS QUIET, QUICK, LOOKS GOOD AND IS VERY COMFORTABLE. HOWEVER I AM GLAD THAT I PURCHASED THE EXTENDED WARRENTY BECAUSE IT PAID FOR ITSELF DUE TO STRUT AND AIR CONDITIONER/BLOWER PROBLEMS. IF YOU WANT LUXURY AT A REASONABLE PRICE GET AN AVALON. PS - THE TRACTION CONTROLL SAVED MY BUTT MORE THAN ONCE!

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  10 years of quality and reliability - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim squier - December 2 - 12:55 pm

  She has a few dings and scratches and arm rest has a tear in it from my elbow over the years. The car has never been in the shop except for oil changes every 3000 miles, new skins, breaks and the recommended maintenance checkups. She runs like a champ!

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  Best Car I Ever Bought - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jason - November 28 - 12:26 am

  This is the first Toyota product Ive ever owned. Im glad my first purchase was the 2006 Avalon Touring. This car has excellent styling and comfort to match. Im 67" tall and I fit comfortably behind the wheel. It is hard to find a car to fit my height, but with the Avalon I can now enjoy my ride. If you are in the market to purchase a car let me tell you, this car has it all, and for a good price. Im a true fan!!

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  After 4 months Im sorry I bought it - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By bmallek540 - November 26 - 6:30 am

  The vehicle is smooth once you get cruising at about 60mph. However, staring from a start there is a hesitation which causes you to almost lunge forward. The roof molding has loosened and almost come off. The transmission is sloppy and flops around both up and down as you accel and decel. The electronics is from the year 2000. And, the GPS is the worst that there is! The GPS is very outdated and has very limited POIs. The voice command is a joke and now the GPS has started locking up on me. I am waiting for the dealer to get back to me on that. The stereo unit in the car is just average. This is not the car I bargained for at all. After 4 months of driving it I am sorry I bought it.

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  Most comfortable car - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By joseph - November 25 - 2:46 pm

  This is the most comfortable car I have driven in 48 years of driving. Very roomy interior; feels like a luxury car. I road tested the BMW, Infinity, Lexus, and Acura. Avalon beats them hands down in every respect. Unless you want to pretend youre an Indy driver, this car has the best road feel. I recommend you test drive this car before making a purchase on another similar vehicle.

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  Waste of money - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jason - November 24 - 9:30 am

  I bought this car thinking I needed the extra room for my growing family. Ended up being the worst car purchase I have made. A car this expensive should not have the squeaks and rattles that it does and it seems a new one pops up every week. I also hate how the maintenance light comes on every 5000 miles. The paint is also horrible - it chips off the front very easily. I just purchased an Acura TL to replace my Avalon which is what I should have bought to begin with. I will not miss seeing this car in my garage.