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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  Toyota Avalon xls - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By lgra9361 - November 21 - 2:00 am

  No major problems in over 30,000 miles. Excellent dealer service. Small problem with the driver seat recliner that was fixed with a new part installed by the dealer within a week of my complaint.

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  A stylish hybrid sedan - 2015 Toyota Avalon
  By Surya Yerra - November 15 - 10:03 pm

  Very comfortable fuel efficient and nice design

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  Stinks in the snow - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Yoda Mark - November 11 - 2:06 am

  I have 2008 Avalon Limited. I have Blizzak snow tires on it but this car totally stinks in the snow. The traction control prevents me from applying torque to the drive wheels when going up a hill. I live in NE Ohio and this just stinks. Other than that I love this car as it is very comfortable, but this is my second winter with this car and I have had enough of this nonsense in the snow. The situation is quite dangerous. Would be OK if it had a switch to disable traction control like in my 04 Sienna. I will probably get rid of the Avalon for this reason - I should have bought an AWD car. I would not recommend this car for this reason.

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  Avalon - a space shutle? - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Anton911 - November 10 - 10:00 am

  The test drive felt like I was driving a Camry with bigger body. Very ugly and uncomfortable interior, exterior is not for everyone. Very poor corner handling, although engine is alright. Suspension is camry alike.

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  I should have looked elsewhere - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jenny - November 9 - 7:33 pm

  Not a very impressive car for $35,500. Loud, and more problems as the miles add up. I had a Corolla back in college (thirty years ago) that I really liked but this one leaves me very cold.

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  L-O-V-E this car! - 2012 Toyota Avalon
  By smokeyjoe - November 6 - 8:03 pm

  I grew up with the "boats" of the 1970s, driving used Caddys, Pontiacs & Buicks that wouldnt fit in a modern garage. I loved the "float" and the overall comfort those cars provided. I seriously considered a Crown Vic/Grand Marquis and Caddy DTS before noticing the Avalon. The Caddy was too pricey and the interior didnt really suit me...the CV/GM just were so outdated that I wouldnt be happy. The Avalon is a perfect mix of comfort and amenities. The rear seat is so spacious that my 4-yos feet cant reach back of my seat! The steering wheel tilts far down like the cars of yesteryear (and current Buicks) and telescopes right to me. I love how the car rides. I would recommend it..HIGHLY!!

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  Toyota Avalon -GRRREAT!!! - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By barbara weiss - November 2 - 1:12 pm

  Seats are not heated... XM is not included....telephone is not included.... Sun roof advantages and disadvantages...extremely easy to drive and enjoy

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  Lexus Wannabe - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By EK - October 31 - 4:36 pm

  This car is a Lexus wannabe. I made the mistake of trading a 1997 LS400 with 77,000 miles for this pretender. I thought, hey maybe this car will deliver Lexus like quality at more reasonable prices. What a joke. The vehicle came with a door ding which the dealer agreed to fix. Current mileage 425. Problems: Paint bubbles, passenger air curtain column coming loose, GPS panel cover sticking out 1/4 inch, leather steering was abraded, 17 miles per gallon, road noise is my constant companion, surges forward when downshifting and other issues. Worst of all the Toyota factory rep refused to fix anything but the paint bubble. After all, why satisfy the customer?

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  Almost a luxury, but.... - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Brad C - October 30 - 7:06 pm

  Good balance between Performance, size and fuel Economy. Great power, large interior particularly the rear seating. Smooth quite ride, but feels a little floaty driving. We had some issues with the inside trim with fasteners on the window switch housing popping up. It makes me question the interior durability and craftsmanship; however, I believe the engine and transmission and drive components will prove reliable. The leather seems a bit lower grade than my old Acura Legend, but all the newer cars seem to use thinner leather. A nice chunk of paint came off when a large rock hit the front. The large doors/higher rear ends make the car harder to see out of while backing and merging.

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  2014 Avalon Touring. - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By jimdrew - October 30 - 4:17 am

  Have owned a 2014 Avalon Touring for about 3 Months now. I owned a 2012 Camry SE V6 and it was awesome. I feel in love with the new design of the Avalon in 2013. When I was able to trade out even and not upside down on Camry I did. Yes, I had to go to more than one dealer to make the deal but finally made it work. My 2012 Camry was $26K with all the toys and the 2014 Avalon Touring was $33K plus tax and tag. For a $7K difference it was an absolute steal. The ride is much better than the Camry. I love the interior design too.. wow, upscale all the way. Quick of the line and a great vehicle to drive on the Turn Pike.. I am extremely pleased. The Edmunds figures were on the money