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:

• 

  A bit more effort and it is a TEN - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By pennwren - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful car to drive and transport passengers. Door handle quality is poor with pealing chrome. When rear left window is down about 4 inches I get a noise of flapping. I will buy another one but test drive with windows slightly down in back as the noise of flapping is very irritating. The only other problem I have had is the rear bumper paint is very fragile. It scrapes off with minor friction.

• 

  engine sludge - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Little Johnny - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Be very careful when buying a Toyota V6 because of engine sludge problem. Other than arguing with Toyota to fix the problem, the Avalon is treating me nicely.

• 

  Toyota Avalon XLS - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By chuchi - October 29 - 2:00 am

  So far it is excellent

• 

  this is my third avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By s leonard - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Had a 1996, 2000 avalon and now this one. Enought said, GREAT CAR!!

• 

  Only Toyota - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Guitarmom - October 28 - 4:40 am

  We have purchased many Toyota vehicles but this is the best! We love Toyota due to the quality of the vehicle. They hold their value better than any other vehicle of this price. The ride is super quiet and smooth. It holds to the road great. The ride and drive is super!

• 

  Just about nails it - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Kayaker - October 24 - 4:33 pm

  For context, my previous cars were a BMW and Avalon. It came down to the Lexus 330 and this, which offered so much more for the money. Smooth power, comfort, luxury, room to spare in cabin and trunk, and all the toys are the story here. The controls are arranged well and are easy to use. Storage bins are ample and handy. Quality is in evidence everywhere. I looked at about ten large, luxury models in all and this one just stood out.

• 

  IM IN HEAVEN! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By TERRY - October 22 - 10:00 am

  I feel like im floating on a cloud. The ride is so smoothe. There are no "blind" areas. My previous car was a Gran Prix. It had all of the bells and whistles, but had a very hard ride. I get a new car every 5 years...Cant wait to see what Toyota has in store for 2008!

• 

  My Avalon - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Lezahm - October 20 - 8:20 pm

  For my retiree life, I have enjoyed the economy of my Avalon. Trunk is very roomy. Would like an American seat. Needs more room in front than back. Dials need to be in front of steering for time, mileage, etc. Toyota should not scrimp on good tires on a new model, as their brand had to be replaced in 15,000 miles, when the manufacturer warranted (with fine print) 30,000. I bought a different brand and paid full price for Michelin which I asked for when purchased but they would not give to me; therefore I had to take their tires if I wanted the car. I did not like that. I got no consideration unless I replaced the shabby tires that came on it from that company.

• 

  Great Car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Linda Clifford - October 16 - 1:13 pm

  I love everything about this car. It is comfortable, roomy, powerful, fun to drive and safe above all. Everyone who rides in it comments on how comfortable it is and how roomy it is. Gas mileage is as good as you could expect with a 6 cylinder coming close to 30 on the highway with cruise control. Not bad. I would recommend this car to anyone who loves luxury at a reasonable price.

• 

  Try it, youll like/love it!!!! - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By eugene - October 15 - 2:46 pm

  This car drives well. It has a tight turning circle for a large car, smaller than the turning circle in my Volvo s60 (which was surprising). The trunk is slightly smaller than the 06 Limited I traded in. It uses regular gas and the maintenance is minimal. Since it is black, it looks great when washed and waxed. The interior is quiet, even when it is windy outside. Gas mileage is impressive, especially for a car this size. This is my second Avalon and it took some time for me to adjust to driving it. Take it easy; its a car to be driven smoothly. It has great get up and go when on the highway, passing and changing lanes. It takes a lot of composure to drive it. I am constantly tempted to drive faster, etc. But, if I wanted speed for speeds sake, I would drive my s60, which has a beauty all its own. This car takes you by surprise, urging you to want to take more road trips, which I plan to do. Go for a test drive and you might want to get one too. I purchased an extended warranty, since I plan on many road trips, where almost anything can happen. I also bought an after-market GPS to help find " things".