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 1611 through 1620 of 1,746.00-
pearly white - 2000 Toyota Avalon
By SRM - October 10 - 2:00 amWith one more year left driving my diamond pearl white Avalon Im begining to consider my options for a replacement car. The only option...will be GPS navigation and this is available in current Avalon models. FYI...I must be the only owner with factory mud guards (color matched). I think they are worth the money. So far I consider my car a very good everyday vehicle for a salesman.
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Avalon Is Great - 2001 Toyota Avalon
By Monte Johnson - October 9 - 8:53 pmWe purchased Avalon new. Only repairs were front brake pads at 80,000 miles, rear brake pads at 87,000 miles. Battery at 7 years and tires at 40,000 and again at 80,000 miles. Rides better than a Cadillac DTS. Always starts in Iowa winter and great handling on snow and ice.
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Love my long trip cruiser - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By Hank - October 4 - 2:53 pmI wanted a big comfortable car for long trips, 2000 miles plus, I have an Infiniti G-35 coupe (supercharged). The coupe is a great fun driving car but no boulevard cruiser for long trips. The Avalon totally fit the bill. I have taken three 12 hour trips all through the mountains, and the car handled beautifully. I do all of the driving and I did not feel beaten up when I got to the destinations. If I get tired, I pull over and stretch out on the back seat - its flat and level. I had an Infiniti I30; the Avalon is a better long trip road car.
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avalon rules - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By remlap - September 26 - 11:46 amacceleration quiet ride roomy
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Lost my Avalon - buying another - 1996 Toyota Avalon
By SadtoLoseMyAvalon - September 26 - 10:00 amIn 00, was looking for a Camry and salesman pointed an Avalon out at an amazing price - which made me skeptical. Obviously, its boxy look devalued the car. But this car is as great a ride as my Infiniti and my cousins Lexus. So smooth. Never a problem. Such a quiet ride. Greatest steal of a car. Got it with 58k til 134k - never any major problem. And then one day, some old lady nailed my side T-boning it - and was shocked when they said it was totaled. I was so sad. If I had the $$$ would have paid the difference out of my pocket. But buying another - cherish this vehicle. Test drive one - and youll be hooked.
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In love with my Avalon - 1997 Toyota Avalon
By btc - September 22 - 2:00 amGreat to travel in. Roomy & lots of leg room. Good gas mileage around town & on the interstate. 25-30 mpg. Comfort on long distance drives. Great service from this car.
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Best car ever owned out of 20 new - 2004 Toyota Avalon
By alas124 - September 22 - 2:00 amI have had five Toyota Camrys since 1976 and one Toyota Lexus. The Avalon is by far the quietest and best ride of all. So far I have had no problems. All the Toyota cars have been extreamly relyable.
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Really nice car - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By SamS - September 21 - 10:00 amIf you like comfort, quiet ride and a quiet cabin at highway speeds then you really should consider this car. The car has plenty of power to accelerate quickly, as in turnpike merges and passing situations. The four wheel disk brakes are sure and responsive with no fade noted. Interior and exterior fit and finish are excellent. This car has very chiseled and angular lines in contrast with the rounded lines of the earlier Avalons and competing sedans, however, there are a lot of second generation Avalons on the road. The fact that the Toyota is known for reliability is what sells, in spite of the external style lines.
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Avalon, Toyota, 2001 - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By Avalon - September 20 - 2:00 amAn excellent vehicle... smooth, quiet, and powerfull... more room and comfort for front and back passengers than the many SUVs I test drove... roomy trunk... big enough to feel secure, safe, and comfortable, and small enough to still feel somewhat sporty.
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The Best Gets Better - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By gene - September 18 - 4:10 pmI followed the new Avalons development from 2003. Toyota kept it a secret amidst all kinds of speculation. I loved my 1998, which has 150,000 miles on it. This one surpasses it by magnitudes of order. I used regular gas in my 98 and Im doing the same in my new Limited -- the difference in responsiveness is minimal so far. Toyota has done good. And I certainly hope that the rumored similarly designed 2007 larger Camry doesnt cramp this Avalons style!!
