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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  Excellent Used Car - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By minime76 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I recently purchased the 97 XLS model with the gold package. I think this is an excellent car. Ive had no problems with it thus far, and anticipate not having any problems with this Toyota for a long, long time. The traction control is smooth, and the automatic headlights/external temperature features are incredible. This car is the "Total Package" in my books!

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  Avalon has got it intact - 2015 Toyota Avalon
  By Don - August 22 - 2:59 am

  just purchased a 2015 Avalon XLE yesterday for my wife. This is our 4th Av with the last being a 2006. Greatly improved. Enjoyed all our previous Avs and sure we are going to Love this one. Style, comfort, great ride and AWESOME performance. Toyota has hit this one on the money. A lot of features not expected from a sedan in this price point. Looking forward to many years of dependable and enjoyable driving. Very well pleased.

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  love it - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By jkland - August 21 - 5:20 am

  We have had our avalon touring model for 2.5 years... right now it has around 43k miles. The only issue has been teh headlights.. these were replaced under warrenty. The car has a sportier ride than the other models.. w/ tighter handling,, and doesnt have the floaty feeling. it is quite and smooth.. i havent had any issues with rattling. I also havent had any transmission issues or acceleration issues.. i know quite a few people with avalons,, and no one has had any issues with these things.. i really enjoy the car and as a family of 5 ( 2 are teenage boys) we can travel very comfortably and have a huge trunk.. dont miss the space of the minivan.. would highly recommend..

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  96 Avalon, nice but boring - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By qwalls - August 19 - 3:10 pm

  I bought the car for my wife in 99 with 36k miles. It now has 168k miles. The car was flawless until 150k miles when it needed a new power steering pump and rack to the tune of $1700. Its now my "bad weather" car since my wife got a 2004 Sienna. The car has a lot of room, and is reasonably comfortable. Performance and gas mileage are good for the size. Handling is adequate for the type of car it is, but nothing to get excited about. I tend to prefer Hondas while my wife prefers Toyotas, but both are great cars.

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  Former Mercedes owner - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By CStark - August 17 - 10:00 am

  This is argueably the nicest car I have ever owned and I drove a Mercedes for years before this. This is really a Lexus dressed down in a Toyota badge.

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  King of the Road! - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Avalonie - August 17 - 10:00 am

  The best buy Ive ever made. Car had 65K miles when I purchased in mint condition. Now has 104K, I only had to replace brakes and tires, and new battery- plus routine maint. (oil change) No major repairs. I love driving the car, It makes me feel like I am "successful", I am not kidding it truly is a fantastic ride.

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  Former Lifetime GM Owner - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Former GM Owner - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I have purchased 5 new GM vehicles since 1994. The new Toyota Avalon XLS is superb so far, great handling, quiet ride, super gas mileage on 87 octane regular. The Avalon 3.5 engine has so much more power than my Buick with 3800 engine, its sometimes almost too quick. I ordered the sound deadening package which maybe just an undercoat, but it sure rides quiet. I like the well lighted large letter display.The special oil filter valve that keeps all the oil from draining back into the pan, and the 6.4 quart oil pan should add engine life.

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  owner - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By john smithy - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The exterior mirrors only tricky item on this vehicle-- too big when coming close to nearby items.

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  Warning on Toyota Period - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By d. smith - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my 5th Avalon. I have enjoyed the comfort and mileage and I thought quality to this point. This model the 08 was involved in the acceleration recall and computer adjustment. But just this past week the light all of a sudden went totally out! Upon investigation its the classic HID light problem that is so abundant on the Prius. Apparently Toyota is well aware of the problem and the critical safety issues involved if you go to consumer reports, NHTSA, etc you may well be surprised of the cost involved with the HID light problems w/ avalons and most notably the Prius. This is a definite safety issue as the lights will fail with no warning. Very expensive repair stay away from them

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  Best Out There For The Money - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By AsPaprman - August 7 - 1:23 pm

  I think this car is fantastic. I never thought I would own an Avalon, as I like really big luxury cars. This has met all my expectations. One thing I do not like is on the less expensive touring model you get HID headlamps, on the more expensive XLS, you dont! What were they thinking, for this price range almost $37,000 loaded how can you not give HID bulbs!