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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  Another winner - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By RapidRobert - August 6 - 1:36 am

  I bought a 11 Limited after looking at pre-owned 09 & 10. The car just oozes quality. Unbelievable power from a V6 in a large car, especially given the outstanding gas mileage. I get 26- 29 mpg. Nice styling changes to the front & rear ends as well as the dashboard. NAV has been improved & has a backup camera, too. Several optional items are now standard. In reality the price for the Limited has gone down! Before you buy a competitor, drive the Avalon. Dollar for dollar you can not beat it!

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  2002 AVALVON - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Tim Corbin - August 3 - 10:00 am

  BEST CAR I HAVE EVER OWNED

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  We LOVE our NEW USED Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By toofdr3 - August 3 - 7:54 am

  We have always had great experiences with Toyota Avalons. My husband drove our last Avalon for years with minimal service required. We recently just purchased another used Avalon 2006 Limited without any hesitation. High quality, affordable, and it was nice to know that the value of the car did not depreciate as soon as we drove it off the lot (like other brands).

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  Sleeper - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike - August 2 - 6:16 pm

  Hard to beat for the price. Awesome power for a V6 with great highway mileage. Handles very well on snow & ice (equipped w/traction control).

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  Help! - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By george hooper - August 2 - 8:33 am

  I paid $36,000 for my 2009 Avalon. I will not drive it. It has 3000 miles on it. On 8 occasions the car has lurched forward after brakes were applied. One accident occurred costing me $500 deduct. I was in the bank line when the brakes failed. Car started moving forward. Brakes would not stop the car. Toyota dealers say they cannot find a problem. Both my husband and brother have experienced same problem driving this vehicle. Dealers say no other person has reported anything similar. The car is just too dangerous to drive. I am lucky I have not been injured or have injured someone else.

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  Assembly Problems - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Ellen - August 1 - 8:26 am

  I absolutely love this car however I have experienced several problems to include the window control panel came out of the door the first time I rolled the window down. The speaker vibrated/cracked when I turned the stereo on. Took it to the dealer and after repair I now have an unbearable wind noise in the cabin that is proving hard for them to find/fix. Ergonomically I think the interior is a masterpiece. I am hoping the dealer can fix my problems so I can enjoy this car even more.

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  Outstanding highway car - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By emiddle - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I travel about 30,000 miles per year in my job. The Avalon is an ideal choice for this type of use. Definitely a Lexus in a Toyota wrapper.

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  AVALON NEEDS -VERY FEW - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By edwards - July 31 - 10:00 am

  GREAT RIDE-GREAT FUN- A PLEASURE TO DRIVE-GLAD WE DIDNT BUY THE VAN.

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  Dream Car - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Olishka - July 31 - 10:00 am

  This car handles like a dream. Instant response. Comfort, Style, Luxury.

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  AC smells from mildew - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By JEF - July 29 - 6:58 am

  This being my 3rd Avalon (probably my last one as well) has a terrible smell coming from the AC vents. Dealer says this is normal, well it is not nor is it acceptable. They recommend changing the cabin air filter. It was changed to no avail, smell still there. Dealer checked the drain and all appears OK. There appears to be a design flaw in the drain for the AC evaporator for which they will do nothing.