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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  Wind Noise is the Problem - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By kprko - July 27 - 8:13 am

  Wind noise from both sided leaking thru the doors will cost over $200 for new window runners. Air conditioning vents blow cold air directly on you is a nuisance. After 3 years the dash component seams are separating. Steering wheel controls are sorely missed

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  My Third Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By toothship - July 25 - 10:00 am

  This is alot of car for the money, I have never had a repair on any of my three Avalons. Every time anyone gets into the back seat they ask "What make of car is this" They are amazed by all the roominess for the back seat passengers. If you want a smooth riding confortable car, look no farther.

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  I still love my Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Mattie - July 21 - 1:56 pm

  Purchased my Avalon in June of 2004. I am faithful with oil changes and tire rotation. Have had no problems whatsoever with this car. Inside and outside are still just like new. As comfortable as any car I have ever ridden in. The gas mileage is not as good as the Camry I had before but the comfort of the Avalon makes up for this - especially if you are driving any distance.

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  GREAT CAR - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By bbullets - July 19 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE MY AVALON FOR 3 MONTHS NOW. THE QUIETNESS, THE OVERALL QUALITY, THE ATTENTION TO DETAIL, EVERY THING ABOUT THIS CAR IS EXCELLENT. MY PREVIOUS CAR WAS A CADILLAC ELDORADO. THAT IS WHAT I AM COMPARING IT TO. THE ONLY IMPROVEMENT THAT I WOULD RECOMMEND IS TO MAKE THE SEATS A LITTLE SOFTER. I FEEL THAT IM SITTING ON THE SEAT RATHER THAN IN THE SEAT.

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  2005 Toyota XLS - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Ken - July 16 - 10:53 pm

  I love it. I like the way it looks inside and out. The new engine is very powerful, smooth and quiet. There is lots of room for rear seat passengers. My neighbor is six feet five inches tall and he had plenty of room.

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  Navigator - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Don Cramer - July 15 - 10:26 am

  Overall I am very satisfied. I rate the navigator a 4. It is not user friendly and should be discarded and replaced with another. I would not have bought it if I had known. The Bluetooth set up is that you can only connect 1 phone at a time. You have to go into the phone set up and change it. The ride is quiet. The car is too new to get a an estimate on mpg.

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  I love this car! - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By AvalonXL - July 14 - 2:26 pm

  I bought this car 10-04-06. It is the finest vehicle I have ever driven. Smooth, comfy, handles easy. I had no idea a car could be this amazing. I drove from Oceanside, Ca. to Las Vegas Nv. on 1 tank of gas, over 300 miles & had gas to spare, amazing!

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  Lexus under Toyota badging - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By JP - July 14 - 12:00 am

  Wow! This cas has it all. Design, luxury, comfort, ergonomics, philharmonic sound system, safety, and ride quality. Mine is Blizzard Pearl, Ivory interior. Be sure to consider optional BBS wheels and rear deck lid spoiler for enhanced curb appeal. Little known Interior Light Package adds a very nice interior hue, at night. Only negative is low in-town mileage. Who cares. Buy one!

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  The XLS is a great car! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Markal Lincoln - July 13 - 2:43 pm

  The 2006 Avalon is a great car. I test drove many cars before making my decision to purchase the Avalon. I was looking for a larger car, with a more upscale and sophisticated appeal that was under $30,000. My Avalon XLS has it all: Leather seats, JBL Synthesis (booming) sound system, sunroof, sequential shifting, spacious interior, dual power seats, v6, excellent fuel consumption, clean looking dash board thats not cluttered and reclining rear seats. This car also has exceptional speed. If youre not careful, youll be at 100 mph without knowing it. Nice handling for a large car. Sequential shifting really allows one to move quickly.

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  An Avalon for a younger generation - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By DC-T - July 10 - 8:30 pm

  A great car for the money! I wanted a nice commuter car but still enough room to carry the family when need be. The gas mileage is great considering the amount of horsepower available.