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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  2000 Toyota Avalon - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Joe Mulé - May 4 - 10:00 am

  The smoothest driving car Ive ever driven.

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  No buyers remorse here... - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By One Happy Driver - April 27 - 10:43 am

  This car serves as my main mode of business transportation and, essentially, my office. I have owned a lot of "business" vehicles over the years, but I have never owned one that was as comfortable and accomodating as the Avalon. Its powerful, spacious, quiet and a joy to travel in. The voice command and Navigation system takes a little getting used to, but once you figure out the correct lingo, it proves to be a practical and useful piece of technology. Toyota has finally designed an Avalon that is appealing to the "younger" driver in all of us. While I have often regretted spending a lot of money on other high priced vehicles, I definitly feel like I got what I paid for with this car.

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  Great car, could be even better. - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By carlupi - April 25 - 2:50 pm

  This is great car and value for the money. Comfortable overall, quiet, very fuel efficient. With some tweaks to the exterior design and interior layout, could be the best car Toyota makes.

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  Ugly car but great in overall quality - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Rube - April 21 - 3:33 am

  Looked at many other vehicles. I set my mind on purchasing the Acura TL until a family member asked me to drive the new 2000 Avalon. I hated the external design of the car and had my mind set on hating the car until I was given the keys to this vehicle and drove it for an afternoon. Needless to say Im an owner. I selected every option available on the car and do not regret it. GREAT Car!!!

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  Avalon 99 - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By howard hurtig - April 20 - 9:56 pm

  Great car; no trouble except for a dead battery after 8 years of ownership and a failed starter after 6 years of ownership.

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  Couldnt be more happy - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By Harold M. - April 19 - 11:53 pm

  A very nice vehicle. Outside of normal maintenence it has never needed a thing. I would recommend an Avalon for anyone who likes a luxurious ride, great performance, and superior reliability.

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  Avalon - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Chirpy - April 16 - 1:53 pm

  Great car! Lots of space inside and big trunk

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  Good car if you have low expectations - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By redfishfl - April 13 - 11:00 pm

  I have been a happy Toyota customer all my adult life (now 55 and had only one non-toyota). I am very frustrated with this car. I suppose if one has low expectations, then this is the car for you..I feel like a sucker for purchasing it.. I feel like I have a super Corolla,... not at all the car I wanted to give my wife. We purchased this car for long rides, and I only see this being acceptable for around town. Toyota has taught me a lesson I will not forget. It seems to me that Toyota has left the upscale market, and is leaving that for Lexus territory. Seriously, Im not being too harsh. Check it out for yourself.

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  Best Designed Avalon Yet - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By bobandangie - April 12 - 1:36 pm

  Our 2006 Avalon is our third; weve owned an 01 and an 03 previously, and were satisfied with them. The new 06 weve purchased has just cracked 8500 miles and runs better than our first day. Its roomy, the controls are perfectly aligned and its the ultimate luxury sedan.

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  2003 avalon xls - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By billiboy - April 11 - 10:00 am

  Test drive before you shop Lexus ES300 or Infiniti I35 sedan. Very Quiet and roomy, good acceleration, feels like a Lexus inside. Exterior Styling bland but functional. A Japanese Buick, with higher quality than its American counterpart. Low maintenance and insurance rates.