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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  I love my 07 Avalon Limited - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Nancy Ruth - March 17 - 1:00 am

  Ive been driving my 07 Avalon Limited for 2 years now and just love it. Never had any trouble with the car. It has lots of get up and go. The extra features are terrific. I especially like the smart key.

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  Great Value - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By JB - March 13 - 9:50 pm

  This car is a true bargain. I have owned other sedans but for the money this may be the smartest choice. This car is a true pleasure if you like a luxurious ride with great reliability. The car is smart looking without going overboard, the interior is excellent. For buyers looking for a sport feel this car is not the right choice.

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  I absolutely love to drive it! - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By David H - March 13 - 4:26 pm

  When shopping for our car, we researched the purchase for a good year. We took into consideration our age, our abilities (and disabilities), cost, maintenance costs, reliability, etc., and came to the determination that this was the best car for us to purchase. The 8-way power seats both driver and passenger were a must for us, and love the fact that both of us can maintain max comfort possible. When the wifes back is really hurting, she wants to go on a road trip, or just sit in the car to get it settled down! We get 26-28 MPG in town, and up to 34 MPG on road trips. The Limited with AC in seats was hard on the wifes knee replacement but wasnt worth the cost to get laser cruise.

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  Substantial,Luxurious, and Performance - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Lavon Yoho - March 13 - 10:00 am

  My Avalon rides like its gliding through air. It is so smooth and quiet. Great brakes and acceleration. Very roomy, my 65" cousin looks like hes 55" back there. Its so comfortable. I highly recommend this car. We test drove a lot of cars in the $30,000 to $35,000 range and the Avalon by far ran and felt the best. Thats our opinion. Go see for yourself, test drive one.

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  Im Thrilled - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Joe Solomon - March 10 - 1:26 pm

  This is the best sedan Ive ever dirven... Total comfort and very quiet. Performs like a big cat when asked... Fast for anything especially a six.

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  Smokin engine... literally - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By tallchris01 - March 9 - 10:41 am

  I bought this Avalon having owned another 1st generation Avalon. Didnt figure Id need to have a PPI, but I should have gotten one. Turns out the engine was a smoker. Despite replacing the valve seals and spark plugs, it continued to smoke. Quickly re-sold it.

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  Avalon Review - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By wtlson - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car for my wife who is 82 years old . She has been driving a 1992cadillac deville , She refuses to drive the avalon . She says there are too many buttons . So I am driving the avalon .My biggest complaint is the steering wheel . I have to hold my arms extende in front of me ,and it is tiring . I am 84 years old , 6feet 2 inches and eeigh 220 lbs so I have to put the seat all the way back . The car is fun to drive ,and we use it for short errands , I need to get on the highway .

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  Excellent car - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By rosignol - February 27 - 6:20 am

  Purchased with ~98,000 miles on it, put ~20,000 more on it over two years. In that time, I had no mechanical problems with it at all- the car might as well have been new. Its not the most exciting car to drive- I nicknamed mine the boringmobile. Pros: extremely reliable, good mileage, Cons: suspension feels a little mushy and the handling is only adequate. But its a sedan, not a sports car, so thats okay. Unfortunately, the car was totaled in a collision with a Chevy Tahoe. The Toyota engineering team does good work, I was not injured (nor was anyone in the Tahoe). I start looking for another Avalon this weekend.

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  Toyota does it again - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By cvg - February 26 - 7:56 pm

  Had to wait 60 days for the Limited Blue Mirage color. I think things are starting to loosen up after the initial backlog. Coming from a BMW 7 series intro in 2002, I was concerned that the new Avalon would have many glitches in a new model release. That has not happened at all and after 2 months of driving the car has been perfect. Fit and finish have been outstanding. The factory installed XM satellite radio has been wonderful with the trunk mounted antenna, an unfortunate afterthought and not well integrated into the design. Its a little cumbersome to get outside air temp. Should be visible at all times. Stereo great and car really quiet to drive. I think it has more features than Lexus.

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  Loved it! Buy one. - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By con - February 24 - 1:50 am

  Great car. I just sold one with 140,000 miles on it and I had only only a couple of minor issues. I am 63" and weigh 230. Very comfortable. Test drove the newer model, but I really needed an SUV for work purposes. I love my SUV, but I already miss it.