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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  Luxury Car without the Luxury Price - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Power2g - February 22 - 10:50 am

  This is a great car with plenty of luxury and power. The fit and finish is great, the drive is luxurious with power to pass even the sports car. I cant believe this is a Toyota even more so I cant believe it is an Avalon. As you drive the Avalon you will feel like you are in a Lexus more than a toyota. There was a lot of thought put into this machine prior to going to production. With the economy the way it is saving a few thousand dollars on a vehicle is great.

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  a few upgrades - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By T J - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Really nice, get all the options and make it look sporty ie; chrome mags, mud flaps, rear spoiler, nose wrap, rain guards,front hod scoop, auto start, then it will be complete and not your ave toyota-if u got the $ & cents.

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  Highway cruiser - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By glix - February 22 - 10:00 am

  Large, comfortable car that cruises the highway effortlessly yet gets good gas milage. For someone on the roal a lot, the reliability of this car is very important to me. Four large adults can ride in this car in comfort, even for long drives.

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  Best car I have ever had - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By JBS - February 19 - 1:26 pm

  I drive a lot-about 100 miles a day. This is the best car I have ever had and I have 221,000. I have only replaced tires and brakes. I do change the oil regularly and have replaced the battery once. I love this car and even though I am thinking of getting a new one I will miss this one terribly. The ride is so smooth, it handles extremely well, and I have always felt safe in all kinds of weather.

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  Overall good car but... - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Kevin - February 17 - 1:56 pm

  I like the quiet ride. Seats are comfortable but with my long legs I would prefer for the seat to go back more. The GPS totally stinks, dont blow your money on it, I have a 200 dollar GPS for my other car that is WAY easier to use. The traction control should have a manual override button. I got stuck on the hill going up my driveway in an ice storm and needed a bit more wheel spin, the traction control did not allow it. I love the headlights for brightness but just found out that the replacement bulbs are $325 EACH and yes I did say $325 EACH. Both went out at once at 50,000 miles and neither the basic warranty or the extended warranty covers it.

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  Mommys Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By DStealth - February 16 - 2:00 am

  As Matty our car salesman would refer to Mary, this is "Mommys" car! As previous owners of a Toyota Camry XLE, we found the small "upgrade" to the Avalon was well worth the extra $$. The Avalon was much roomier than the Camry and we opted for the XL rather than the XLS - who needs the moonroof and heated seats anyway. We purchased the wood look from the parts dept. and now have what we want. Hmm all I need now is a XLS emblem and we are there!

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  My 2011 Avalon Limited - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Twin B - February 14 - 10:53 pm

  This car is a terrific full size sedan, roomy and comfortable with all the amenities I need. But the drivers seat is too firm for my taste and could use more padding. Visibility is poor toward the rear and side. Handling is fine; those who say it handles like a 60s luxo barge dont know what theyre talking about. Ive owned many large sedans in the 50s - 70s and none approaches the handling of this Avalon. The HID headlamps illuminate my whole field of vision and at night the bright clarity makes me feel like Im in a space ship. The MPG dashboard display is an unnecessary distracting toy. A glaring mistake is the absence of a sun visor extension. Interior fit/finish is top notch

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  Great Family Sedan - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By jaegan - February 14 - 6:40 am

  When picking a sedan to replace my 350Z, I selected the Avalon over the G35, Altima and Camry. One might think G35 would have been a closer match to the Z but no sedan can match sports car handling - so I got the car that offered the most of everything else. The Avalon has a good bit of power, cavernous rear passenger space, reclining rear seats, excellent build quality, and a luxo-plush ride. Ive noticed that it takes some throttle modulation to "help" the car find 1st or 2nd gear. Cloths seats are far softer than leather. You can get over 30 mpg on the highway (at 65-70 mph). Conversely, 19 mpg in the city is common. Overall, a surprisingly great value in XL trim (paid $25K).

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  Even Better - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Chuck - February 10 - 11:06 pm

  This is my third Avalon. They get better every time. I thought the 2000 was comparable to a Lexus. The 2005 Limited IS the top of line Lexus-for $20,000 less.

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  Quality remains - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Bittle - February 9 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I ever owned. Very affordable luxury - same size as Mercedes 230 or BMW 5 series in 2000 model without pricetag. I have owned 4 Camrys and moved up to the Avalon. I stand by the Toyota name in spite of the fact that I have 3 relatives who work for a domestice auto company which allows me to purchase vehicles at below dealer invoice. The fact is that the quality I pay for in the Toyota line is more than worth the down time and repair bills I incurred from the domestic cars I bought.