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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  One of the worst Toyotas built - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Harris - February 5 - 3:30 pm

  Toyota really shot down their reputation with this car. Ive been a mechanic for eight years and never saw a Toyota with such poor quality and reliability. It was a great car until it hit 20k. The couple of sensors were going bad; burning way to rich, alternator, compressor and power steering pump. My 87 7MGE Supra had less problems then this car. This was my 6th Toyota and my last. Toyota isnt building the cars like they used to.

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  beautifull green mica Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By vik - February 5 - 3:26 am

  easy to drive, it floats & has good visibility and safety features. smart key is convenient when shopping especially for quick entry into car & trunk seat has the comfort extension for tall, long legged persons giving extra knee support and its air conditioning is cool for hot summer driving

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  BEST OVERALL BUY - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Future Toyota Owner - February 4 - 10:00 am

  Im 16 and this is my parents car, yet they let me drive it a couple of times with them and 2 other people in the car. Handled well even loaded with people and cargo. Awesome gas mileage for a 3.0 liter V6.Gas down here in San Diego is at $2.30 for the regular unleaded, so this is a relief.The on- board computer thing in the dash is great because you can see the distance you have left on the tank of gas, outside temp., direction you are facing, and date and time.

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  Most Comfortable Car Ive Ever Owned! - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Evan D. - February 3 - 9:26 pm

  I bought my 1998 Toyota Avalon XLS in December of 2005. I loved it from the first day I drove it. Its ride is very comfortable and the V6 gives it plenty of power. All in all, this car is very reliable and a great car to travel in.

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  Toyota Avalon - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Nave - February 2 - 10:00 am

  An excellent car you wont want to miss with excellent power.

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  Why Lexus when you can have an Avalon? - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By CB - January 30 - 4:20 pm

  This car should be getting more attention by industry pundits. My 09 Avalon is a lot more car than I ever expected. The standard options are generous for a car costing under 34K. The ride and handling is responsive and not at all "Buick like". The Avalon V6 with the 6 speed transmission is quick and the tap shift adds a bit of fun. Why buy a small hybrid when you can drive a large luxury sedan with +30 MPG!

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  Luxury w/a Modest Price Tag - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Debra - January 30 - 6:33 am

  I traded in my 2001 XLS Avalon (loaded w/55k mi) for the new 2005 XLS Avalon. It has the distinct look of a luxury car without the $40k-$70k price tag. Its like having a Lexus/BMW/Benz all in one. My spouse drives an S500 and he loves the take off and the drive of this car. The interior is superb.Its great to be able to control the temperature of the heated seats! For family trips, the roominess of the back seat is incredible. Not to mention that the reclining back seats! The trunk space is a little smaller than the previous model,but for the exchange for the comfort in the rear seating, makes it worthwhile. Temp/CD/Radio controls on steering wheel a big+. A great car.Makes heads turn. I love it!

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  Great car bad seats - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Steve Smialkowski - January 26 - 3:50 am

  I have enjoyed my Toyota Avalon 98 for a couple months, and then I discovered that the seats are getting progressively less comfortable. Finaly, I was in pain. I opened the seat to find a steel seat pan underneeth the foam. My bottom was hitting the edge of the steel.

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  Best Luxury Car for the money - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By AverageJohn - January 26 - 2:00 am

  Bought the XLS fully loaded - leather interior, JBL sound system, 16" wheels. This car runs terrific - great acceleration. Great gas mileage too - I get 24 arounf town and push 30 on the highway. Have had no problems. This is my second Toyota (my first was a 92 Camry - which is still going strong, pushing 200,000 miles). This car is best deal for money. Fit and finish are superb. Sound system is awesome. Very very quiet.

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  Nice Car - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike_M - January 26 - 2:00 am

  Very difficult to find the bench seat version. XL not even an option. Finally we found car in storage lot with dead battery and nearly flat tire. After these were fixed, car is excellent. Comfortable and well built.