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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  Best Car Yet - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By carl - September 23 - 7:23 pm

  I have owned is Avalon now for 2+ months and it has been a excellent car. I have had no service problems and the dealer and Tyota has been excellent in their folow up. The touring package makes this car fun to drive and I feel like its sports car with an excellent ride. The pick up is great and handeling and cournering is very good. I am very pleased and will give this car a high rating.

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  Next to Lexus. - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Ralph Joch - September 20 - 7:33 pm

  An absolute pleasure to drive, city or highway.

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  Great Technology & Huge Interior - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By drews - September 20 - 11:00 am

  My Avalon XLS Limited has bee excellent. The technology and space really set it apart. I have been averaging about 27 mpg. Love the adaptive cruise control and audio system. Air Conditioned seats are awesome in the South. I have not had one problem with the car although it is being recalled for the acceleration. The care feels like a limousine. Passengers are very comfortable. The car is VERY quiet. My only problems are that the GPS is clunky to use and I hate the covers over the audio and pop out nav stuff (can you say cheesy).

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  Best Automobile Bar None - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Ron Sullivan - September 13 - 6:33 am

  I recently purchased another automobile built by Ford (2008), kept it 2 weeks then test drove the Totota Avalon and traded the same day. I have had five previous Toyotas, including a 2000 Avalon. I had forgotten what the overall Toyota experience was like. This Avalon should withstand weather, bad roads and any other element that can be thrown at it. My XL is loaded with about every option available and was a little pricy. However, I feel the vehicle will outlast and outperform any other car in its class. I even checked out the C-class Mercedes and it wasnt even close. I love its looks, safety features, handling and it just being an Avalon.

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  Saved my sons life! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Nancy Harris - September 10 - 4:23 am

  My son was in a horrific auto accident! There were a total of 3 cars, all of the people in the other cars died and the AVALON SAVED HIS LIFE WITH ALL OF THE SAFETY FEATURES, ETC. The State Troopers told us that the Toyota Avalon saved his life! We will forever more drive Toyota Avalons as they take safety first! My sons car had the most damage; there wasnt a place on that car that did not have major damage! It was totaled, but, my son lived!

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  Great car - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Bill-NJ - September 9 - 2:00 am

  Solid and reliable car. Comfort is exceptional. Just returned from vacation, driving 18 hours straight with 5 people. Rear seat comfort is as good as front. Averaged 30 mpg.

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  COMFORT FIRST - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By JOHN WEBBER - September 9 - 2:00 am

  I have had 4 Buick Park Avenues. A friend said "sit in my new car" ( an Avalon). I couldnt believe the comfort of that front bucket seat. Then the dash board seemed very cool. Next I drove it; then I went and bought one. Any problems ? really only one; I am not used to a shorter hood. I also think the doors could shut with more authority; you have to slam it moderately hard.

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  After a year of my Avalon... - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By virginia - September 7 - 12:56 am

  I owned 2 Honda Accord Limited then changed to Camry Limited in 2005. Loved it but decided to upgrade to the Avalon in 2008. I absolutely LOVE the comfort, quiet ride, "giddy-up" when you need to move, but cant agree more with the other reviewers that Toyota needs to REIMBURSE ALL OF US WHO WASTED THE MONEY ON THE GPS! IT IS THE ABSOLUTE WORST SYSTEM!!!! Completely unfriendly. I had the touchscreen version on my Camry and it was much better. Better to buy a NUVI- just bought an 885T and LOVE IT! Significantly cheaper than the MAJOR RIPPOFF OF TOYOTAS SYSTEM!!!!!!

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  Rear end noise - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By rickdot - September 2 - 10:00 am

  noise in rear struts-dealer says all avalons make this noise

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  The smooth Toyota - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike Torchio - August 31 - 3:40 am

  An absolute pleasure to drive. This car is quiet, smooth, comfortable, powerful, handles well, and is loaded with more features than the Audi A6 I previously owned. It was also 20K cheaper than the Audi and has better features. I would be hard pressed to buy another Audi (had two of them) after owning this car.