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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  Great Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By GatorJeff - October 1 - 8:10 am

  Fast, roomy, great gas mileage, excellent look. This car has been great to drive and gets loads of compliments. I compared to the ES330 and the G35 and really felt the Avalon was the best in class. No other car has the mix of great looks, fuel ecomony and interior size like this car. I love driving it as it performance like a sports car but rides like a luxury car.

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  2006 Toyota Avalon Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By golfscs111 - September 30 - 5:23 pm

  Ive had my Avalon for 3 weeks and I can easily say its the finest car Ive ever driven. The engineers at Toyota USA did a great job designing this car.

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  Better than a minivan - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Ann - September 29 - 7:03 am

  I bought this car as 2nd owner with only 55K miles on it to haul three kids (in carseats) in the back. I bought this after having to replace an engine in a GMC Suburban. Wanted something easy on the mind and on the wallet. The trunk is huge!! Motor/transmission is butter-smooth. Quiet ride. Corners better than Moms Lexus ES 300. Did have to replace rack and pinion. Otherwise, extremely reliable. Interior parts are solid. Wood grain is peeling though but for a 11 yr car, I cant complain too much. Gas mileage is fabulous (much better than minivans). Took it on a 2200 mile trip and averaged 28 mpg highway.

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  Avalon Review - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By John and Kim - September 27 - 10:00 am

  A very fun vehicle to drive. The only downside is that the exterior tends to get dinged up a bit as there is no trim to protect it. Overall, we are thrilled with this vehicle!

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  Avalon climate control is bad design - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Trainguy - September 27 - 10:00 am

  The Climate Control Air Conditioning System is the ablolute worst thing that have ever been put in a quality car like the Avalon. Temp control is very inconsistant and gives heat to your feet and cold to your body. Why this system could not have been made better, or at least the same, as any American Made Automobile with a Climate Control A/C is beyond understanding. American cars have had a working system for at least 8 years that is far superior to this. I could never recommend the Avalon XLS over the XL.

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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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  So Far So good - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By richiero - September 19 - 6:10 am

  After having the Mazda 626 (2000) the Avalon Limited is quite a jump. The jump has been good I find the interior to be roomy and comfortable. The car is big. While it isnt a sports car, it is nimble. Noise is very low The rear seating room is immense. Control location for driver is convenient.

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  Warning: Avalon Suspension and Brakes - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By vashondean - September 13 - 2:56 pm

  The Avalon is Toyotas flagship vehicle, but my 2004 is a disappointment. The main reason I purchased it was for the smooth ride. However, with less than 30,000 miles, the shocks/struts needed to be replaced. With some prodding, this was covered by the dealership under warranty. The front brake rotors also needed to be resurfaced under warranty due to pulsating. Toyota would not cover the rear brakes, which were 95% gone at 29,000 miles, even though the front brakes were still at 95%. Go figure!! I also have noticed the clear coat peeling in several areas. Although I love Toyotas and would buy another one, the 2004 Avalon is, with respect, a lemon.