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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  Not Satisfied - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By tagll - August 26 - 2:00 am

  1996 & 1997 only us aftermarket wheels that cannot be balanced correctly even by Toyota . The Toyota dealer where I purchased the car new told me the wheels were discontinued because of complaints. I agree! I will not return to Toyota for my next vehicle because they did not take care of this problem on my present one.

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  A taste of luxury - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By William Solawetz - August 23 - 6:36 pm

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  Very Bad in The Snow - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By The Rev. J. Wilson - August 21 - 10:06 am

  I really liked my new Avalon until it snowed. The traction control keeps me from going up any kind of steeper hills!! I was not able to get up a slight grade near my church because once the front tires started slipping the traction control shut off all power. I have never experienced anything like that. The dealership says I cannot turn off the traction control device, which leads me to believe Ill go back to driving my old Lincoln in the winter, which I gave to my son too early!

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  2003 Avalon Review - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Randy - August 20 - 3:40 pm

  I previously owned a Toyota Camry. The Avalon is definitely a step-up in quality. This is a more plush car with an abundance of features, ease of handling, and quiet ride. My only negative is the computer controlled excellerator. There is a "lag" that you dont notice in "direct wired" gas pedals. It is annoying when you really need to get out of the way fast.

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  First Toyota - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Ronb - August 17 - 6:30 am

  Talked to some Avalon owners before making purchase. Have had the car for two years putting 15k on per year. Overall, we are pleased. It has great design, size, ride, performance and comfort expected. Replaced the OEM Michelin tires at about 27K with some Yokahama. The OEM still had tread, but not enough for winter driving. Problem to date is what appears to be a "gap", missing bushing or poorly fitting parts somewhere in the steering assembly. After stopping, there is a slight drop in the steering wheel of about 1/8 inch with a little "klunk" when we start again. Dealer replaced steering assemble shaft, but problem still exists. Having hard time replicating when we take it in.

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  My 2005 Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Ed Wheelis - August 17 - 5:36 am

  This is the best car Ive ever owned. I still have problems in telling the difference from my 05 Limited, and many models of the Lexus. Actually, I think it looks much better. At 65, Ive never before been able to sit in and drive a car with a sunroof. I can sit in this car with several inches to spare.

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  Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Joe / Orlando - August 16 - 2:20 pm

  I almost passed this car up in my search for a replacement for my 98 Camry with 150K miles on it. I just decided to drive one before I went on to the Mercedes dealership to buy the E- Class that I drove the day before. A close look told me that this was not the boxy, bland Avalon of old. What an amazingly exciting car Toyota has assembled here! Power to spare, and it is silky smooth. Interior design is beautiful and very comfortable. Best seat design for a big person that I have seen. The dual zone a/c is a little confusing at first, but I figured it out with practice. I would like to see a nice looking door guard worked in, but otherwise, this car is outstanding in every way. Big and roomy!

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  Questionable - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By kydna - August 15 - 5:46 am

  Car has had no major problems. Time is showing quality issues. Paint chips very easy. Interior headliner needs replaced. Radio door cover opens 40% of the time. Control panel door for nav. falling off! With just over 30,000 miles not the quality I would expect from Toyota! I will return to MB!

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  No problems at 177,000 miles - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By dsper - August 12 - 12:18 am

  Bought our 2001 Avalon new. Replaced the timing belt at 100,000, replaced the alternator at 170,000 and the struts at 175,000. Otherwise, nothing but tires and brakes. Large comfortable four or five passenger car with plenty of zip. My other car is a Corvette when I feel the need to act like a kid.

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  Wonderful auto - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By cnunn - August 10 - 1:28 pm

  We purchased our Avalon about a year ago. We love it. The gas mileage is great..drives and rides like a dream, sound system is perfect, quiet, great rear seat comfort, in short, for us, a retired couple in our mid-sixties it is the best car weve ever owned and absolutely perfectly matches our needs. Weve owned Toyotas for 30 years and we like this one the best. Would highly recommend this car to anyone who wants a comfortable, dependable, quality automobile.