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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  Touring model is the perfect mix - 2016 Toyota Avalon
  By Irv - April 24 - 4:32 pm

  Good handling with looks and luxury. Plus a great price.

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  Love It! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By JSF - April 22 - 8:13 am

  I commute 100 miles every day and really enjoyed my first year in my Avalon Limited. Only slow driving cell phone talking left laners interfere with my total enjoyment!

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  Pearl - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By drs - April 17 - 10:10 am

  This car is way different from my 2000 Avalon (which looked like a grandpa car). The 2005/06 is hot looking and had the power to match almost any car on the road. The torque is huge for a 6-cylinder and the mileage is great for a 268 hp engine. The only problem is getting used to the computerized controls (braking and accelerator). The computer programming causes annoying shifting and some delays in reaction times.

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  Love My Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Reggie Young - April 14 - 3:23 am

  I have been a Toyota lover for years because they last forever. But I have not loved a car like this since my Celica I bought in 1982.This car has everything and is a joy to drive, comfort level is excellent, design is absolutely great, quiet ride, I can not say enough to express how much I love this car.

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  2006 Toyota Avalon Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By CWernke - April 8 - 8:16 pm

  This is our second Toyota product purchased in the last 2 years, first one 2004 Highlander. I am continually impressed with the build quality and value of Toyota products. The Avalons ride is incredibly quite and stable. Great value for the money

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  Avalon - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Hugo - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Great Car! The best car I have ever owned. alot of car for the money. Would recomend to anyone.

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  Initial review after first trip. - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By JohnAE - April 6 - 7:20 am

  Within the first week of ownership completed a one day 830 mile trip. Really smooth, quiet, comfortable, fuel efficient car. Computer said we got 29.9 mpg at 70++ mph. Not a canyon carver but handles well enough for legal speeds. Braking is okay but not stellar, best you could say is it gets the job done without drama. JBL sound system has excellent separation and frequency range. Blue tooth is a plus. Floor mats are black, a little strange. All dash controls are easy to reach and well lit even in bright light. Manual tilt and tele. Seats are supportive even though flat but sit a little to low even when adjusted as high as they go. Headlights light up the night.

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  Welcome refuge - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By WrP1997 - April 4 - 11:46 pm

  Driving 35K a year in an economy car has the body calling out for more comfort. Compared every luxury/full size car available from BMW to KIA. When you total everything up: MPG/Comfort/Fuel Type/Maintenance/ Price/Features/ Reliability and Design the Avalon is a pretty clear choice. New cabin is clean, clear and concise which instills in you a feeling of unpretentious elegance. The cocoa bean metallic paint is possibly the best color available by any manufacture this year. I have only had mine two weeks but fully expect my Avalon to be a trusted part of our family for the next 10 years.

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  2007 Toyota Avalon 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Boca Wife - April 3 - 3:20 am

  At first I wasnt very impressed with the car until I drove it. It was great. My husband is over 66" he actually picked out the car first, he was very comfortable seated in it. Both my kids are over 5 feet all and they are between the age of 9 and 11. I am 5 9 " I am sure the son will enjoy this car when he is 16... I hope. Thanks to my husband for introducing the Avalon. Its great.

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  Wish I wasnt getting rid of mine - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By calimama - March 30 - 3:13 pm

  I bought this car with 92,000 miles on it several years ago, using it for commercial (livery) use and then driving from Massachusetts to California in it. I now have over 152,000 miles on it. I had to replace brakes/rotors as well as the shocks (which I didnt bother fixing for 4 years, actually), but absolutely trusted this car all the way (no major repairs, just routine stuff). Unfortunately, my husband crashed it recently, and would rather spend $7k on a Honda rather than $3k to fix the Avalon. Im heartbroken, but well still hold on to it in our garage and perhaps fix it later.