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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  I just got rid of it after 6500 miles - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By David A - June 28 - 12:33 am

  I bought this car after doing a lot of research and was initially quite happy with it. Over the 15 months that I had it, it was in the shop twice for rattles, and twice to have the oxygen sensor issue fixed, for a total of about 7 or 8 days without the car, most was related to the sensors. It had another annoying rattle in the dash when I got rid of it. These may have all started after I had XM added to the car, but that doesnt make the rattles go away. I traded it in for a non-Toyota vehicle after 6500 miles.

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  So far so great - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Retired & carefree - June 26 - 8:40 pm

  Very pleased with the car. It has met or exceeded my expectations. Did a lot of research before buying. This is my 1st full size/luxury car. Its a lot of money but its a heck of a lot of car! With the problems Toyotas reputation is facing today incredible discounts are out there on even new 2011s. But even their MSRP prices beat the snot out of the competition. Tremendous engine, transmission, ride & comfort. Quick as this car is it gets phenomenal mileage. Once youve driven one, you will want it!

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  Uniformed of truth on batterys - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By determined2 - June 23 - 8:28 pm

  Purchased 2011 Avalon in May 2010. Constant dead batterys. Cannot leave car over 4 days without jumping it. Not informed this is constant problem with this vehicle as it appears it is being hidden. Have much documentation but they will not put their statements in writing. Sticker price was $47,000 and it started just 10 days after taking possession of vehicles. Beware of Toyota Avalons! All back up documentation available . Toyota is ignoring this problem , It will not go away!

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  07 LTD - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By avalonlady - June 20 - 3:14 pm

  Nice luxury ride, great suspension. Seats are not very comfortable, not well padded. Not crazy about the plastic looking controls on the dash. The navigation is not user friendly, its not operational while the car in use and the radio has very poor reception, no Mp3 jack. Outer appearance is lovely, and the inside is beautiful with woodgrain despite the white plastic controls. I average 31 mpg on hwy and it turns heads every where I go. I have the blizzard pearl color. Must admit the back reclining seats are nice and there are lots of rear room.

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  Love My Avalon - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By TonyR - June 20 - 10:00 am

  I love my 09 Avalon. I use to buy nothing but Lincolns and switched over to Avalon in 2004, this was the best vehicle i have ever driven in the 40 so what years of driving. For some reason the 04 overpowered all the vehicles i have driven. I try to trade every three years to keep my cost value up. I have been driving my 09 now for for 19 months now and love it. I m getting anxious to see what the next new model year design is like and if i like it ill be trading in a flash! Keep up the good work Toyota!

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  2005 Avalon Limited - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Momof2 - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this car 26 months now and have had no mechanical problems. Replaced the tires and brakes and regular maintenance. Very fun to drive for such a large car, Im still in my 30s and want something that carries my family comfortably and still has some power under the hood, and my Avalon has it all. Paint seems to be thin though, and has small rust spots in places, even though I wax 2x a year. Only big problem is that when I went to upgrade into a newer model, I lost all of my value due to Toyotas recent problems, and am now stuck upside down. The only good thing to that is at least my car is last me a good long time. Ill be bored of it long before it wears out, I believe.

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  another great avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By bernard levine - June 17 - 2:33 pm

  over 10 years this is my 3rd and best avalon yet... amazing comfort in front with all the push buttons needed and easily handled... flat floor in rear with reclining seats and fantastic passenger confort... been getting compliments over the past 2 months of ownership.... just fearful of having it valet parked, because many cant handle the keyless operation with the push button ignition-but its been getting more and more popular... moving up to 20 mpg in the slow city and expect 29-30 on the highways

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  Loving My 2014 Toyota Avalon - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By Linda - June 17 - 1:02 pm

  Its an awesome car that I plan to have around for a long time!

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  Incredible! Incredible! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By fte - June 12 - 6:16 pm

  Have owned three Town Cars (traded a Cartier). The Avalon is more comfortable than ANY TC Ive owned. Fun to drive, good looking, filled with FEATURES (TC -- essentially zero!). Nav system is amazing and functional. Its quiet. The dash is simply beautiful. The laser cruise is sweet. Ive had three corvettes but Ive never been as excited about a car as this Avalon (The Toyo has 20 less HP than my vettes!). First Japanese car ever and it may not be the last. (Wife just got a Sienna and loves it too!) Were both 59. I feel like Im driving a BMW.

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  Lovin my Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By ttboy - June 11 - 10:43 am

  You wont find a better and more equipped car for the money. Good performance, looks, and everything else thrown into one $30k vehicle.