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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  Pegs Avalon - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Pegs Avalon - January 31 - 12:53 am

  Enjoy driving my car. Do both in-town and out-of town driving. Have maintained regular service with Toyota dealer in area. Replaced 4 tires within last year. No major mechanical problems. Cloth seats.

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  Avalon - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Dan - January 23 - 3:06 pm

  You know how you get the feeling that I bought this car new and after 3 or 4 years, you kind of get the itch to buy a new car; well with this car and it is the fifth new car I have purchased, I have no desire. This is a car I can imaginge driving 15 or 20 years from now and that never happened with the previous four.

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  The Best - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By AMavalon - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Everyone whos been in my Avalon has commented on its comfort, space, sound system, quiet and smooth ride and best of all...performance! Couldnt be happier!

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  Quality ride - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Jeff Patton - January 16 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Toyota after years of buying European cars for quality and performance. What took me so long to see the light? The car is the tightest, best built car Ive ever driven. Quiet smooth acceleration, great fuel economy (27mpg highway at 75mph), flawless fit and finish, and lots of interior room make this the best car in its class. I would buy another one.

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  257,233 miles and going strong - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By kas76051 - January 15 - 7:06 am

  Bought this car when it had 85,409 miles on it. Have replaced struts, brakes, tires, keep the oil and all fluids changed according to Toyota specs/timings. This has been a great car, so much so I just gave it to my youngest daughter for college and I went out and found another great 97 Avalon XL with leather and sunroof. These cars will go the miracle mile if you do everything on a regular schedule, this is especially true of the timing belt--dont push past the 90K mile interval.

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  Awesome Car - Buy it! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Bill from NJ - January 14 - 6:43 pm

  WOW. Great car! Ride is wonderful. Navigation system outstanding. Everything solid and tight. Good fuel economy. Very happy with selection of this car.

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  Outstanding - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Fran Patane - January 14 - 8:20 am

  This is the best car I have driven in a very long tine. Comfortable, easy to handle, and I feel like I am riding in a classy car. People have told me they tohought it was a Lexus. The heated adjustable seats are a great feature. Controls for heat and CD from the steering wheel are so much easier then reaching over. This is one classy car. Top of the Line. Fran Patane

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  Luxurious Without Luxury Price Tag - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By JayGee - January 14 - 8:03 am

  Just drove 2600 miles on 2 week vacation. Car is great. Was hesitant at first to buy a sedan, because driving positions on SUVs are more comfortable. But after all the miles and all the hours in the car on this trip, I had no back pain or discomfort. Averaged 28 to 29 mpg on highway but I was cruising at 75 mph most of the time. Could have done better at lower speed, but car is so well built that 75 mph feels like 55 mph. Luxury looks, luxury ride and luxury features without the luxury price tag. Very glad I bought this car.

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  NICE CAR - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By JACK AARESTAD - January 12 - 6:26 am

  No problems since purchaced--low tire light came on ---checked the tires all ok---called Toyota and the answered did you check the spare tire? Who would think to do that!---that was the problem

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  Ergonomic Luxo Family Sedan - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By T-man - January 9 - 10:00 am

  Bought my 2000 Avalon XLS as a Toyota Certified Used 16 months ago with an Extended 100K Warranty and have enjoyed a very troublefree car. The Avalon is solidly designed and built with proven but conservative technology. The engine and transmission are smooth, quiet and capable. The Avalons interior roominess is almost minivan like. The Avalon has a high roofline and minimal "tumblehome" with the side windows being much closer to vertical than most other contemporary sedans. This is why the Avalon body styling looks a little funky head on, the straight side glass being reminiscient somewhat of classic Rolls Royce sedans.