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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  You have to read this before you buy - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By malutka - May 22 - 7:48 am

  The biggest issue for me is that the whole interior (meaning door panels, dashboard in my car especially rear doors and behind passenger seats) squeaks which is unacceptable for this type of car. Barely noticeable during the day, because of the outside ambient noise, with occasional louder squeaks here and there. But at night it is impossible to drive without music on- it drive me crazy! Suspension: you feel all the bumps, but the car is soft and has no handling power. My 9 speaker sounds system almost like in dodge neon. It sounds like all the sound coming out of one dashboard speaker. Telescopic Steering wheel doesnt pull out far enough. If you 6 and over, your hands will be straight.

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  Best Yet - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Richard G. - May 18 - 4:03 pm

  Best car and best Avalon I have ever owned. Rides like a dream. Looks great. Very roomy. Almost no noise. I cant believe my fuel mileage. Consistently between 28 and 33 using cruise when driving the speed limit. Got great value on my 03 trade in to boot.

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  I want a Mercedes but cannot afford one. - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Roy Cruise - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle. Rest assured its quality.`

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  Avalon XLS - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Hexman - May 17 - 10:00 am

  I have always wanted this car ever since I sat in the back seat of a friends 1999 Avalon. I was amazed at the room. This model has lived up to the expectations. Besides the interior room, the riding comfort is outstanding. I have owned 2 Saab 9000s, and Im very pleased with the Avalons luxury feel. On the downside, while the handling is fine for me, it does not handle like my Saabs or other sports sedans Ive driven. I need to slow down a lot more going into turns with the car sliding more than hugging the road. It is fine on the freeway, but my wife feels it tends to drift a little.

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  Loving my 4 door Avalon XLS Sedan!! - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Jo Ann Kimber - May 17 - 10:00 am

  We just bought our second Toyota Avalon XLS & really like it. Its got a beautiful interior with wood trim on console, & steering wheel has a rich look with both leather & wood. The bucket seats are comfortable (we chose leather) & seat a larger person with ease. It has excellent handling which makes it a fun car to drive. Our 2001 Toyota Avalon didnt get the mileage that Toyota suggested we would, but I think thats because I use my air- conditioner year round, daily. We also know that Toyota has an excellent resale value. Love my new Toyota Avalon!!

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  Ponchittas Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Ponchitta Bondojia - May 16 - 4:46 am

  The Avalon XL is an outstanding automobile. Its velvety smooth ride and quick response is a sheer pleasure to experience.

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  So this is Toyota! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By First new Toyota - May 12 - 6:06 pm

  My first new Toyota and in fact first new car! Never before have I been so divided. On the one side this car is well crafted and has a sweet V6 engine. Interior room is good. Dash is easy to read. Like the auto headlights too. Then on the other hand many annoyances abound. The rear seat doesnt split fold. The rearview mirrors are fixed. No door protection moldings on a 28K car! No bluetooth option. Transmission has been quirky. More road noise than it should have on the open road. Mileage not what advertised. Door insulation held on by cheap plastic and it falls off on occasion. Trunk is tiny! And the back seats are more comfy than the front ones on long trips which is really weird.

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  Best Car in US for the Price - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By dennis - May 10 - 2:40 pm

  The 2005 Avalon XLS is awesome. It performs best at higher speeds, where it purrs like a cat and seems most at ease. The torque is amazing and can put you out in front of cocky kids in sports cars. You can challenge a Chrysler 300 on long stretches and leave almost all but the big BEAMERS disappearing in your rearview mirror. The only downside is getting used to the computerized shifting program which can seem bizarre and confused. Also the the brake pedal is mushy to the extent you feel you are losing fluid and the pedal is going to the floor... but in reality the pedal is reacting to various pressure intensities -- and it takes getting used to in order to feel confident.

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  Above average returns on investment - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Larry - May 8 - 10:00 am

  I bought the vehicle brand new. No major repair bills until now. Ignition coils all need to be replaced - this is a pricey job. Do your routine maintenance and car should be fine, but suggest that you get an extended warranty if you plan to keep it past 5 yrs and 80,000 miles

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  Expensive Repairs - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By David Brandt - May 8 - 3:56 am

  I bought my Avalon two years ago. On the whole, I do like it, but I am not impressed with little things that break, or more to the point, my dealerships response to it. Ever since I bought it, the lever that controls the steering column keeps slipping out of place and steering wheel gives way. Just now, after two years of ownership, the lock assembly on the trunk broke. Because my warranty is on 3/36, I have to pay $450 to have a lock fixed. If Toyota quality is so great, why doesnt the company stand behind its product with a more substantial warranty? Also, why should such a small problem cost so much to fix. A two year old car should not be having these problems. I am not impressed.