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:
Showing 281 through 290 of 1,746.00-
Why bother with a Lexus? - 2004 Toyota Avalon
By Don - December 22 - 1:46 amMy Avalon is as well built, comfortable and reliable as my friends Lexus but about $15000 less. Acceleration is a bit less and cornering is not as sharp but it takes regular gas and I run out of courage long before I get near the cornering limits.
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Fabulous Toyota Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Lavern Chatman - December 21 - 8:53 amRecently, I purchased a 2006 Toyota Avalon. I had owned a Mercedes for almost 10 years. This car is absolutely fabulous to drive. It is quiet and has a lot of power. The interior is classy and outside desing is gorgeous.I love my new Avalon.
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No Regrets - 1998 Toyota Avalon
By averagejoe - December 21 - 2:00 amYou get great reliability, excellent fuel mileage for a 6 seater (I got the bench front seat), and a little luxury and comfort as well. I will keep this car for at least 10 years and have no regrets.
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200k miles no repairs - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By R. Mitchell - December 20 - 11:14 pmRides and drives like new/ 200,000 miles only two brake jobs, 1battery, 3rd set of tires, and oil change and alignment . Like driving for free just add gas
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My 05 Avalon XLS - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By B Edmondson - December 19 - 10:50 pmOutstanding peformance and still great gas mileage--Lots of fun to drive--Just as nice as a Lexus-- This car is loaded with features--I Looooooove it!!!
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Roomy Toyota Sedan - 1999 Toyota Avalon
By BigGuy - December 18 - 7:20 amIm 67", needed lots of head and leg room, and got it the Avalon. It has all the get up and go I ever needed. Now that its broken in at 140,000 miles, it gets 30 mpg on the highway; what a nice surprise. Maintenance costs have been half of our other vehicle, a 2003 Chrysler T&C.
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A Lexus in Toyota Clothing - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Jeff - December 13 - 12:16 pmI have never been more pleased with a car. The ride is excellent with reasonable handling. The performance is tremendous with good mileage to boot. This thing is very, very quiet. The stereo is among the best Ive heard in a car; unless you want to rattle windows, this unit is of excellent quality. The seats are tremendous, second only to the LS430. I looked at a certified LS, but the Avalon compares well with it and even has slightly more room in some areas. I would say that the LS430 seats are more comfortable, but only by a little. All in all, an excellent choice for commuting or just for comfortable driving.
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Still Running Great - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Rayalon - December 12 - 2:40 pmAfter 25,000 miles this car still looks great and is running flawless. Makes long driving trips a breeze with all the comforts one would expect from this fine automobile.
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Toyota Does It Again - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By dochurt - December 10 - 11:26 amWe own a 2000 Avalon XLS and it has been the best car we ever purchased. It motivated us to purchase a 2005 as our second car. The 2005 is bigger, quieter and gets better gas mileage than the 2000--about 30 mpg on the highway. For some explained reason, Toyota did not install the double sun visors with extensions on the 2005 model, which is my only complaint. Superb automobile--the best buy for your money.
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2006 avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By cardocval - December 1 - 7:46 pmthis vehicle is every bit as nice as driving my ls 400,with the added bennefit of much better mileage.
