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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  affordable luxury! - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Nate56303 - November 16 - 2:00 am

  best car i have ever owned...very, very comfortable, very snappy 210 hp. looks great, i loved the camry, but i would be tough to go back to any other toyota sedan after driving an avalon! half the price of a lexus with all the extras!

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  Totally pleased - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Chuck H - November 8 - 7:16 am

  I love this car! It is smooth, fast, and very quiet. I feel wrapped in comfort and luxury. Driving through hazardous conditions on I-80, the car was sure-footed. When I arrived at my destination I was relaxed and rested. It has amazing pick-up and go for a car its size. Back seat passengers are happy with the legroom and comfort provided by its ability to recline. The appearance of both the exterior and interior are well executed. I have had lots of compliments on both. If I had it to do over again, I would buy this car in a downtown minute!

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  A thinking persons Lexus - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By rdw_audiofossil - October 30 - 12:26 pm

  This is my 2nd Avalon Limited. The car seats five full-size adults in comfort, with heated and cooled front seats, a terrific stereo, bluetooth connectivity, dynamic laser cruise control, and a respectable navigation system. Controls are easy to use (except the nav joystick) and the car is aesthetically pleasing inside and out. The ride is generally smooth, but suffers over rough pavement. The six speed gearbox and engine are smooth as silk. The exterior noise level is phenomenally low, and the gas mileage is exceptional for a car this size. Essentially, a near equivalent to a Lexus GS, with more legroom, better gas mileage, and more storage space, for $20,000 less.

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  Almost Perfect - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Daisy - October 27 - 10:06 am

  I researched new cars for 4 months before deciding on the Toyota Avalon XLS. Quality,dependability, and interior space were what I wanted. The Avalon XLS is almost perfect. The ride is comfortable and solid. The back seat is large and very comortable for passengers, especially elderly people, making it easy to get in and out. I love driving this car!

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  Awesome Avalon - 2018 Toyota Avalon
  By MaryAnn - October 22 - 10:26 pm

  Fantastic car, luxurious, fun to drive, great design inside and out. Built well, high quality. Love the chrome inside and out. Quiet cabin love XM stereo. Best car I have ever owned.

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  Wonderful vehicle to have. - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By QuasiTT - October 19 - 8:06 am

  For the short time Ive driven this car, Ive loved the comfort, feel and response. It drives like a car many more times expensive then it is and the fuel economy is surprisingly good. On a 300 mile trip, with the last 100 miles through the Tahoe Mountains, I still had 29.3mpg. Thats something to brag about in a car that will put you back in the seat when you need it most! Very well done!!

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  Luxury for the little guy - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By James - October 17 - 8:30 pm

  This is the first luxury car that I have owned and I am throughly pleased. I have ridden in other luxury cars. The Avalon is just as nice if not better. The only problem that I have had is a vibration at 65-70 mph. I had to take it to the dealer three times before they determined that at least one wheel was out of round. I have two new tires and two new wheels. There is still a very minute vibration but barely noticeable. There should not be any vibration. The average mpg should allow the driver to reset anytime and not just on fill up. It would be nice to illuminate the area around the car at night with the headlights and backup lights when unlocked with the key fob.

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  cheaper than a lexus - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By njenel - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Great ride, comfortable, large trunk, roomy back seat.

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  Best car ever - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Polo - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Best Car I have ever owned, 7-8k less than Lexus es300 but just as good. I would definitely recommend this vehicle.

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  Love it! - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Jimbob - October 14 - 10:00 am

  Just returned from a round trip to Illinois and driving the speed limits, averaged 33 mpg, which includes a traffic tie up in the Twin Cities, and side winds the entire trip. Couldnt be any better! Fantastic ride and handling!