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 311 through 320 of 1,746.00-
Fun Avalon - 1998 Toyota Avalon
By Jim - March 28 - 11:03 pmThis is a nice comfortable car.. It is the same model as the Lexus 300.. same car but much cheaper.. Great road car cruises well at 80 mph plus! The V-6 is very powerful..
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Love My Avalon - 2009 Toyota Avalon
By ceejay921 - March 25 - 3:46 amI purchased an Avalon XL last year as a Christmas gift for me but unfortunately totaled it in an accident. My husband and I were so impressed with how well the inside cabin kept us safe, that we had to buy another one. I purchased the Limited model last month and I am loving this car and all of the perks that come along with it! This model rides even smoother than my first one and can fit the entire family with ease. I recommend the Avalon to anyone looking for a comfortable ride at a great price.
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toyota avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
By tennisace - March 23 - 2:00 amreliable, extremely roomy for our very tall family(6.5 and 6.7) even in the rear. XLS comes with everything, we continue to have problems with the vehicle skid control, car only has 5000 miles.
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Just one word "Impressed" - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Charles - March 22 - 7:40 amWhen we were looking to buy we were leaning to the Buick Lucerne my wife wanted the Avalon which we purchased the ride is very stable and engine noise very quiet compared to the Lucerne,we made a 2000 mile trip driving at 65 mph and got 37.3 mpg on the trip we have not driven a trip at 75 yet so I can`t give you a mpg at that speed but I`m impressed with the handling and overall quality and design of the 2006 Avalon excellent auto
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Excellent Avalon - 2008 Toyota Avalon
By DRJ356 - March 15 - 6:13 pmI have been driving my 08 Avalon Limited for just over a year & have 20k on it thus far. Overall I am quite pleased. Ive had zero mechanical problems. This car is supremely comfortable to drive & ride in - easily equal to my wifes Lexus. I commute 30 miles each way daily and this car makes the trip very pleasant. Comfort is excellent for 5 adults. Interior is outstanding but with a few cheap materials (plastic doors on console). Im 64" & 250 and have good space. Center console is a bit intrusive. Buy Garmin 700-800 GPS and save $2k. Its stupid not to include a back-up camera as standard equipment on a Limited.
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White "Nite" - 2000 Toyota Avalon
By Louis DiLandro - March 15 - 3:24 pmDespite the age it still performs as the day I drove it out of the showroom.
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Roomy and comfortable - 2000 Toyota Avalon
By Logan - March 15 - 10:00 amThis was my first large luxury car. Couldnt be happier with comfort, performance and reliability. It replaced the last American car Ill ever own. I now have 3 Toyotas and am happy with them all.
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Seriously this car is almost as old as me - 1998 Toyota Avalon
By carenthusiast7 - March 15 - 8:39 amIm 18 and a serious car enthusiast and this was my first car when my dad handed it down to me when i got my license @ 15 and a half(had 150k miles on it). Of course it isnt exactly my choice of a car and I made a bet with my father that if the car died we would get a replacement car of my choice(reasonably priced of course). And Im still losng that bet, that car has not died at all or shown signs of even slowing down. Sum of it all, you cant go wrong with this car if you need a used cheap low maintainence car for just point A to point B.
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Loved this car UNTIL... LOST ALL OIL! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Terry A - March 6 - 6:16 amI loved my Avalon, but now have lost all confidence in its reliability. On an out of state trip an oil hose developed a pin-hole leak. There was no indicator or light alert. We still have not gotten all repairs done, but will cost min $2500!!! (of course out of warranty with approx 101,000 miles).
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Transmission - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Mac - March 6 - 2:20 amLove my Avalon. Had a Camry and always wanted an Avalon but didnt like the style of the previous model. The design on this car is impressive and gets a lot of nods.
