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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  Avalon is the Greatest - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Avalon - September 7 - 3:40 pm

  Our 2000 Toyotal Avalon is the best car we have owned. Smooth ride, excellent handling and great pick- up. Solid, safe car for family. Very comfortable seats.

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  Reliable Car - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Howard Rose - September 6 - 5:56 am

  This is my 4th Avalon out of my last 5 cars. Needless to say, I have been happy overall. I had an 1997, 2001, 2004 and now the 07. Car has a lot more power than any previously. Very roomy for back seat passengers.

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  A GREAT car! With so much too offer! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Robert Walcot - September 2 - 5:16 pm

  I have said for a long time that this is a great car on so many levels. Its a 5 star car with one bad star which is not its fault. Technology. This car was built in late 2005 as a 2006 Avalon XLS. This was before car interior technology has blossomed into what it has become today. So its missing Bluetooth, USB ports and NAV. But for those that remember tape cassettes, CD player and great sound this car rules. This car rules in many other ways too. Spacious interior design. So much so that you can have 5 large adults seated in the car. Both front seat pushed all the way back and those seated in the back will still have ample leg room. And the back seats tilt backward giving those adults a limo like ride. Excellent MPG for such a big car. I regularly get 31 MPG on the highway. The only vehicles that get better gas mileage are hybrids! This Avalon has stayed in great shape and Toyota has maintained it wonderfully. I think the car will run forever!

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  Best car I owned - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Rich Gerenza - August 29 - 4:38 pm

  Best car ever owned

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  Best Avalon yet - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By W Nelson - August 26 - 12:23 pm

  I started buying Avalons in 1995 and this is my 5th one. It is by far the best in amenities, performance, design and fuel economy. The things I would have improved on, from the past models, they addressed and more. I am extremely pleased in every way.

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  Better than expected - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Markku Tuhkala - August 25 - 11:10 pm

  Mileage average is 27 GPM. Seats are very good, material has traction to keep the posture. Engines power is amazing. Gearbox shifts real smoothly and accurately. Toyotas quality follow-up is very strong, I know that they will make sure I stay happy with Avalon.

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  Amazing Vehicle - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Ron - August 25 - 5:10 pm

  Wow! What a car. Have owned it for a month now. Just finished a 1500 mile trip. Smooth, quiet, comfortable. Mileage per tank ranged from 29.5 to 30.8! Incredible for a 280 hp engine. Tremendous room. Awesome passing power which you never even hear in the cabin. Have never owned, or even seen, anything to match this car!

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  Traded a Volvo S-80 T-6 for the Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Patrick G - August 25 - 3:26 am

  My wife and I absolutly love this car. We traded a top of the line Volvo S-80 T-6 and do not regret it a bit. I/we cant say enough about the car. It rides great, handles well and is ALMOST as quick/fast as the twin-turboed S-80. the 12-speaker sound system is far better than that of the Volvo. Simply a great car!

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  Best in its price range ! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Bruce Jackson - August 21 - 11:30 am

  We purchased the limited edition and really love all the bells and whistles that Toyota puts in the car. The ride is very nice . Not as quiet as Lexus but pretty good. Very powerful engine that really delivers when you ask it to. The interior is by far the largest in its class. The back seat room is incredible! This is our second Toyota and will not be the last.

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  05 Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By kawacym - August 21 - 8:00 am

  Toyota finally built a car I can love. Have only had the car for a week and am extremely happy with it. Lots of get up and go without sacrificing creature comforts. Styling is somewhat bland but that is fine with me as it could mean that it wont catch the attention of the highway gestapo quite so easily. This car is a quantum leap better than the 96 Avalon it replaced.