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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  Hard seats and ride leave me stiff - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Herb - December 14 - 2:40 am

  Toyota has turned Avalon into another sport sedan. Gone is the cushy suspension and soft leather seats of the last version. Now you feel and hear every bump on the road. The drivers seat is very hard and uncomfortable. Im squirming after 15 minutes. There are many wonderful improvements in the new Avalon. But the navigation system is poor. It is archaic with the joystick and its linked to vehicle information. You must change the screen for each type of info. The information is in very small print. For my tastes, I wish the comfort level matched the quality in the rest of the car. Suspension is a matter of taste, but Toyota doesnt provide that option. It is hard or harder.

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  A Lexus in Toyota Clothing - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jeff - December 13 - 12:16 pm

  I 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 pm

  After 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 am

  We 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 pm

  this vehicle is every bit as nice as driving my ls 400,with the added bennefit of much better mileage.

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  135,000 Miles and Wont Part With It! - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By HustonAerosFan - November 29 - 4:36 am

  The best car I have ever owned. There is nothing on the market now that can replace it - especially in the area of looks (Toyotas new offerings - including the new "2006" Avalon - are SOOO ugly!). I have passed 135,000 miles on this vehicle and am hoping for at least 200,000. Very little has gone wrong with this car outside of normal wear and tear and auxillary things like batteries and tires that Toyota has nothing to do with. Significant repairs lately were a new steering rack last month (leaking seals) and a complete brake job last year. Other than that, routine replacements. It will be a very hard and sad day when I trade this guy in!

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  Paint Problem - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By patc12 - November 28 - 3:36 pm

  I purchased a 2001 Avalon new. I love this car but have one major problem. The paint on the hood is peeling. I contacted Toyota and they claim there have been no other complaints about this model having a paint issue. Anyone else out there have a 2001 with this issue? The other issue I have is with the sensors. I have replaced all or most of them and the check engine light remained on after the last replacement. This issue gets very expensive!

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  Bad Paint - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Darren - November 27 - 12:00 pm

  I have had this car and Three other Toyotas They started out good and keep getting worse. This car isnt a year old and the paint on the metal and the paint on the plastic are different colors now. I am sure it will get worse, but what are you suppose to do? The factory paint is way better than some person can do by hand. I wont let them touch the car... If it was a quality car, this would have never happened. Toyota has got to big and cares only about money, the thing the brought down ford and Chevy. By the way, mine is Silver, Stay away from the Silver ones. My past Toyotas were all Silver and had no problems. It just goes to show you where the quality is going.... down down down down..

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  Great Bang for the Buck! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By MBCBN - November 25 - 1:30 pm

  Great automobile for the money! The Avalon has many standard features that are extra in comparable models. The gas mileage is excellent. Highway 31+ City & Highway 23-27 MPG. The large car handles well with plenty of room for passengers. The vehicle is definitely worthy of the Lexus name, with the value and dependability of Toyota.

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  Improvements and Upgrades - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By El Supremo - November 21 - 4:13 am

  Toyota has upgraded the vehicle significantly. I have previously owned a 1996 and 2000 XLS models. My biggest complaints are the seats are not as comfortable as the 2000 model and the laser cruise control backs the speed down when approaching the rear of another vehicle without regard to what is behind your vehicle. I dont see the practicality of the rear window sunshade.