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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Loved this car!! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By janet stahel - May 9 - 11:22 pmComfortable, reliable, good looking. Good ride, dependable. Cant beat it!
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Nice and easy - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By RBUCK - May 7 - 12:20 pmThis is a great auto that is as roomy as any ball room. And the gas mileage was better than advertised.
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Unexpectedly Luxurious - 2008 Toyota Avalon
By LZJay - May 5 - 8:16 pmIm a traveling salesman and I used to rent these on the road. Then I decided to buy one cause it was so comfortable and drove so well. Its definitely a big car but it doesnt feel OR handle like one. It handles like more like sport sedan though far from sports coupe. The back seat is huge which is great if you take clients out for meals or have kids who like to kick your seat: their feet dont reach! Love the heated/AC seats and the moon roof. The NAV and LCD screen is great. The trunk is big enough for all of my sales material, a car seat and my golf clubs at the same time. The 7-speaker JBL sound system is great. It has the same look and feel as the Lexus GS but is priced smartly
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Great Car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
By J9 - May 1 - 10:40 amI have had this car for 4 years, and have zero problems. It is quiet, comfy, and a great ride. The design of every little feature makes so much sense. This was my first car that wasnt a GM. I will buy another Avalon after this one. I couldnt be more pleased. I now understand why Toyota is doing so well. Im sold!!
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Luxury in an affordable package - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By Jimbo1 - April 27 - 10:00 amThe Avalon is not going to win any styling awards or be confused with a sport sedan, but with that said, the Avalon has no other weaknesses. If you want to feel your surrounded in luxury and want a comfortable ride that even the best luxury car will be pressed to match. The Avalon is your car. The car is extremely quiet and with the upgraded sound system, its almost like sitting in theater. Toyota reliability and workmanship in a glove leather package.
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Not the same car - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By TEACHER - April 27 - 7:26 amI traded my 2002 Avalon XL in on a 2007 XLS. I wish I had the 2002 back. It was much quieter and had more stability. The 2007 engine is noisy and often clatters like a diesel. Dealership says that is normal?? I just hope that it does not finally fail while I am on a long trip 2000 miles from home. I enjoy driving the car but would feel much more at ease if the engine were not so noisy and the transmission shifted smoother. The rear vision from the car when backing is also very limited. Knowing where the rear of the car is questionable. I like the interior and the entertainment system. Paint also chips very easy. Dealer blamed it on the EPA.
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IM IN LOVE - 2000 Toyota Avalon
By RIC - April 21 - 10:00 amIVE OWNED OVER 20 VEHICLES IN THE LAST DECADE AND A HALF. NEVER HAVE I HAD AS MUCH FUN AS I DO WITH THIS CAR. IT IS RESPONSIVE AND POWERFUL WITH EXCELLENT ROAD MANNERS. I HAVE NO COMPLAINTS !!
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I LOVE THIS CAR! - 2000 Toyota Avalon
By Jonathag - April 20 - 3:56 amI have had this car for about 5 months now, absolutely love it! Fun to drive, reliable, I step on the gas and the pickup is great, comfortable leather seats, just a joy to drive! I thought I would like the heated seats better than I do, but I dont see what the big deal is really. I drive my car all over the state for my job and it performs flawlessly, unmatched Toyota quality. Mine had around 98k when I bought it but you could tell it had been taken care of. My speaker system is a bit flakey, the rear speaker is blown and two of the front speakers go in and out a lot, other than the speakers the car is great. Buy one and you wont regret it! Mpg is around 29-30 hwy and around 21 or so city.
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love it - 2004 Toyota Avalon
By hawkeye - April 16 - 10:00 amI testdrove several cars before deciding on the Avalon. I liked it better than the more expensive Lexus ES300, because the Avalon feels spacier. The nav system is working very well. For destinations that Im familiar with it always picks the best route Ive learned over the years (in quickest mode). Its taught me some new routes when using shortest or alternate mode. The screen is clear under all conditions, being mounted under a slight overhang. The Avalon responds real well, is comfortable/luxurious to drive, and when kicked down really accelerates well for such a large car.
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I like It! - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By mchamp - April 10 - 3:16 amWhile I have only had the car for a few days, it has been great. It is a quiet, smooth and comfortable ride. It seems to be doing well on MPG but not quite what I expected (lower then expected). I also like the fact that you only need to do an oil change every 5,000 miles. This should help in cost (if other cars are still needing to do it every 3,000 miles). My Avalon has so far exceded my expectations.
