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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  Best Car I Ever Owned - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By JimG - March 20 - 7:43 pm

  My Avalon has been a dream come true. The car has been flawless and I have gotten over 34 mpg on the highway. I have no problems with interior noise as others have complained. I have had the vehicle for over a year and the only time it has been in the shop is for oil change. The push button start is great. I get annoyed when I have to take the keys out to start my other vehicle. My wife and I took it on a 800 mile trip to VA and the ride was very comfortable. I give the Avalon the highest rating.

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  Awesome! - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By Kalan - March 20 - 2:00 am

  A truly tremendous car. For a used car it cant be beat! I love it. I have owned 28 vehicles and this is great!

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  GM To Toyota - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Roland - March 16 - 3:16 pm

  For 30 years ive owned nothing by GM products..My wife talked me into buying the 07 Toyota Avalon and Im glad she did. I was about to buy a Buick Lucerne but after driving the Avalon it was no contest. I do think the Lucerne has more of a "plush" ride, but the Avalon rides very well also. Other that, no comparison. Avalon blows the Lucerne away in every other dept. More power, better gas mileage, much much nicer inside, and in my opinion the Toyota is a very well made vehicle. You can tell that just by closing the door. Solid!. And of course theres Toyotas reputation on dependability. My only dissappointment is that I waited so long to swith over to a Toyota. So far I love this car

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  best buy for my money - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Christopher - March 8 - 3:50 am

  If I was given the money to buy a more expensive luxury car I would still choose the Avalon and keep the extra money. I might choose Touring with more options. The gas mileage has been great Regularly 32-34 mpg sometimes 37 mph hwy and 29 mpg city. Size is great for a family & reliability of the car has been excellent with no down time besides regular maintenance & oil changes. After buying 3 cars from Bob Smith Toyota they gets our families "kudos" in total satisfaction from sales to service. During my driving history (9 vehicles, 4 new) and driving over 25 years there has been no better dealership!!! The Avalon is tops for Economy, Safety, Reliability, Comfort, and looks.

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  Lexus Wana Be - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Lesie for less - March 5 - 10:16 pm

  Going from an LS 430 to the Avalon was a no brainer at half the price the ride is similar. The interior is bigger, just as comfortable for the driver with all the same toys as LS 430 with the nav, cooling seats and laser cruise, regular gas and wow wow wow what a gas mileage - 24 overall current on 87 octane cooooooollll. Dont push the trunk button while driving, the trunk will open, bad fault. Its too close to the rear sun blocking auto privacy screen.Overall its a buy-it for sure.

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  2011 Avalon - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Bill - March 3 - 4:13 pm

  Ive had a 1999 Avalon for the last 8 years, so Im already a fan of the brand. Ordered the Avalon from the dealer, requesting Cypress Pearl/Ivory with upgraded stereo and 5 pc mat set only. It ended up taking a little over 2 months from order date, 45 days if youre counting from build date. The car was definitely worth waiting for. The thing that strikes me most is the quietness in the cabin, whether on a city street, county road, or highway. The quality of workmanship is excellent. The exterior is pleasing yet not exactly attention grabbing true, but I dont really need attention, didnt buy the car for that. The interior is more important to me, and Im very happy with that.

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  love our toyota - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By wilsons - March 3 - 10:00 am

  rides smooth, for 4 cylinder has good pick up, good gas mileage around town

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  avalon touring review - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By suzanne collins - February 22 - 10:06 pm

  the touring is easy to drive, comfortable and eye appealing. The gas mileage is very good. This car is fun to drive.

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  This one I like - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Per - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Intended to buy a Camry from 2001 ended up with Avalon Touring. Already at test driving the car, it had similar features as my Volvo V70. A nice smooth ride. After only one week of driving, I have found the MPG (Vs. listed on websites) much better. So far I have been averaging 28.7 in combined city and highway driving! This is not from the dash-info, but personal log. All features working perfectly. Never thought I would become a Toyota owner, I am happy with this one!!

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  horseys avalon - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By horsey bjornsen - February 21 - 9:40 pm

  Very reliable vehicle, good in city and on the road. Excellent mileage. Somewhat noisy rear end, sort of a whining sound, noticeable only to regular driver. Only repair other than normal maintenance was replacement of transmission sensor; $350.