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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  Toyota is the best - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By THE1 - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I love the Avalon!

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  Not a Lexus - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By robert Sobieski - October 21 - 2:00 am

  This is not the Luxury car I had hoped to get, dash is not driver friendly, should have radio/heater control on steering wheel, seats not comfortable, 4 way power seats does not give enough adjustment for comfort, computer on dash is big and ugly,lighting doesnt even match rest of controls ,needs a clock so you can leave computer off, wouldnt buy again,will trade for Lexus VERY SOON

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  Avalon Limited - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Raymond Soristo - October 20 - 12:36 pm

  I seriously considered a Lexus 350 EX but the premium fuel factored with a trouble free 148K on the 2001 turned me back to the 2008 Avalon Limited. Size and comfort are unbeatable.

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  Disappointed with a reliable name! - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By Robert M. - October 15 - 10:00 am

  Got this car about two years ago and have had a lot problems! great performance and comfort. very expensive to maintain. problems from first day of purchase! first year went through 5 break jobs! terrible front- end design. problems with front shocks and alignment, eventhough the vehicle has never been in an accident! very expensive to maintain! would never buy another one!

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  2000 Avalon Rattles - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By brownstone - October 15 - 10:00 am

  My 2000 avalon is an american car,Toyota is no longer japanese.The performance of this car above average.It has good power and acceleration.It is very comfortable and spacious.I havent had the car very long.This car could really use some interior inhancements.Riding on textured roads the inside rattles so bad you can not take peacful ride with the stereo off.The rattles are terrible.I have it at the dealership twice,they cant seem to quite the rattles.The car handles well,quite at highway speeds.Had to get the rotors turned.The car has only 38000 mi.The car accelerates abrutly out of turns.

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  2003 toyota avalon xls - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By rule - October 15 - 10:00 am

  Great automobile to drive. Good comfort and very quiet on the road. Excelent quality thruout the vehicle.

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  Great Car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Old Body - October 12 - 7:10 pm

  We just returned from a round trip from Kentucky to Sun City, Az. The car was loaded heavily for our three month stay. The overall mileage going and coming was 29.96 mpg. We have been Lincoln Town Car owners for years and the seats of the Avalon fit our bodies better than the Lincolns.

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  Loss of engine oil - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Joe - October 9 - 3:46 pm

  Same thing happened to my Avalon . No light no warning. Dealer said just made it in before the engine went. Happened to our friend with the same car. Do not understand why Toyota has not done a recall if this is happening with a lot of Avalons. Took almost three weeks for parts to come in. But the gave us a loner car. Love the car this is our first Avalon and will not be our last.

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  Approaching 200k - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Houston Commuter - October 9 - 10:00 am

  After having bought the Avalon used in 99 with 40K, I have yet to have a major repair. Recommened maintenance, brakes, tires & time belts yes but no major repairs. Now approaching 200k with this track record ... why would I consider anything else.

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  toyota avalonxls - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By bobw - October 9 - 10:00 am

  Rides as good or better than wifes lexus. also has more head-room than the lexus. It is fun to drive and handles well. Have had no mechanical breakdowns in 73,000 miles. Didnt have to get breaks for over 60,000 miles. Most comfortable and fun car as well as most reliable that I have ever owned.