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:
Showing 411 through 420 of 1,746.00-
me - 2011 Toyota Avalon
By gary elswick - October 2 - 8:45 amgo for it it`s a great car
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What a car! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Michele Daye - September 28 - 10:40 amWhen I saw this car, I immediately fell in love with it. Its like driving a Lexus with added extras for $15,000 less. The smooth ride, sleek look, soft preforated leather, laser cruise control, heated and air conditioned sits, automatic rear screen, voice activated navigation system that also controls the radio & CD, calender, push button start up, night sensored rear view mirror with built in garage opener, 12 position seats, 300 watts speakers, 280 horse power engine and the gas mileage of 22/31 mpg amongst dozens of other things below me away.
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Best Avalon Ever - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By John Allen Albree - September 27 - 4:40 amI purchased my 2005 Toyota Avalon XL on 3/16/05. Drove 8 hours to the dealer who gave me a great price and was great to work with. Traded in 2005 Camry XLE V6. The trip home was 456 miles and I registered 29.1mpg on Route 40. Probably the best car I have ever owned. Only options I have is floor mats and custom installed leather by a Chesapeake firm. This a fine automobile and a wonderful car to drive. Dont buy any car in this class without testing the Avalon.
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Radio Malfunction - 2010 Toyota Avalon
By Susie - September 25 - 5:06 pmAM Radio has so much static that you can barely understand. I took it to the dealership 2 times & was told that there was a problem with the design of the antenna & they cant do anything about it. Some reviews online seem to indicate the problem has gone back to 2007.
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The Avalon 2002 - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By JPZ01 - September 25 - 10:00 amThis is the second Toyota and the first Avalon. It handles very well and gives the feeling of driving a Lexus. No regrets upgrading from teh Camray to the Avalon. It really is the flag ship of the Toyota line of autos.
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Toyota Avalon xls - 2004 Toyota Avalon
By Robert Steele - September 22 - 10:00 amSecond Avalon I have owned. First one in 1996 was quality. The 2004 model, is very poor quality. They are making the car cheaply, and poorly. The car is smoking like crazy with only 4,000 miles. With 4 trips to the dealership, they say they cant find any problem. I call smoke on a new $32,000.00 dollar car a problem. Lots of road noise, the front seat does not support your legs. The instruments reflect in the windshield. The radio is full of static, after spending 5 trips to the dealership, they say there is nothing they can do. On a $32,000.00 dollar car, give me a break. Buyer BEWARE
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Forever friend - 1999 Toyota Avalon
By mmars - September 22 - 9:12 amI bought my 1999 Toyota Avalon Platinum XLS in 2006. It had 99000 miles on it and this did not cause me alarm since I have had a Toyota Camry before. My Toyota Avalon now has 187,000 miles on it and is still running strong! I have had to put routine maintenence items, such as brakes, battery, tires, but other than that it is running like the day I bought it. I am looking at trading it off for something newer, not because I need to, just maybe wanting something newer. Trouble I am having is when I test drive other vehicles I am comparing it to my Avalon, so far all the "competitors" have lost. Gas mileage is still 24/28 hwy. Excellent choice and great car!
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cove review - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By smith - September 20 - 10:36 pmThis vehicle gets very good gas mileage. It has very good, get up and go power. With 80,000 miles, we have had no major mechanical incidents. We love the roomy trunk space, as well as the full size spare tire. The one negative: the trunk lid sounds like a piece of tin when one shuts it giving a sense of cheapness. Otherwise, an excellent purchase. Resale value is not yet known but we will know soon.
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very disappointed - 2001 Toyota Avalon
By lumberbrok - September 20 - 10:00 am2 mistakes one for thinking about buying it and the 2nd for doing it. several trips back to dealership (woodgrain-brakes-rotors-dash cracking) 2 front end accidents one with a deer and one with a vehicle at 65 Mph on the interstate and both occurences the air bags have not deployed the last time 09/04/02 the seat belt didnt even lock. Body damage was very severe to the avalon. 5th toyota vehicle we have owned this one has ruint the reputation we are finished with them all together. on a another review that it received a 3 star rating on crash test so this defies my answer to what i think--by the way the ford focus rated higher!
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After 8 Years, Still Love It - 2001 Toyota Avalon
By Happy Camper - September 18 - 12:26 amIve owned my 2001 for 8 years and I still love it. Never had a problem with it after 125,000 miles. Passengers get in it today and remark about how nice and comfortable it is. I liked it so much I purchased another new 2008 Avalon 6 months ago for my wife. I kept the 2001 and use it as my daily driver. The 2001 is still worth 1/3 of my purchase price, but I dont even intend to sell it. Ill probably end up giving it to my grand-daughter to drive when she turns 16 in a couple of years. This has been the best car Ive ever owned, including "S class" Mercedes and 740IL BMW. The only difference is the V-8 performance and the cost was 1/3 the price.
