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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  A smooth ride - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Hunter - January 8 - 9:03 pm

  As my BMW 330i lease was coming to an end, I learned that a second kid was on the way. I knew I needed something bigger, but I did not want to give up sportiness, power, etc., completely. I checked out a lot of vehicles, including the Charger, Altima SE-R, Azera and Maxima. Bottomline, the Avalon Touring easily offered the best combination of things I was looking for in a new car. It has power, acceleration, decent handling (you can take moderate turns aggressively), room, comfort, good gas mileage, Toyota reliability... and, the interior of the Touring is sporty. I hate fake wood trim and probably would not have purchased a different trim if the Touring did not exist.

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  Best Luxury Buy on the market! - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Bruce Allen - January 8 - 9:36 am

  The Avalons ride is superb, but it still retains excellent handling, performance and braking. Fuel consumption is very close to "as stated". The Avalon is the best kept secret in the industry; it is a superb luxury car with great fuel economy, performance and excellent resale.

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  Great Car - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By aj60 - December 31 - 10:00 am

  I went in looking for a Toyota Highlander (own one) and came out with the Avalon. I purchased the ES model with only option being power seats . The dealership, price, But more importantly the Car sold me.

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  Just got it and love it - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By Bennett - December 19 - 9:16 pm

  Recently purchase XL model without any extras. Doesnt matter as it came with everything and more than I needed. I really like the clean center console. With the audio controls on the steering wheel I leave all the compartments closed for a clean sleek uncluttered look. We took our first trip with our new Avalon and averaged over 32 mpg at 75 mph. Just came out of a F150 so I really appreciate the gas mileage. Also, recently had 5 adults in the car. My back seat passengers were amazed by the leg room. I also like the seats. They are not the sporty type with built up sides that you find in most cars today. Basically this is a Japanese Sedan DeVille.....

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  Nicest Car I Have Ever Owned - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By reel_freak - December 18 - 8:40 pm

  A great car. Fit and finish are superb. When the door shuts, you feel encapsulated in your own world. Our three daughters love the back seat and think the reclining feature is the coolest thing. Im impressed with fuel economy thus far. After 1000 miles, I am averaging 26 MPG city/highway. The engine has plenty of power, but the transmission seems to search for the proper gear when the gas pedal is mashed. Not an unsafe feeling, but car seems uncertain of how or when to shift. Ride is smooth and quiet. Despite being the Touring model, I wouldnt consider this a sports sedan. However, handling for a car this size is adequate. I do wish it had an integrated compass. Very happy overall.

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  Comfort Plus - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Doug - December 13 - 9:33 am

  Have had my Limited for a couple of weeks now and cant believe the quiet comfort and smooth ride even compared to the 2005 Limited I traded in. Beautiful car

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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By bob - December 4 - 4:53 am

  The car has been a joy to own. I intend to purchase a new one at the beginning of the new model year. Gas, oil, lube and tires have been the only expense in operating the vehicle.

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  Insearch of.... - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By NRP - November 26 - 2:00 am

  The wife and I spent several months debating between a Lexus GS 300 and the Avalon. Recently at a Annual Tent Sale we test drove the dealers 2003 Avalon, we both fell in love with the leather and interior design. Never got a chance to test drive the GS 300 because we were afraid of the sale price for an equivalent year and milage. This car is a joy to drive and most of all our two kids "love it."

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  TRIP COMPUTOR - RADIO CONTROLS - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By LHAND615 - November 24 - 10:00 am

  ONE OF THE IMPORTANT POINTS OF BUYING THIS CAR WAS THE DASH DISPLAY. I WAS REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO THE TRIP DISPLAY. IMAGE MY SURPRISE WHEN I FOUND OUT THAT THE COMPUTOR RESETS ITSELF EVERY TIME THE INGITION SWITCH IS TURNED OFF. HOW CAN YOU TAKE A LONG TRIP AND FIGURE OUT HOW WAS THE AVERAGE SPEED,TIME,GAS CONSUMSION. I AM TALKING TO MY DEALER AND IF I CANT GET AN ANSWER I WILL BE IN CONTACT WITH TOYOTA. THERE SHOULD BE RADIO CONTROLS ON THE STEERING WHEEL.

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  May get car of the year - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By KMurray - November 15 - 3:06 am

  Extremely quiet, great ride, enjoy the power of the 280 hp engine..it really moves,got 31.66 mpg at 78 mph,we need that kind of mileage today, I liked the car before but did not like the style ... the new look is much better ... even got two exhaust pipes at the rear, transmisson up shifts are perfect but down shifts could be improved in 1st and 2nd.