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 kept secret ever - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By avylvr - August 18 - 3:13 pm

  I traded in a junk Buick in Dec of 2012 for my beautiful 2004 one owner, all service records, 72,000 mile Avalon. I had read reviews which appeared it was a good car and man were they right. Its been growing on me, I love this car. I commute 120 miles round trip a day so now Im at 124,000 miles and this car still feels like it came off the showroom floor. I sunk about $1500 into it with new Pirelli tires, new front rotors and brakes all the way around, new rear wheel bearing, transmission service and of course the timing belt/water pump maintenance. Im going for 400k miles. It was well taken care of before me by a little old lady and I will continue to do the same.

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  One year update with my 2000 Toyota Avalon. - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By hondaacura21 - August 9 - 1:16 am

  Its been exactly a year since I bought my 2000 Toyota Avalon XLS from a private sale. I purchased it with 124,000 miles and its been very reliable with not a single problem. It is really impressive that my 13 year old Avalon still provides a silky smooth drive and is very quiet even compared to never cars. This Avalon is a "poor mans" Lexus. I drove 26K miles in this year: 450 miles a week due to work, a 1750 road trip from GA to TX, and 7000 miles of small mountain trips. Even with both leaky valve cover gaskets, leaky cam seals, old timing belt and water pump and blown struts this Toyota has never left me stranded and drove excellent. Before I give this to my mom I will repair it.

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  Well designed - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Bake - August 5 - 7:53 pm

  I have the Limited model. Love driving this car. Its comfortable and quiet. Laser cruise control is great. Handling is good and responsive. The engine performance is good and not too loud even opened up. I recommend reading the manual for all the tricks (like linking each keyfob and the memory settings).

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  Best car I ever bought - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By AZF - August 5 - 12:33 am

  We had an 05 Buick LaCrosse which was a piece of junk, and traded for on 06 Avalon Limited. The Avalon is the best car I have ever owned. Fit and finish is outstanding, gas mileage is terrific. The ride is smooth and quiet. I have friends that are over 250lbs and they can get in and be comfortable. I had the windows tinted- pin stripped-gold plated the emblems and put chrome wheels on it. People think it is a Lexus. People should test drive the vehicle or take it home overnight, then they would know if they like the car or not. I will buy another Avalon.

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  Best buy for your money - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By scottyinco - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Larger than a Lexus ES300. This car is a dream. Everything fits together perfectly (made in Kentucky, btw). No problems in the 89000 miles on my car. Still runs like new.

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  MY NEW LOVE - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By ABC - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I have driven Volvos, when I needed a new car I did research and rather than going back to my first love, I decided on this Avalon. Im happy I got it, it feels safe, it is reliable, and is a very good looking car. Has all of the features I wanted, would have liked to have navigation, perhaps Toyota will add this in the future.

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  Great Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By kloogee - July 25 - 12:13 am

  So far this has been a great car. It is very spacious inside, has great power, and rides very smoothly. After a recent long distance trip, we all felt very fresh after a long day traveling. City MPG seems like it could be a bit better but is probably a result of my heavy foot. Highway mileage while in cruise control is good. With 5 passengers (4 large adults and a small child) plus a trunk stuffed completely full, we were averaging nearly 30 MPG while cruising steadily.

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  Big Ed from Plymouth - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By BigEd - July 24 - 12:06 am

  A pleasure to drive. Handles very well with plenty of power. Get the GPS navigation system. Its a must!

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  Owner profile LIMITED EDITION with Nav. - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike O - July 21 - 6:06 am

  Unable to obtain the 31 mpg unless driving on an un-impeded highway. Low speed (up to 15 m.p.h.) engine noise, high speed--excessive tire noise. Lighting on some controls not adequate or not available on some of the controls at all. Learning the navigation system is extremely difficult. My prior car was an Acura TL-S type with NAV. It was much easier to learn and operate. Side door and panels have no ding protection.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned! - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By The Professor Bill - July 21 - 2:00 am

  The title says it all -- its the best! I get about 26 MPG, great comfort, more head room than my old Lincoln, lots of rear seat room. The trunks not as big as the Lincolns, but its bigger than my friends cars trunks. I am enthusiastically a pro- Avalon affectionato!