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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  2007 Avalon Limited - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Joe - June 10 - 11:33 am

  Fantastic vehicle for the price. Power and economy are much better than my previous Cadillacs. 12V power outlets need to be better placed and memory stearing wheel needs to be added on entry and exit. We have had a problem with the windshield washer reservoir leaking fluid on two ocassions during the first year. The hose keeps coming loose from the reservoir. This is an extremely quiet vehicle that gets 27+ mpg on the road and 22+ all around. Fun car to drive and the ride is as good as anything on the market.

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  Best car I have ever owned - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Gene - June 9 - 11:40 am

  I have owned over an estimated fifty (50) cars in my life time and this Avalon is the best. My last seven have been Toyota including three (3) trucks. This car is an engineering marvel. I love the ride, gas mileage, rooming, security, everything is easy to get at. Folks, Toyota has done it again, THE BEST.

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  A few things that I would change... - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Cathy - June 6 - 8:03 pm

  Park far away because any door that hits into this car, you will get knicked. Gas mileage averages 20MPG and the best 25, not what its rated at. Inside compartments get stuck sometimes. Passenger seat doesnt have many options. Kids love the back seat (reclining), but when left reclined, its not comfortable getting into. Trunk space should be more. Im keeping my van for family trips longer then 3 hours. I love riding in it & navigation is pretty easy. I dont have a problem with voice commands, but system doesnt like my husbands voice for some reason. (He doesnt have an accent, just a lower voice then mine!) Sometimes it takes several attempts.

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  2006 Avalon is SOLID! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By David - June 2 - 11:50 pm

  This car is a solid all around and I am very impressed with the performance so far. Build quality is top notch and this car feels like a Lexus inside. Gas mileage is great out of the box. I feel very safe in this car with the optional stability control. Its not a BMW, but this car has exceeded my expectation by far.

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  Excellent - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Raj - May 30 - 7:26 am

  Ive been driving my Avalon XLS for past 4 yrs. Already put 95,00 miles on it. It drives more than a Lexus,280 HP - decent power and great fuel efficiency (Ive got once close 32 mpg).

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  Avalon XLS with Navigation - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By mbaxter - May 29 - 9:50 pm

  Great car, enjoy using the voice activation to control radio, AC and CD player. Nagivation system, takes some time to learn, but it has been great for mapping out points of interest, ie: golf courses, restaurants. Edmunds site was a great help in getting the best price.

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  Great Ride & very smooth - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Frank Epps - May 22 - 8:06 am

  First Avalon & really like to drive. Exterior could be jazzed up. Interior is tough to beat for features & comfort.

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  Excellent Avalon Toyota - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By givd - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Performace is very good, side mirrors have to be redigned, too big. rear tailights not the most appealing. Windshield wipers on high speed shake the entire car when idiling

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  16 years 199,400 miles - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Dave - April 27 - 3:38 am

  Cant say enough about this car. Purchased new. Until last year no problems whatsoever. Regular maintanance only; brakes, shocks, tires, belts, ect. This past year bearings, power steering pump. Will run it until it is no longer financially prudent. By far the best car Ive ever owned. Q

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  My Avalon on its 6th birthday - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By jhon - April 20 - 7:47 pm

  The car lives up to its reputation as a "poor mans Lexus".