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:

• 

  Dont leave home without your garmin gps - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By Glenn - June 12 - 11:07 am

  First - I traded in a 2011 Avalon Limited and would give anything to have it back. I assumed I was buying the same same. WRONG Cramped drivers seat. Low profile tires give you a terrible ride. Road noise is bad. GPS is a joke and I was to get it updated will cost you around $300.00. Thinking of going back to a Buick as soon as I can.

• 

  Quality car - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Toyota Avalon xl - June 5 - 5:30 pm

  If you want a quality large sedan, this Avalon is your car! This one has a bench seat which gives you more front seat room; wish they were still made with bench seats. I will hang onto this one because is has one, instead of purchasing a new one. I have had no mechanical problems at all. The car drives very smooth and has great pick up. The love the back end look, the exterior front is kind of boring.

• 

  Happy despite initial problem - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By jjdm - June 5 - 5:56 am

  Have read a number of reviews on this car. Some related a noisy engine, mine sounded like a diesel all of a sudden at 1500 miles. The dealership told me they had never had this problem before. They were extremely accommodating, replacing the engine without a second thought. They provided a brand new car as a loaner and treated us very well. Since the new engine the car runs very well with little engine noise. The rest of the car is phenomenal. The car is a huge upgrade from our 1997 Avalon, for only a couple thousand more than we paid for the 97. It is definitely the most comfortable car I have driven. The Touring edition was worth getting with the upgrades in suspension. I would buy another.

• 

  Steering Wheel always unlocking! - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By Mimi - May 26 - 10:00 am

  What a great disappointment with my 2009 Toyota Avalon limited. This is my first and last Toyota. Had the mat / sticking pedal situation be disclosed earlier when known, I would NEVER have gotten this car. My steering wheel unlocks a couple of times a week. Brought into service center and they couldnt find anything wrong! Driving along and steering wheel just drops!! Tried to get rid of car but no one wants it!! I thought Toyota held his value but with all the problems lately, its a 50% sale for trade-ins! Going to get rid of it as soon as I can!

• 

  harsh ride derails a good car - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By maliblues1 - May 22 - 1:14 pm

  Previous Avalon owners will be shocked at how harsh the ride of 2013 Avalon is. Small bumps are transmitted as sharp kicks into the cabin. Road noise is also pronounced on worn asphalt roads. The style of the car makes a rear view camera a must, however its an option. the camera is standard on the Honda accord. Headlights also have a sharp cutoff that makes reading some road signs difficult. The touch sensitive switches make it to easy to activate the wrong control.

• 

  Nice car spoiled by junk suspension - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By PMOT - May 22 - 2:00 am

  Nice, but not exciting, car with cheap clunky suspension. I didnt expect sporting suspension, but rather, a nice quiet ride. But every bump brings a symphony of clunks and rattles from the front and rear suspension. Unacceptable in a car in this class (Hyundai Sonata does a better job). Great mileage with high test in the tank (30mpg @ 75-80 on the Mass Pike). Reasonable performance. The 3 disk CD changer gets "tired" after several hours of play. Looks like most of the other homely, expensive Japanese sedans (except for Nissan now). Should have kept looking for a Maxima SE! You should too!

• 

  What a car! - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Bug - May 21 - 10:00 am

  As a two time Camry owner and lover, I was ready to move to a larger, more luxurious car. The Avalon stole my heart immediately and still has it. Its larger and so comfortable, pretty and classy. You hardly even know youre driving, its more like sitting at home in a comfortable chair. It handles better than any car Ive ever driven. Great visability. The XLS has plenty of bells and whistles, plenty of pampering. Top it all off with Toyota dependability. The only flaw is that I know of Toyotas buckeling under to Jesse Jacksons extortion tactics.

• 

  Great car for the money - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By JBP - May 19 - 4:50 am

  Everything I expected, gets more comfortable with use. Fun to drive, lots of toys (nav) or just "think" in a quiet, smooth ride. Sporty to drive and comfortable on long drives.

• 

  Best car I have ever owned - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By L Gigante - May 15 - 9:56 am

  Great power, economy and comfort. Lots of nice features and well thought out. Sharp looking but not gaudy.

• 

  First Toyota - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By MD-80 - May 14 - 2:56 pm

  So far so good. Car seems dependable but not without its problems. Fuel mileage is not as stated (less than what Toyota claims). Takes several attempts to open the cover for radio and Nav, (have to push the buttons numerous times to open the cover). Nav is difficult due to having to use the "Enter" button constantly, older models were more intuitive. Difficult to find garage opener buttons on rear view mirror at night since they are not illuminated (neither are the buttons for the rear shade, trunk and fuel cap). Needs body side molding desperately to prevent dings and dents!