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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  Worthwhile Avalon notes - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Richard Gaines - September 30 - 2:00 pm

  The 05 Avalon is a fantastic automobile. It is powerful, comfortable and a joy to drive. We just came back from a 1500 mile trip, loaded down with a trunk full and two full sized adults in front. Speeds were in the range of 75 to 80 and our mpg was 27 on average. I could easily make the rated 31 with a lighter weight and speed below 70. The only problem was the door to the CD player/am/fm stuck closed the entire 8 days. It worked fine for a day after we returned then failed to open again.One thing to be careful of is the very low curb clearance below the front bumper. There should be a replaceable rub strip along the bottom. I left a lot of "Blizzard Pearl" paint on an Applebees high curb.

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  Best Car We Have Owned--So Far! - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Sailorbob - September 30 - 10:00 am

  This is the nicest, and most expensive, car we have ever purchased. I liked the prior years exterior styling a lot more. This is also the first Toyota we have owned, so we bought because of the brands history of reliability and not due to past experience. Is the car over-priced? Time will tell, but so far it has been worth the money.

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  More for the $ - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By DeMolay - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Looks great, rides better. All sorts of room. A Lexus like approach to design and quality at a much lower price. Great for highway driving. I am sold and will go back for another when time to trade

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  terrific car that is let down by poor service - 2015 Toyota Avalon
  By Jimmy Drew - September 24 - 8:24 pm

  This car is the poor mans Lexus for sure. The ride and handling and power are excellent. The interior is nice but could be better. Research the price... my car was $40K and I walked out with it selling for $36K. Be sure and do your research....

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  A Bentley couldnt make me more proud - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Lou - September 23 - 5:03 pm

  We took possession of our Avalon LXS on 11/30/05. We have always owned Buicks but did not care for the exterior look of their new cars. We saw an 05 Avalon in a parking lot and both the exterior and interior blew us away and we knew this would be our next new car. We absolutely love this car and if we had any criticism it would be that the ride is not as smooth as my 1997 Buick Century.

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  great car - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By pphill - September 23 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle for comfort, power and economy. Performs well in mountains without downshifting on upgrades. Drives like a sportscar with flat, sure tracking and cornering. Maintenance is negligible and at 132,000 it still does not use any oil but has a very, very minor oil drip (probably from a valve cover gasket).

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  Better than my Caddy - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Guyaurora - September 21 - 7:03 pm

  I replaced a 2002 DTS with this Avalon Limited. It is light years ahead of the caddy. Ride,detail, handling. I have everything except nav because I use a portable GPS. The laser cruise control is awesome once you get use to it. I will have the body side molding installed once Toyota finds a new vendor. We also own a 2002 Highlander and Toyota quality and service cannot be matched. This is the best value on the road for a quality full size vehicle. I have driven the lexus and aside from expensive options this car is as good as if not better than the Lexus. I also love the fact I dont have to carry my keys only the fob to open and start the car.

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  Keep what you have when you buy great the first ti - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By D. Capstick - September 12 - 2:59 am

  The 2006 Toyota Avalon Limited is a fantastic vehicle. Super great ride, loads of head and leg room and great on the highway for long road trips. Now have 180,000 miles on the original motor/transmission and never a problem. Just followed the recommended maintenance for the vehicle. Wife and I have made many long long road trips in all kinds of weather and never had a problem. Vehicle has been in about 35 different states and rarely even look under the hood to check if everything is OK. Change the oil and filter at 5,000 miles and keep great tires on it and just go when every we take the notion. Why ride in a little car when these great older vehicles cost less to purchase and last longer. No need to "upgrade" every 2-4 years. Just keep a great vehicle and keep driving it. I intend to keep this Toyota Avalon Limited for another 5-8 years and go for the 250,000 miles mark.

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  Toyota Avalon-2004 - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Warren - September 11 - 5:36 am

  Excellent quality. 3.0L engine may be a little small, but, still a good performer. In 2005, Toyota did put a 3.5L engine in the Avalon. The only real negative is the exterior design. It looks like a box coming down the road.

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  The Car that Could - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Dr. G - September 9 - 12:20 am

  Love the car. Have 9000 miles on it, great gas mileage (22/31 as stated), great ride and lumbar support, etc., comfortable although somewhat noisy. Great get up and go. Looks more expensive than final price. Some harsh noise when on a rougher road. Make sure that you get the aftermarket side door protectors and mud flaps. Has saved my paint. Paint chips very easily, especially when someone attempts to open their door to full-width in a parking lot. Had trouble with air conditioner.. took dealer two weeks to get part and fix it. Had new Camry during that time to drive. No comparison... Avalon much better. Also be aware that the front bumper is low and you can knock airdam off.