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:
Showing 561 through 570 of 1,746.00-
Lots of miles...Running Great - 1997 Toyota Avalon
By BTH - November 26 - 2:00 amI liked it so much, I now own the 2001 model as well. The suspension problem (struts) mentioned in previous reviews was so common on the 97 that Toyota had a service memo to all delearships. My car was repaired (to my surprise)for no fee in 2000 by a toyota dealer after some frequent complaining on my part. That is the extent of my repairs. After 150,000 miles Im selling the car almost regretably and would absolutely reccommend this Avalon to make it to 200,000 miles easy.
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Insearch of.... - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By NRP - November 26 - 2:00 amThe 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 amONE 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 amExtremely 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.
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Love it ..so far - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By rj - November 13 - 4:23 amJust bought a XLS with Nav 1 week ago. Love the car, fun to drive, smooth and comfortable. The nav system is not at the same level of features or usability as some others, but it will get you there, once you figure the functionality out.
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Disappointed - 2008 Toyota Avalon
By cadllac man - November 10 - 3:46 pmAfter 1500 miles our 2006 Toyota Avalon needed a new engine because of a condition know as valve lash. Fitzgerald replaced the car with another new Avalon at no cost to us. We purchased a new 2008 Avalon. After 13,000 miles this engine when first started and driven has begun to make knocking noises. The noise gets lower when the engine warms up. There is nothing that be done. Just hope for the best and change the oil sooner than factory specks.
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Glorious New Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Suburban Toyota - November 9 - 7:36 amThe new Avalon is everything youd want out of a Toyota. Its fast, comfortable, and full of fantastic features.
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couldnt wait - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Bob Hayes - October 30 - 12:10 amThere are some things that were standard on the 2000 model that are no longer on the 2005 model. There is no day and date, the location of the compass on the rear view mirror instead of the dashboard display, the seats dont seem as comfortable, smaller trunk and of course the premium gas requirement. There is no coin holder, the cell phone charger connection doesnt allow the phone to be left in the ready to answer position with the door closed. These may seem petty to some but when you pay as much as they want for this vehicle they are not minor issues to us. With the exception of the above mentioned items I enjoy the vehicle and am not disappointed with the purchase.
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Not many cars offer the blend Avalon has - 2008 Toyota Avalon
By happyowner - October 23 - 6:56 amIf you have a shopping requirement for lots of room, fuel efficiency, 5-star NHTSA ratings all around, Toyota-like reliability & resale value you may find the list is quite short as I did. A 3600lb sedan with true seating for 5, 95mph 1/4 mile trap, and real world 32mpg regular in rural driving seems like a contradiction to me but this car is proof otherwise. Comfort and performance are well documented and all of it is true. Fun to drive of 8 because I find myself looking forward to driving it almost as much as old RX-8. Only 2 things wrong with the car so far if picky: the rain sensing wipers dont activate in misty conditions and the wood panel on driver door is misaligned.
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Finally - 2011 Toyota Avalon
By James Woodruff - October 21 - 4:15 pmLove this car...!!! The look the ride...everything i hoped for.
