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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  Well Rounded Sedan - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Ron Moore - September 6 - 12:46 am

  This is my first Toyota! Finally getting away from SUVs. It handles well, and surprised me with the quick acceleration. We bought it for its size, but it gets really good gas mileage! The CD changer is nice, but would have liked the option for the JBL system on the Touring edition. Overall, we are really satisified, lots of features and luxury ... This car is really a Lexus!!

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  The best car I have owned in 25 years. - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Howard - September 5 - 7:06 pm

  I have owned both a new Acura TL & RL in the last 3 years. Both of which are nowhere near the value of this vehicle. I drove 3 other choices 1000 miles each before I purchased this vehicle.

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  Luxury XLS - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By kdsmom - September 4 - 10:00 am

  The Avalon has been an excellent car although I have had it only 1 month. I am teaching my daughter to drive in it. She thinks it is great to drive. It is very smooth and easy to handle. My last vehicle was an SUV so this is a luxurious upgrade!

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  An Outstanding Car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Howard Hatoff - August 25 - 8:50 pm

  The car starts very easily altho there is no key. Holds the road very well.Good display panel. Excellent sound system. Seats are comfortable altho i have not taken any trips as yet longer than 2 hours. Car is very good looking. Has lots of extras. Very roomy front & back. Toyota is very consumer oriented with comfort and performance. This is first Toyota I owned or drove. Good pickup. Gas mileage is good but not great. ABS brakes are excellent.

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  Retired to Florida in comfort - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Jack - August 25 - 4:26 pm

  This is my second Avalon and was not sure at first that I liked the larger interior space. Now we consider the space wonderful, with luxurious features and more power under the hood in the 3.5 engine than I should be trusted with. My big complant is my wife wont drive her sports car, complaining it is not comfortable.

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  Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By goskins0 - August 23 - 3:06 pm

  Plenty of room for head, legs and gut. Seats are comfortable and roomy. Car is extremely quiet and drives well.

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  Love the car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Babe - August 17 - 2:50 pm

  Love the Avalon. Fun to drive, very comfortable, and reliable. The car has lots of leg room, front and back.

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  Paint chipping on hood? - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Whodatt_99 - August 14 - 2:43 am

  Have a 2008 Avalon XLS, dark maroon with cream leather interior. Absolutely beautiful car inside and out. Extremely smooth ride and good horsepower when you need it. Big problem is the paint on the hood. Tiny chips have been appearing and the car only has 11,000 on it. My 2001 Tahoe has zero chips on hood and 136,000 miles on it. Either the paint or the application process is crappy, or maybe the clear coat is too thin. That is my only complaint but it is a big one.

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  Toyota is the Best - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By Best, Reliable Car - August 9 - 4:46 pm

  I bought the XLS brand new in 96 when I was single. Ive since married and had 2 children and today at 189,000 miles my baby is still kickin. I agree with everyone that the maintenance is about $5,000.00 or less because Ive spent around $3,000 so far. What I love the most is the reliability to start in 10-20 degree weather and Ive never had a breakdown ever. Its roomy enough for the kids to hop in/out of their booster seats and at 52" I can adjust the seat forward or up/down to match my body length. I also love the lumbar that adjust nicely. The only thing I miss is a CD player because it was not that big in 96 but I have a personal CD player that kicks when I connect it to my car stereo.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim - August 4 - 8:36 pm

  I bought the car as a Certified Pre- Owned in 11/07 with 16,000 miles on it. I have 49,000 miles now and I absolutely love it! I have not had ANY problems with the car. All it asks for is gas and oil. I had a 2001 Avalon prior to this one and this one is far superior in every way... style, comfort, power, features, reliability. Toyota definitely took the Avalon to the next level! I receive compliments on the car all the time. It is the best luxury car value on the market. I am averaging 23-24 mpg, and routinely get 28-30 mpg on the highway.