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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  Great Luxury Car for the Money - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Howard - September 9 - 4:30 pm

  Driving in comfort; lots of power and pick up, yet economical and affordable.

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  I love Avolon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Peter Farell - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Toyota is a very fun car to ride in.It is a real family or older peoples car. It is vert safe yet comfertable and reliable

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  Great Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By bigrighter - September 4 - 6:20 am

  I own a 2003 XLS with navigation system. I drive over 30,000 miles per year. Very comfortable car and extremly reliable. I would purchase another one.

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  Love it! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Cindy C. - September 1 - 1:00 pm

  I really love this car. It is affordable luxury...a pleasure to drive. The only thing I could complain about is the day after a long trip I washed my car and (barely noticeable) yellow bug guts stained the bumper. The dealership said that just happens and if they repainted, it would just hapen again. I would think paint finishes today would not have that problem, so I was disappointed to say the least in product and response. Also, occasionally when the automatic transmission is shifting down it "jumps". The dealership said the cars computer would work it out within 10k miles...not impressed again by the response I got, as it was getting worse at 8k miles. But, its still my dream car.

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  WOW! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By George Hanover - August 31 - 4:16 pm

  I was happy with my Avalon XLS in 1996, liked my 99 Platinum Edition better, and was even more pleased with my 2002 XLS. But my new 2005 Limited is over the top. Sporty, comfortable, fun to drive, plenty of zip, the best Avalon mileage yet, and every bell and whistle imaginable, including Smart-key entry. I used to call them "the poor mans Lexus." Ill take my 05 Limited over the new GS Lexus.

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  Toyota Avalon A good car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By mholi - August 31 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Avalon in 2000 with 8,000 miles on it. I was impressed by the smooth ride and the comfort of this vehicle. Two tall adult 6 fit in the back seat comfortably and three adults can fit in the back seat with no problem. I had to have my brakes replaced several times. Overall if given the choice I would buy the avalon again. I have taken several trips and the smooth comfortable ride makes the avalon a good choice. Would I would buy another avalon in the next few years? Definitely if the brakes were better. If the brakes are not better I may make a different choice.

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  What a GREAT Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Russ - August 30 - 6:20 pm

  The new body and interior are fabulous. The 05 is bigger, roomier, and gutsy beyond simliar model cars. I have a 95 Avalon with 230,000 that has been handed down to my son; car runs like a top. If you know anything about Toyota reliablity you know its second to none. This purchase broke one of my rules of normally buying year old, but when I saw this car, and then drove this car there was no turning back. There are serveral clever creature comforts inside and the 285hp make this a truly fun car to drive.

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  Superb car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Michio Takahashi - August 29 - 4:13 am

  Very nice smooth and quiet ride with plenty of "muscle". Large trunk space; dash board very well laid out. The audio components and systems are excellent with both CD and tape player. Anticipating the excellent maintenance and service of the Toyota vehicles and so far, I am experiencing it. The "hi-tech" rear view mirror with garage door opener, gate opener and its auto-dimming feature is a nice feature. The gas cap release and trunk opener conveniently placed in this model. A lot of improvements over the 2000 Toyota Avalon that I had and excellent trade in value that it had when I bought the present Avalon.

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  Love this car - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By SLK - August 28 - 10:00 am

  We test drove this vehicle and fell in love with it. Didnt even bother with two other models with which we were comparing. The ride was smooth and noise free....two things that were on our list of wants. Almost a year later and we still think its a great piece of machinery!

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  LEONIDISS REVIEW - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By LEONIDIS - August 28 - 10:00 am

  The car is extremely reliable and a pleasure to drive. It is comfortable, responsive, and has all amenities.