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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  I love my Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Jambeck - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is the second Avalon I have owned. I love it for the comfort, roomyness, especially the trunk. I go for long trips and enjoy the comfort. I can pack an enormous amount in the trunk.

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  Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By alyschof - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is our second Avalon and we have been pleased with the reliability of this car. Our first Avalon was four years old and the interior looked like new when we traded it in. There is plenty of leg and head room in both the front and the back. It is very comfortable for those long trips.

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  Best for the Money - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By livcab - August 28 - 10:00 am

  For the money, the Toyota Avalon is the best possible car to purchase. Its style matches any Lexus and the interior is actually more roomy. The trunk is more roomy than any other except the Lincoln.

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  Bad front end Car is "2002 model" - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike Collins - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This car is very over-rated based on price and reliabilty. The car has road noise, wind noise from exterior mirrors, and we have had excessive front end problems. I will never buy one of these again, for the price $33,000, should have bought a Lexis, Acura, or simular designed vehicle.

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  Love my Avalon - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By JJ@Santee - August 26 - 10:00 am

  Comfort of a large luxury sedan with the peformance of a sports sedan. Ive driven 43000 miles in 20 months and the reliability and performance have been extraordinary. Routine oil changes, tire rotations, etc.... My next car will also be an Avalon.

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  Great car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Johanna - August 22 - 4:46 am

  Like the car. You have to push it thru corners though, not a natural feel. Nice interior, very roomy. Average 27 mpg. Good trunk space. Drove in northern Vt. this winter and handled well on all-seasons . Nice surprise.

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  Quite Impressed - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By mrjohn - August 20 - 2:13 pm

  Was originally looking at Acura TLs and Infiniti G35s, but the extra space and better fuel economy of the Avalon won me over. I am just amazed that Toyota can take a 280 hp engine and still get 31 mpg on 87 octane, whereas Acura cant do that on the TL with premium fuel. Not to mention the Avalon is bigger, and hence, heavier. No complaints so far.

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  Very nice luxury car. - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By CJ - August 20 - 4:56 am

  A very advanced car, nice features but you need to read the manual to learn how to use some of the features. After reading manual you may need to review it to be able to know to use components.

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  Best kept secret ever - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By avylvr - August 18 - 3:13 pm

  I traded in a junk Buick in Dec of 2012 for my beautiful 2004 one owner, all service records, 72,000 mile Avalon. I had read reviews which appeared it was a good car and man were they right. Its been growing on me, I love this car. I commute 120 miles round trip a day so now Im at 124,000 miles and this car still feels like it came off the showroom floor. I sunk about $1500 into it with new Pirelli tires, new front rotors and brakes all the way around, new rear wheel bearing, transmission service and of course the timing belt/water pump maintenance. Im going for 400k miles. It was well taken care of before me by a little old lady and I will continue to do the same.

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  Just what I wanted, but... - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By judy - August 11 - 6:53 am

  I was so thrilled to purchase an Avalon Limited in October 2007. It was everything I wanted in a luxury car, except for the battery. In April 2008 when I went out to start it the battery was dead and the car had to be towed. Again in September 2008 the exact same thing happened, except this time rusty water was also dripping out of exhaust, which could not be explained. Even though the work was done under warranty, I am now nervous when I go out of town for fear it will not start. Other than this problem it is a great car. Wish I could feel at ease with it again.