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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  Why did I wait so long to buy an Avalon? - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Oldsergeant - April 1 - 2:00 am

  I have owned many automobiles over the past 70 years of my life including: 39 Ford Coupe, hot-rod Plymouth (yes, there were such things, Fords, Pontiac and Oldsmobile big engine daddys, Cadillacs, Camrys, and finally, the most pleasing automobile of all: My Avalon XLS. Wow!

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  Really Good - needs a little to be great - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Deanie - March 31 - 9:26 am

  This is a really good car but the build quality is not up to snuff - even though my 05 was the first year of the new model, the build quality was a "B" even though Toyotas typically garner an "A". My passenger front door shouldnt be higher than the rear by 2mm. The rear glass has vertical lines of waviness that are visible even when looking through the rearview mirror. Pushbutton dash panel covers open only after 2nd or 3rd try - it takes 5-10 tries when its over 90 degrees! Needs better choice of exterior paint colors, and definitely needs better choices for the leather upholstery! I guess this is what Toyota does to handicap Avalon so it doesnt embarrass its pricier Lexus siblings.

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  Great Car - few caveats - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Deanie - March 31 - 8:30 am

  My fist Avalon and the only highly reliable Japanese branded car with true seating for three across in the rear - which saved me from having to buy an SUV or Minivan (yeah!). Theres no better car within $5-7K of the Avalon. Great engine, fuel economy, comfortable ride, great brakes, great JBL stereo, virtually every safety feature in existence. But tranny ever so slightly hesitates between gears at low speeds (5-15mph)when stepping on the gas (not flooring it) to get up to 25-35mph in a hurry, though is smooth as silk at all other speeds/situations. Avalon compares favorably with or is notably better than many premium German sedans costing tens of thousands more - seriously!

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  Great Car Except Float Handling - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By rfcn2 - March 30 - 8:44 am

  When I went shopping in 2008 I really wanted a Caddy CTS or an Acura RL. CTS could not be ordered with blue tooth for phone or laser cruise control. CTS by far drove the best. My Dad passed away about this time and left me a 2001 Avalon. It was a basic one but was very comfortable and got great MPG. So as almost an afterthought I went to Toyota dealer. They had the features I wanted and the car was 15 grand less than Acura. I really planned to hate the Toyota. I now think it is one of the best cars I have owned. Still is floaty and poor on curvy roads. Still overpowers the front wheels if too much gas is given. A great value IMHO. Amazing MPG for something this fast.

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  Nice ride - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By RICH - March 29 - 4:46 pm

  So far so good. Even my 15 yr old daughter and her friends love this car. I have the Limited. Great stereo. Almost as good as my TLs 5.1. The only problem I have is that the dual exhust dosent seem to match the other side. One is higher. One is set out more... Great ride....

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  Tried and true - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By LP - March 29 - 9:38 am

  Equivalent to high end luxury without the high end price tag. My car has been a gem after owning for nine years. It is still an enjoyable ride and drive.

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  sorry i bought it - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By cuezze - March 27 - 10:00 am

  I like the styling of both the interior and exterior. I dont like the way the car handles on the hiway. It has pulled to the left from the first day that i bought it. They have aligned the front end 4 times and it still pulls. The car is not good if there is much wind it gets blown all over the road. The 2000 Impala that I traded was in my opinion a better built car.I would never buy a toyota again. I have driven other cars with a list price of the same or less and have decided that I made a big mistake.

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  Best Kept Secret - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike Sloan - March 22 - 8:40 pm

  This car doesnt get the fanfare that it should. Absolutely the best car under $40k and just as good as most cars in the $50k range. From the roomy interior to the vast technology, this car continues to impress while providing the prestige that I look for (without being gaudy). Im having a difficult time keeping my wife out of my Avalon, and she drives a Lexus!

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  1st time toyota owner - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By swordmaster - March 20 - 8:50 am

  I traded in my Mercedes-Benz E320 on the Toyota Limited. The Limited has almost all the features that the Benz had. The seats are more comfortable, & the added air conditioner along with the heated seats are better than the Benz (which had only heat). Of course there is the price. ($30000+ cheaper than the Benz) It has more horsepower than the Benz, & the comfort & roominess of the rear seats far surpass the Benz. I opted to buy a Tom Tom portable nav system. All in all, I am very satisfied with the Limited. The fuel mileage meter is a waste. By the time it figures out your actual mileage, youre on empty.

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  Great mileage for a big car - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By TOYOTA BUYER - March 19 - 6:46 pm

  Great car except for the springs and struts. At 25k miles the ride started to become very hard. Felt every bump. Complained to dealer and toyota. Their solution was too much air in tires. This while under warranty. Having springs and struts replaced at 55k miles. This should solve problem. Toyota will not be my choice to do the work. Taking to independent garage. Really believe the spring problem was known and ignored by toyota, since it only affected ride comfort, not handling. Also bought 2004 Avalon XL and the ride quality between the two is laughable. 2004 rides on air, 1999 inspects all defects in the road.