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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  Love our new Avalon - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By coman - March 19 - 9:23 am

  We love our new Avalon. It is roomy, comfortable, quiet and smooth riding. I am apparently one of the few who like all of the new styling updates as well. Maybe that’s because at 66, I’m in their target demographic. I think it’s the best car I’ve ever owned. It’s remarkable how much power it has and yet I get 22+ mpg in town and 30+ mpg on the highway. It’s a great car for road trips.

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  2005 Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By W Nelson - March 16 - 9:33 pm

  I went from the Camry to Avalon in 1995 and this is my 5th Avalon. I have waited almost a year for this redesigned model. It is everything I expected and more, easily the best one yet. Exciting power, with such ease and the amenities are more than I expected. Inside and out, I am extremely pleased with this new model.

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  Great car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By rcbuck - March 11 - 5:03 am

  Drove this from FL to NH just after purchasing. Found the auto to be comfortable and a pleasure to drive. I had read reviews that mentioned soft ride and floating. I found that his car stayed fixed on the road as well as my BMW 325I.

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  Seriously consider this car - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By HARRY - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Classy black roomy sedan with gold package, alloy wheeols, CD & cassette,power seats, front & side airbags, top steady performer, in 62000miles never needed to add oil between 4000 mile changes, one owner,one driver, no smokers,garage kept,mileage 17.2 and 26.7,alarm system, AC,tilt,tint,cruise,leather,ABS, traction. Accident free, miant records kept incl 61000 mile manuf. specs completed with automatic new timing belt and all hose and wire connections certified,repack bearings,and all other manuf. recomended replacements and checkups.

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  Great Avalon - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By WAH RE - March 2 - 10:00 am

  This is a near perfect car from Toyota. I love everything about the car; a better Camry with more room for my large build family: all men 6 feet tall on a trip & we love the back seat. Didnt have GPS on 01 but I think 03 has it now.

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  I absolutely love it! - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Jan Gates - March 2 - 7:03 am

  I have never enjoyed driving, owning, sitting in, riding in or traveling in any vehicle as much as I have enjoyed my Avalon. The dealership has tried but have yet to be successful in convincing me to trade it in because nothing seems better. Our friends always want us to drive and we usually agree because its so comfortable.

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  Lexus quality @ Toyota price - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Karlotta Sanchez - February 26 - 11:36 pm

  Beautiful car. Handles great. Top of the line. Cant think of anything that could be added to make driving more pleasurable.

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  Best Value Luxury Automobile on Market - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By ac1065001 - February 25 - 10:43 pm

  If you are looking or a true luxury large car with lots of room at a reasonable price, this is it. Not another competitor can come close and you get it with Toyota reliability and quality. Styling could be improved but if Toyota did that then there truly is no reason to buy a Lexus LS. Seems same reasoning went into nav system. Portable GPS has touch screen for less than $200 now. This one doesnt. Lexus GPS does. If Toyota cleaned up a few very low cost details there would be no reason for the Lexus brand. Toyotas challenge is keeping the "goodness" of this product away from their prospective Lexus customers.

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  I love my Avalon! - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By pennyj - February 24 - 7:49 pm

  I have not had my Avalon too long, but for the time I have had it...I adore it. I have had many other cars, from Ford to Buick to Chevy, etc. I am in love with this car. It drives like a dream. I slammed on the brakes in the rain and it stopped on a dime. If I were in my van I used to have or my truck...I would have wrecked my car. I am so satisfied, I cant believe it.

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  2 problems, engine noise and battery problem - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By bigmac5 - February 24 - 3:00 pm

  Over all, good car. When started in the morning and accelerating up the hill where I live, makes a sound like the old valve lifter lash before hydraulic valve lifters. 2nd problem is the starter would not rotate when first pushing starter button, but did on susequent trys. Found 1/2 x 2 inch corosion under the cover on the positive post of the battery and cable. Toyota replaced altenator with rebult one and replaced cable connector. Similiar problem about 3 weeks later. Replaced termial connector again. 3 weeks later now and begining to corrode again.