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 my Avalon with iPod adapter - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By akrika - December 31 - 2:46 pm

  This is my second Avalon. I went from Avalon to E320. The E320 was major disappointment, so I went back to Avalon. I have had this car for over two years. I have not had any problems with. It ride fine. The only problem is the cheap bridgestones tires that come with it. I just changed all four tires to MXV4 and it rides fine. I the dealer install the iPod adapter and it works fine. Great car.

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  Car of a Lifetime - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Howard - December 29 - 6:56 am

  Power and more! Lots of snap when needed in traffic. Very little road noise and no rattles. Spacious interior with passengers in mind. Best car I have owned in my fifty years of driving.

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  Lower Your Expectations - 2015 Toyota Avalon
  By Brenda Smith - December 26 - 8:31 am

  We purchased a 2015 Avalon in July. It was a nice vehicle but the more I drove it, the more I realized it did not meet my expectations. Due to its reputation, I expected the "flotation" ride of a luxury car. I also had issues with wind noise and bumping my head getting in and out. (Not a vehicle for people who have any difficulty getting in and out of a car). To say I was extremely disappointed is an understatement. The dealership could do nothing about the wind noise....... we even tested one straight off the lot when I came to pick mine up from Service. It did the same thing. My aunt had purchased a 2015 Av Hybrid around the same time. When I spoke with her, she said that she had not realized now noisy her 2015 Avalon was until they went on a trip in a friends Ford F150. Now thats sad that a pickup was quieter than a luxury car!!! I traded in a 2013 Kia Soul that I just loved other than the ride. It had zero wind noise!!!!!! Complained to Toyotas Houston division but since it is not a safety hazard, they deemed nothing was wrong with the car or its design and offered no alternatives in terms of helping me purchase a different vehicle. My only recourse was to go back to the dealership and trade it in. I now own a 2016 4Runner and LOVE it. Yes, it is not sound proof, but it rides better and is more comfortable than my LAST purchase of a "luxury" vehicle. I use the term "luxury" loosely and sarcastically. BCS

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  Worst car I ever owned - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Juwel - December 23 - 3:13 pm

  Bought the vehicle new at the end of 2004-after a half year shaking and unsmooth operation of the steering. Dealer found no problems. Several alignments and different sets of tires showed some improvement, but still not what you expect from a top of the line Toyota. From approx. 20k on rattling and noises from different interior parts... Now after approximately 50k the crank shaft pulleys broke (another $2k was quoted to fix this issue). In short: I bought this car since I had such positive experience with my 1990 Toyota Pick-up (now over 260k miles) and almost no repairs. However my Avalon is from a different breed: Lots of expensive repairs combined with a minimum of enjoyment.

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  Nice XLS - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By ejmann - December 21 - 11:20 pm

  Bought the XLS vs a 300C and love the car. Ordered the VSC and heated seats for safety and comfort. Drives great, excellent mileage for a large car. And very quick!

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  After 165000 - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By DanielJarrett - December 20 - 2:00 am

  I purchased the vehicle used at 60k miles. After driving it for another 100k miles, I have not had any repairs to make. Many opportunities at routine maintenance (oil, brake pads, tires, timing...). The interior has held up and does not rattle and nor has begun to deteriorate as my previous Buick Le Sabre did at 80k miles (could stand driving it any longer). The words I would used to describe this vehicle is reliable and competent. It does not stand out in any automotive driving category, but simply does all well. The vehicle will also hold three full size car seats in the rear.

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  Initial Review - Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Mark - December 19 - 9:40 am

  A few squeaks and rattles, and at low speeds/traffic, the 5 speed automatic transmission is quirky and can have a problem figuring out which gear to shift into, but this car is a luxury rocket, with great Lexus-type features.

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  Im Impressed - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By iggy7 - December 16 - 3:32 pm

  This is my first Toyota, and i bought this a few weeks ago. It has 230k miles on it and it drives great! It making a Toyota guy out of me.

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  Best 4 Door Sedan on the road! - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Madi - December 15 - 4:36 am

  Had a 2006 Avalon and was hit head on by a pickup truck. Survived because of the air bags, seat belts and the front crush panels engineered into the car. Replaced the Avalon with a new 2007 Avalon. Shifts smoother, rides like a dream, and has even better milage than the 2006. I get 30/31 mpg on the road and 23/24 in town and for a full sized sedan that is amazing.

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  Expected More - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Dale - December 12 - 5:26 pm

  Had a very hard time finding the XL as we needed the cloth seats. We drove the car the next week on a 300mile trip. The mileage was about 28mph over all. The seats and the ride were just average. We were told the xm radio was pre-wired and it was not. We are not sure if we are excited about this car, time will tell! Had 2001 Avalon that was troule-free for 100,000 mph!