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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  AVALON - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Dianne - October 31 - 10:00 am

  VERY COMFORABLE RIDE,COULD USE MORE POWER ON ACCELERATION.GOOD SELECTION COLORS

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  So Far So Good - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By LaoZheng - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Never liked to deal with the Toyota Dealers. But for the sake of getting this car, I still needed to go there. The interior room, quietness, and comfort make it a great family car, as long my three teenage children remain peaceful in the backseat.

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  Great car - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Geo Baca - October 31 - 10:00 am

  The car is super, feels great on the interstate and around the city. The car has many confort features that come in handy on a long trip. It handles far better then any other car I have ever had, which includes a 2000 Camry with all the options you can get. Its fun to drive. I love it.

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  AVALON - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By DIANNE - October 31 - 10:00 am

  VERY COMFORABLE RIDE,COULD USE MORE POWER ON ACCELERATION.GOOD SELECTION COLORS

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  roomy avalon limited. - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Gary Burnett - October 28 - 2:03 am

  Nice Car ,The Seats Are To Hard And Very Hard To Clean ,Engine Is Very Quiet And Powerful ,The Car Also Sits To Low With 5 People It Will Scrape Coming Out Some Driveways,But It Does Look Nice,Exspecially The Limited But Cost As Much As A Lexus es350 But More Room Inside ,Thats One Of The Reasons I Bought The Avalon Instead Of Lexus Es350.

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  Great vehicle - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By JD - October 22 - 6:46 pm

  Very impressed. Toyota finally has removed the "old folks" label given to the Avalon over the years. Great size, power, interior and ride.

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  Great Car - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By mcrews1407 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  Bought at 40k, now have 175k. Lots of room, very comfortable after long trip. I am 63" and fit!!!!! Very reliable. Have regular maintanience done. Replaced strus and shocks at 100k. Alt. at 125K and rack and pinion at 175. Great engine and Trans. I run a 225/60 tire. a step up from the factory size. Helps handling.

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  Ava, the Avalon - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Danielle J - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I love my Avalon. Its not the most flashy car out there, but dollar for dollar, it is absolutely the most reliable!

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  the best i ever had - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By cat20032 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I love my avalon it is the best i have ever driven.

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  2nd Avalon - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By mark - October 20 - 4:33 pm

  This is the 2nd Avalon owned, previous was a 2005 xls. The 2007 has improved the transmission problems that the 2005 had with downshifting. Transmission on the 2007 is smooth, much more refined. Also, the std features on the limited are worth the $, keyless entry, ventilated seats, rain sensing wipers, dynamic cruisr ctrl., etc. The nav. system is ok, rest of the screen displays are great, easy to use read, no glare on the screen.