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:
Showing 761 through 770 of 1,746.00-
Better Buy than Lexus 350 - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By Sam - September 27 - 11:30 pmI bought 2007 Avalon after doing lot of research and in my opinion it is an excellent car for the money. I bought XL but added leather trimming and upgraded rear view mirror. I did not go for XLS or limited as I dont care much for the wood trimming. Car so far has been very good, quiet, handles excellent and its roomy. Its a better buy than Lexus 350 at a $4500 less. I would recommend Toyota to ditch out the cassette player and put I pod. I am not sure if you can get 31 MPG, or at least I have not yet.
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DREAM COME TRUE - 2003 Toyota Avalon
By CLF - September 26 - 10:00 amI THOUGHT ABOUT TRADING UP TO THIS CAR FOR SEVERAL YEARS. ONCE I BOUGHT IT AND DROVE IT FOR 30 DAYS, I KNEW I HAD MADE THE RIGHT DECISION. ITS EVERYTHING I WANT IN A CAR. TYPICAL TOYOTA QUALITY.ITS SMOOTH, QUIET AND ELEGANT TO DRIVE. IT S A DREAM TO DRIVE.
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avalon is often overlooked - 2004 Toyota Avalon
By mungous - September 26 - 10:00 amthis is a terrific car. i had been an american car owner only, for over 30 years. died in the wool. however, the last 3 GM cars i bought (brand new) left me disappointed. the Monte Carlo needed a new engine at 50K. the 92 SSE Bonneville broke down on average once every 6 months and had to be towed (cheap alternators, plastic coolant nipples in the engine block (!) and just an overall decline in quality)same with the 96 Grand Am (alternators)
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Toyota Avalon - 2004 Toyota Avalon
By Casey Charles - September 26 - 10:00 amThe Avalon is an extremely smooth riding car on the road and very easy to handle. A very well built, solid car and very comfortable to ride in. Nice size back seat.
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4th Avalon - 2011 Toyota Avalon
By donb - September 24 - 10:00 amJust picked up a new Pearl White/Ivory Limited. Traded in my 2005 XLS on it. I like almost everything about the car. Did much cross shopping with LaCrosse, Genesis and ES350. All great cars. Was down to the ES and the Avy. I went with the Avy over the ES because I felt I got more value. The 4 yr warranty and great dealership experience was basically matched by the 25,000 mi 2 yr free maintenance. The past experiences of my 3 previous Avalons was the deciding factor. I am dead center in the target audience for the Avalon and I appreciate many of the features, like clarity of instruments and displays. The car is full of goodies I am still finding. Really enjoy the improvements from 2005.
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Toyota Fan - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By Hamboner - September 21 - 5:20 pmAfter my 2004 TL, This Avalon is a dream to drive. Plenty of power, great gas mileage, and just fun to drive. 1st Toyota fro me, but I may be a fan for life.
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Best Car Ive Ever Owned!! - 1999 Toyota Avalon
By Happy Camper - September 18 - 4:06 pmPurchased used with 49000 miles, Ive had no problems except a bad O-2 sensor. Wonderful ride, exceptional interior comfort, and a great sound system. My model is the Platinum Edition that came with a few extras including perforated leather seats,custom mats, and custom wheels. Looks better than most newer versions and a whole lot better than the current model. Reeks of quality.
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BEST VALUE FOR THE MONEY - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By D. J. - September 17 - 9:30 pmFour prior Camrys preceeded this Avalon. Toyotas reputation for reliability is well founded. The car is smooth, extremely comfortable, reasonably quick and a pleasure to drive. Ive owned two Lexus GS 300s and this car compares very favorably. I looked at the Lexus ES but its smaller, has less power and room and lacks many of the features the Avalon Limited has available.
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Perfect under $40k car - 2007 Toyota Avalon
By 2007 LMTD. - September 13 - 8:40 pmJust picked up my 2007 Limited on Friday. I couldnt be happier with this car. All the comfort and feel of a high end Lexus for 2/3 the price. I couldnt be happier. I traded in a fully loaded 2004 Camry (which was a very nice car) for this fully loaded Avalon and the difference is unbelievable. A nice comfortable ride. Audio system is top of the line.
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Dynamic Laser Cruise Control - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By bob Mihm - September 13 - 12:33 amOverall the car is very smooth, quiet and is generally well manufactured. Only time will tell how durable it is. Up to this point I had to have the left outside mirror repaired, the fuel door needed repair and one moulding needed minor repair. The worst thing is the dynamic laser cruise control. It is very erratic once there is more than one person in the car, it does not detect cars as advertised. The unit generally doesnt work in even light rain, is affected by bright sun, can only be adj in 5 mph increments they cant fix it - it is a waste of money until Toyota makes improvements.
