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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  Reliable, Comfortable, Economical - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By DJ - September 12 - 7:06 pm

  Purchased brand new. Very roomy interior, especially in back seat. Very comfortable for local and distance driving. Excellent ACTUAL gas mileage: 24-26 mpg city & commuting; 26-32 mpg sustained hwy driving. Only problems in 7.5 yrs was a fuel pump that needed to be replaced after 4 yrs and the in-dash radio/CD player after 5 yrs. Have performed all scheduled maintenance at recommended intervals. Maintenance costs have been low: $725/yr over entire period owned; $900/yr during past 5 yrs, including replacement of timing belt at recommended 90K mileage. Best car Ive ever owned. Will buy another this year.

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  Avalon XLS - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By warwick - September 9 - 3:13 pm

  We needed a little more room so the Avalon was the one for us. We are happy with the car but if I could a little more pick-up would be nice. The brake could be better but it is not a huge problem. There was a problem with the brakes after 2500 miles,the dealer resurfaced the rotors which fixed the problem. I expected the rotors to be replaced but the dealer said it was Toyota policy to repair. Well I sent an E-mail to the company and nothing came of it.

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  2015 Avalon Limited - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By tome1 - September 8 - 3:14 pm

  So far, other than ride quality we enjoy our new Avalon. Very responsive, excellent power, electronic package is very nice (a lot of safety features).

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  Another Excellent Car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Thomcin - September 5 - 5:53 am

  Great motor. Great 5 speed trans. Roomy. Lots of air bags and safety. Handles well. Good value.

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  Outstanding Car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By John Darr - September 4 - 12:16 am

  I purchased the Avalon as a Christmas Present for my wife who is a Real Estate Agent. It has the quality and refinement of a Lexus. It has a huge reclining back seat perfect for showing real estate. We have had a lot of complements for clients. My wife says it is the best car she has ever owned. I can rest easy that it conveys style and refinement with out being overstated and I know reliability is not an issue.

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  An excellent car needs some improvements - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Raymond Warren - September 3 - 5:16 pm

  I like the stye, driving and riding comfort. The roof trim over the doors pops when using an automatic car wash. The navigation system is difficult to program and operate and is signficantly overpriced for the performance obtained. I will buy another Toyota Avalon Limited, but without the navigation system, unless it is redisigned to make it more user friendly.

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  Great new design - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Reno - August 30 - 9:30 am

  So good I sold my BMW 750il

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  Great Car - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By John - August 26 - 4:53 am

  Just about everything about this car is great, at the price paid it should be. It does have a few shortcomings, the trunk lid closes like a piece of tin. The dealer said nothing can be done about it and the back bumper where it fits along the side is a poor fit. Overall the car is joy to drive.

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  Champagne on a beer budget - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By TMINJ - August 23 - 4:33 am

  Bought it w/ 127K 5 months ago, 159K now, paid $9K (well maintained) it is really a flawless car. Sure, I had to replace the timing belt and brakes, but that is what is expected at 100K miles. The ride on this car is smooth and it takes to hard corners like a bucket of water, but it is not a sports car and that should be understood. Ride / build is Lexus quality. Even with 159K miles on it is solid over bumps and shows no sign of its age. Interior space is outstanding and power seats make good comfort and lumbar support. This is my second Avalon and looking forward to breaking 300K on this one like I did my last one. Then I will buy another 8-9 year old Avalon and start all over again!

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  One Great Automobile - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By rayalon - August 21 - 4:46 pm

  Rides like a dream, quiet, comfort with a safe, sound ensuring drive of quality.