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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  WILL NEVER TOYOTA AGAIN!!! - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By tanniel - August 20 - 8:44 pm

  I have always owned a Toyota vehicle. I am a loyal customer of that brand. However, I WILL NEVER BUY A TOYOTA AGAIN!!!!! EVER!!!! Marietta Toyota on Cobb Parkway is CRAP!!!! The service center is HORRIBLE!!!! Worst attitudes there this morning as if I owe THEM SOMETHING!!! I have a 2008 Avalon that has a headlight out IN LESS THAN 5 YEARS and they will not replace it unless I pay $300!!! Toyota is crooked, and CLEARLY doesnt stand by their work/products... Hyundai has warranties that last up to TEN YEARS and 200K miles and their cars are way cheaper!!! That is a HUGE slap in the face! I was looking to get a Lexus next year but after this experience my next car WILL NOT be a Toyota!

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  Best Ever - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By toylo - August 19 - 10:23 am

  Bought my Avalon new in Oct.2000, my first Toyota ever. Its loaded with everything. I have 170K on it now. It has had every service required, have changed the oil every 5K. Hwy miles are 30-32mph, city 24-26. I went new car shopping today at Toyota. I love my Avalon but the new ones are bigger. Am thinking about a loaded camery. Ive had many new cars and my Avalon is by far the best. I have no complaints about comfort, drivability, and looks.

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  A lot of bang for the buck - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Ted - August 15 - 12:56 am

  After owning this car, it is easy to see why Toyota is doing so well. This American designed and built car is like owning a Lexus but costs much less. The blizzard-white pearl paint job is beautiful. Also owning a fuel stingy Rav4, I am also impressed with Avalons 31 mpg on the highway. I test drove a Lexus and previously owned a Volvo, but the Avalon was such a great car for the money.

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  Give this an extended test drive before buying! - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By Arslan T - August 14 - 12:28 pm

  I drive about 26k miles a year and about 80 miles a day here in Houston and was looking for a used road warrior. My biggest factor in purchasing our 3rd car here is road comfort (to avoid road fatigue) and efficiency/mpg. I have two friends that have the older Avalon models and rave about its comfort and ride, and currently having an ES 350 and seeing its reliability and comfort, the new Avalon was an obvious choice for me. We had the opportunity to purchase a 2015 Avalon XLE but the week that I was to purchase the car I had an opportunity to rent the same car. 200-300 miles later and I am absolutely set on never buying this current Avalon! The exterior has great looks and the interior took a bit to get use to. As others have reviewed, the ride is firm on the highway to the extent that you will feel most bumps, causing road fatigue much earlier (about 25 mins for me). Secondly the seat does not have adequate lumbar support, making the ride much worse. Please do test drive the car before buying this as Toyota has changed the Avalon to make it appeal to younger buyers. As a 30 year old, I really should care about the fun to drive factor - which is def there! - but I just cant get over how uncomfortable the ride is on the highway. Test drove an Accord and a Camry today as well and surprisingly even the camry - which was my last resort car! - even has a better ride in terms of comfort than the avalon

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  yota - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By yeoleyota - August 14 - 10:00 am

  This car aint half bad. I mean if you squint at it, it could look like a couple other cars, its cousin, Lexus LS 400, or an older benz E class. Its got heart when you need to pass up folks on the highway. Ive had the seats pulled all the way to the back and I was still able to sit in the back seat with no problems and had room to spare. The trunk is roomy also. Now for the bad stuff.....struts. I sound like an old bus going over heavy bumps. Now the car isnt bouncing, but Im sure it will be soon. The alternator gave out and the calipers in the back click. Yeah, the car is a little boring to look at, but its nice on insurance, cause no one really wants to steal it.

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  2006 Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By My 06 Av - August 14 - 1:50 am

  The car is absolutely beautiful, very comfortable and refined. We drove it home and it indicated an amazing 34mpg. We were very happy with the car with the exception of an odd noise. I believed it to be fuel injectors or something of the sort at first. By the time we were at 1500 miles it was very loud. We brought it to the dealer. They gave us a loaner and called us later to advise they were replacing the motor. After a few weeks with a brand new loaner, we received it back. It now is as quiet as our 97 Avalon was.

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  Loss of engine oil with no warning light - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Angry owner - August 12 - 11:46 am

  I purchased my car almost 3 yrs ago, everything was great until it reached 33000 miles; suddenly the engine produced loud noise, it was a complete loss of engine oil with no warning light in the dashboard. The dealer was very familiar with the problem before I even spoke. He asked me if it was the loss of engine oil. I would like Toyota to look into this problem. Otherwise the car is great and I love it.

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  Great Car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Tarbox - August 12 - 12:00 am

  This is my second Avalon. It is a great car. Roomy and responsive. Quiet and quick.

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  Toyota Avalon Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Richard Heschke - August 10 - 4:10 am

  Comfortable, quiet car with a few creaks and moans. Didnt expect this from Toyota. Shudders sometimes on slight acceleration uphill. Seems to be going away the more the car is driven. Frankly, Ive driven Toyotas before and expected a bit more from their flagship sedan.

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  AVALON - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By roniah - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Reliability for the most part has been excellant. Nice looking car for price range. Needs new trunk caulking..leaks some in heavy rain.. Had to replace front struts and front strut holders at 59,000 miles.