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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  Best Buick Ever - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By DrGloom - August 6 - 9:53 pm

  When my new 2000 Acura TL arrived, I couldnt get comfortable in the drivers seat (62", 220 lb) so I canceled the deal and bought the Avalon XLS instead. Back then, I thought it was ugly and definitely a compromise. Now, it looks "classic" and the lines seem much cleaner, and it has been 100% trouble free, but too much is sacrificed for ride comfort. I found *huge* improvements by upgrading the shocks (KYB), tires (Michelin Exalto 225/50x16), and brake pads (Red Stuff)... and the roomy front seat has spoiled me for some otherwise very good cars.

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  Concerns about quality - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By new owner in Feb. - August 3 - 1:20 am

  We have owned two Avalons previously and liked them a great deal. The 2006 XL we purchased gives us some concern. The transmission hesitation when you want the car to move quickly is a real problem. In addition, after backing out from a parked postion and then moving forward there is a low rumble in the rear. Other than this, we like the quietness in the interior, roominess, and looks, especially with silver pine mica.

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  Nice luxury - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By nice ride - July 28 - 4:20 am

  Bought it used with 140k miles but still runs and looks like new with enough power from a smooth quiet 3.0 v6 engine.

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  Glad I waited - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Mike - July 26 - 2:26 pm

  Great car. Glad I skipped the 2nd generation and waited. I sold my 1998 Avalon to my nephew and he loves it. The new model is great. Especially like how quiet it is and the 3.5 liter engine has more than enough power.

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  2006 Avalon Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Florida Driver - July 24 - 11:36 am

  After 16,000 miles, this car has NOT had any quality-related problem requiring a trip back to the dealership. Havent experienced any sluggish performance in either the engine nor transmission as mentioned in some of the forums posts. Very smooth ride and quiet in city & highway driving. Took quite a while to get that drivers seat adjusted just right. So much interior room without the closed in feeling like you get inside the Acura TL or Mercedes E320. A lot of car for $$$ less then Lexus. Once you start using the smart key, there is no returning to traditional car keys.

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  10 - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By mc - July 23 - 1:06 pm

  I bought this 2001 used Avalon car and so far zero maintenance, except for one time computer broke down after the car hit at the parking area which is covered by the warranty that I purchased at the dealership. And the CD changer which is jumping and not working anymore which is not a big deal for me I just used the radio. but other than that, Car run smoothly, easy to manuever, easy to maintain and to clean, and I should say the most reliable Car.

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  Avalon Rating - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Kempmack - July 22 - 10:00 am

  The fit and finish is execellent as is the performance. The quiet interior is especially appreciated. I am currently getting about 29.5 mpg on the highway at cruise control speeds of about 70 mph. City/Island driving gets around 24 - 25 mpg. This is a superb car to own.

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  Reliable road partner. - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By r_k - July 17 - 12:26 pm

  We are third owner of this car, we knew the second owner who kept this car really well. The only thing weve done so far is change timing belt, water pump and fluid wash. Runs like a dream and currently giving me a mixed mileage of 26 mpg. We love the robust build of the car, road handling. The opening of trunk is big and weve had no issues in carrying large grocery bags and a small wagon which always stays in it. The back seat is roomy and has large space for 4 people to sit. I like the drive of this car and will recommend it to anyone looking for luxury at the same time reliable car.

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  Nice Ride - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Cardriverdavid - July 15 - 5:33 pm

  The car has a nice ride, but in the 6 months of ownership, the dash has several rattles, and I have noticed several misaligned panels. I wish the dash was not so far forward or large, the front seat area needs to be larger for longer trips. I love the controls, but not the gray paint of the hidden radio panel. The ride is the best feature. I drove a 2008 ford taurus recently, and the ride felt more solid and flat, like a german car, and was just as nice as the toyota. Wish I knew about that car earlier.

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  My Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Becky Crutchfield - July 15 - 7:13 am

  This is the worst car I have ever purchased in my life. I absolutely hate this car. It is so ugly. I thought the "supposed" reliability and refinement that Toyota "supposedly" delivers would shine through, but I was sorely disappointed. The Avalon is just an unrefined automobile that has serious styling issues, and reliability issues. I have replaced the water pump already after 3 months of ownership, and the dealership was very unfriendly towards my purchase. Ive even quit going to that dealership to have my car serviced. Toyota definetly hit a mud ball when they put this one out!!! I am trading it in for a new 300C or Five Hundred. I will never buy another Toyota.