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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  Our first luxury car - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Bernie - June 25 - 10:46 am

  This was a stepup for us. We were very impressed with the reviews and the styling, but skeptical about the gas mileage. Wow! The gas mileage has been better than expected. We have yet to get below 24 mpg. And with my wife driving, we got 31 mpg on a longer trip. Comfort and space are excellent, as is the power and acceleration. We are really enjoying the navigation system, it has really come in handy, especially when you are in an unfamiliar city. We are ready for the first oil change (3750 miles) and we will have to see if all things remain the same after a year of ownership.

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  review of 2002 avalon xls - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By joyce - June 25 - 10:00 am

  stopped by dealership on the way to test drive a mazda. the toyota avalon ride was so superior that we went right back and purchased the 2002 avalon xls. the last new car we bought was in 1989. we keep a car forever. my husband says i still have a silly grin on my face when i drive!!!! i dont care for the lower front. i have to be careful when parking while facing a curb so that i dont hit. it isnt always high enough to clear.

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  Why Look Elsewhere? - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Bob - June 22 - 6:23 am

  What a machine---lets see, faster than a BMW, quieter than a church, built like a tank, 30 MPG, sofa like seats, more electronic toys than the Johnson Space Center, heated and cooled seats, Carnegie Hall stereo and it costs less than lesser equipped sport sedans. Im 62 and in my youth again driving this car -- see ya at the stoplight -- then you can watch my taillights!! People cant believe its a Toyota -- what an improvement over the old Avalon -- or the over priced Camry in feathers. No Camry here -- this is a WINNER!! Check it out -- youll be impressed!!

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  Is it Lexus LS/GS. No is 2011 AVALON - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By WOW WOW - June 20 - 8:16 pm

  Im not sure why people say its an old person car maybe i think they dont know the history or to much knowledge about cars or possibly in my opinion they see other people driving and want to but the same cars. Anyways to me Avalon is very very comfortable, Great interior,GREAT everything.Yes i use to think AVALON was an old person car until i saw the 2011. I previously owned g37, bmw3 series, lexus gs and other vehicles but so far the best is the Avalon. I WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS CAR.Trust me you cannot go wrong. Just so you can know I am 31 yr old. You dont have to be in 50s or 60s to own one go out there and test drive. Trust me you will enjoy the ride.

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  Toyota had a great car that has lost appeal - 2016 Toyota Avalon
  By Joseph DeSimone - June 15 - 9:56 am

  My vehicle was delivered to me with an electrical system problem that took technicians 3 days to diagnose and repair. The front passenger door does not close properly and new I need to make an appointment for that. Seats are comfortable but the ride is very stiff and feels like a truck type vehicle.

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  Teflon Avalon - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By gruitnower - June 13 - 6:42 pm

  This is by far the best car I have ever owned. I frequently look at these reviews about cars and wonder if they are biased towards Japanese cars. Well let me tell you, I just bought my Avalon with 108k on it and it drives like it only has 4 miles on it. Everything works flawlessly and it starts right up every morning. The look of this car is second to none, distinguished and stylish. I love the leather interior and the spacious trunk. I feel like I float to work instead of drive to work. The engine purrs like a kitten with no hitch on acceleration. This car puts ALL American mid size sedans to rest HANDS DOWN. the quality in workmanship is impeccable

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  Holy Moly: Headlights! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By M. Gomez - June 4 - 7:56 pm

  I have an 05 Avalon that I bought (traded in my 01 Avy) and Im less than thrilled. The thing has had some some problems that the dealer cant seem to fix: groans, engine hesitation, rattles. My mileage is much worse than my old Avalon. I like the new power but, come on, Im 58 years old! I dont race. I wish you could get a smaller more efficient motor. But heres the big bummer. I hit a deer one morning two weeks ago. I have the HID lights. One headlight was broken. The headlight cost close to $1,000!!!! My insurance company picked up half the tab (I have a 500 deductable) but oh my, I dont look forward to replacing these lights in the future when they burn out -- or I hit another deer.

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  "Why purchase a Lexus" - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Craig - June 4 - 10:30 am

  I just recently purchased a 2008 Avalon Limited and I just love it. The car rides very smooth. The interior is very sleek and modern looking with its brushed chrome compartments and stylish dashboard and gauges. The leather seats are also very plush and comfortable. Easily the Toyota Avalon has a huge advantage when comparing everything that comes standard that would have cost thousands more on a Lexus ES. I searched for over a year and there was no other vehicle I found that offered the interior room and standard features for such an affordable price. Thanks Toyota for building my dream car.

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  Best Ever - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By L. Katz - May 27 - 5:03 pm

  Stylish! Comfortable - especially for those in back seat. Immediate responsiveness. Adequate gas mileage - 27 on tpke.

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  First Time Avalon Owner - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Bassplayer - May 24 - 1:53 pm

  I am impressed with my 2006 Limited. I especially like the effortless ride, bright lights, and power that the car delivers while getting 30 miles to a gallon on the highway.