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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  avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By jpaulson - May 20 - 12:56 pm

  The avalon is comfortable, and love the amenities, cool seats, rear window shade, and the complete car!

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  Its awesome !! I LOVE my car - 1996 Toyota Avalon
  By ilovesai - May 18 - 2:00 pm

  Its very funny that before buying this car I did not hear of it !! I wanted something midsize and the delear showed me Avalon XLS. I test run it and i fell in love.It was big though for me but than when I got it home and started drivining it its like dream come true.Its the most amazing car Ive ever driven. I really feel lucky to have this car as when I went out to buy I did not have this car in my mind..All my friends love it and I really really am in love with my car. It hit 100K today so I felt like writing about it. If you are considering buying a midsize car plz do check avalon and I bet you would not go anywhere else.

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  It is what we thought it would be... - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By iknowhatikno - May 17 - 5:20 pm

  If you are looking for a used Avalon, this is the year to start from. The revised 6 speed transmission is a marked improvement in smoothness, gas mileage, and reliability over the 5 speed autos from 2005-07. There are numerous websites and complaints about thse tranys). Also, the car was freshened on the exterior and has an Ipod plug. The one issue with the 08 model year is the headlamp assemblies, which are a well-documented problem. The good news is that Toyota extended the warranty for the headlamp assemblies for 5 years and 75000 miles from the original in service date. But you have to call Toyota because many dealers will rip off the unsaavy. The Avalon is otherwise a great car.

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  Proud to Join Avalon Family! - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By T.W. - May 16 - 4:56 pm

  Three weeks into our 07 Avalon and could not be happier! Smooth, silent, and getting great gas mileage (32+)! Seats the family (2 boys and 2 dogs) easily. Trips are nice and love the luxury! Probably will never own anything else.

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  not a caddy ,please - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By haybailer - May 15 - 3:33 am

  The touring is a low rider, street driver with low profile tires and a sport tuned ride. It rides like my 2000 4matic although the Avalon is fwd, Taller strut towers and low profile, so Im told so far. Tire bite good in snow, Nokians. But ,Im trying to soften the ride this summer threw after market seek. Softer struts. These cars are fine for the money.

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  susies star - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By susan skinsch - May 13 - 10:00 am

  car is very reliable-economical and comfortabl

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  Very disappointing - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jhm - May 12 - 4:03 pm

  My car (4,000 miles) has MAJOR paint issues, plus electronic problems, plus a rattle in the suspension that the mechanics cant locate. Oh, and it only gets about 21 mpg, even with easy driving. The paint is very worrisome. It chips off the front very easily. I look like I was sprayed with rocks (even though I wasnt) My daughter calls the car chippy. I dont think its funny

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  Love that car!!! - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By CDA Mom - May 11 - 9:06 am

  I just bought this car last week. I love it. I have not had any problems I have seen in some comments. I am thoroughly impressed with the creature comforts of the interior. I also love the features on the vehicle, laser cruise, nav system, remote start, keyless entry, and the best (in my opinion) is the heated/cooled seats (I have lower back problems). The vehicle is a great value -- a lexus similarly outfitted would be substantially more money with higher costs, tires, premium gas, etc. I do not care about the badge, more important is the luxury, quality and the features. Great vehicle!!!

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  Tire Pressure - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Bob - May 7 - 7:30 am

  Sir/Maam: I already did a review-- "Why Look Elsewhere" on 1/27/06. Im even more impressed with the Avalon Limited now than I was at first. What Id like to tell current owners and prospective owners is: DO NOT go by the tire pressure on the info plate on the car. I have Michelin 215/55/17 tires and the car info plate calls for 32 lbs---checked with a Michelin dealer and he said that the "CORRECT" pressure should be 40 lbs in these low profile tires. Too low tire pressure causes premature wear. So, no matter what brand tires you have--check with a reputable tire dealer to ensure you have the correct tire pressure. I hope this helps. Bob

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  Very nice but.... - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Captainalan - May 6 - 10:13 pm

  My Toyota 2008 Avalon limited is an excellent car with a few exceptions. The front seat is tight for a larger driver and the center console makes it impossible to spread you right leg which is so important on long drives. The navigation system is poor at best. It is difficult to use and not as friendly as $300 add ons. The laser cruise control is wasted money as it is far too conservative for normal highway driving. I normally over ride it. My last concern is the low ground clearance. Already I had to reattach the front underbody protection from being ripped lose several times on parking "stops." I believe the clearance is only 5.3 inches which is really pretty low.