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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  Perfection - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Jim Evans - May 5 - 11:23 am

  We have been Toyota owners for 32 years and this new Avalon Limited is without a doubt the finest car they have ever built. We shopped all other brands (American & foreign), comparing the quality of workmanship, power, handling, features, and overall "feel" before settling again on the Avalon. It was the only car to satisfy and exceed expectations on all levels and exude a feeling of total reliability.

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  Flies Like An Eagle. - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Chan Man - May 2 - 5:50 am

  Two trips to Las Vegas and back, did not suffer from driver fatigue nearly as bad as the last car that I owned. The car actually got 31.1 m.p.g. at the speed of 82 m.p.h. with a slight tail wind. Very stable passing tractor trailers. The electric seats adjust to fit your favorite position. The stereo system is really killer great. Minimal wind noise, some road noise. Lots of people wanted to know more about it. I burned 87 octane gas. When you burn gasohol, you get fewer m.p.g., but you keep our dependence on foreign oil down. I, personally do not want to go back to Iraq. The other boys I work with like it and want to drive it. My wife likes it, too. Although it is lacking on trunk space.

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  Great Car - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Irvin Chuck - April 30 - 10:46 am

  EXCELLENT

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  Noisy - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Durangokid - April 25 - 8:00 pm

  For a Car in this price range the ride is too firm and the wind noise is high at highway speeds. Also the car is jerky and not very smooth at takeoff.

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  New Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By jeff McCollum - April 25 - 12:46 pm

  It is about time that Toyota kept a luxury car instead of giving it to Lexus. This is the finest car in its class. Plenty of horse power(280) gives this car ample pickup and top line speed. This car is extremely solid, and very quiet on the road. Inside is very roomy and large. I am over 6 feet tall and there is plenty of leg room and head room.This car is as nice as the Audi A6, and the Infiniti M35, but is $10,000 cheaper.

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  Excellent choice - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By Kisa Lee - April 23 - 7:20 am

  Before the purchase of my Avalon I drove a Nissan Sentra for about 9 1/2 years and loved that car because of the reliability. Now in the Avalon I feel the same but with extras ex. the interior, the comfortable ride, the room as well as the sound system. I am really enjoying the car even though it was used when I purchased it, I feel that I made an excellent choice.

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  toyota avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By pwarden7 - April 20 - 12:00 pm

  The vehicle gives an excellent ride on local on highway roads. It has a quick acceleration and a smooth ride.

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  06 Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By ddwalkman - April 19 - 7:23 am

  One minor mechanical imperfection, so far. One flip out component of the consol controls does not function properly. Front end design is like 90% of the other new model cars. I suppose this an aerodynamic consideration. Rear end design is outstanding. Trunk space is minimal compared to other full size sedans.

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  AVALON - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By ISELKARS2 - April 16 - 9:13 pm

  FABULOUS

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  delightful inside, simple outside - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By vinnievideo - April 14 - 4:56 pm

  Have enjoyed driving this honey of a car. It looks ordinary outside, but once you step inside it is roomy, comfortable, and elegant. I am 69" and fit into this one nicely. Enjoying every minute behind the wheel