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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Amazing Ride comfort! - 2010 Toyota Avalon
By Q - April 8 - 6:50 amThe Avalon is the most comfortable car Ive ever driven and its the best car for the buck.Its not a sport sedan but it is fun to drive and the ambiance inside the cabin is amazing.Paired with the JBL 12 speaker with subwoofer at 1/3 volume and i can easily forget the 2 hour trip i make every week.The rear legroom is huge and the rear seats recline and its very comfortable.Front leather seats trim with vent cooler and warmer up front is great for all year long season temperature changes.I love this car!
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May be the best sedan for the price . . - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By brown3 - April 4 - 9:40 amThough other automakers may offer a model that beats the Avalon in one or two areas, taken as a whole, factoring in power, ergonomics, features, build quality, reputation for reliability, and fuel economy, this may well be the BEST 4-door sedan under $35,000 on the market. (A Lexus 430 is better, but though its pushing twice the price its not nearly twice the car.) As to my actual experience, there was a little jerkiness in the shifting initially, but by 1500 miles it had smoothed out to near CVT levels. Im getting 25+ mpg on regular gas in what Id term hill country suburban driving, excellent for a sedan with performance rivaling what passed for a muscle car in the late 70s.
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Great car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By D Biggs - April 4 - 7:10 amThis vehicle drives like a dream. I found it to be a superior ride to the Lexus ES 330. Features abound for the money. Just wish the cooled leather seats had come with this model as the weather here is extremely humid. Though the Limited model had this feature, it was a little too expensive as outfitted and had a number of features I personally did not require.
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never owned a toyota avalon before - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By john dunigan - April 1 - 7:56 pmWhat first inpressed me was the new styling of the Avalon. I love the room the back seat has. You can stretch out your legs and feel comfortable, especially with the adjustable rear seat feature. The Avalon has all the bells and whistles you will need. The smart key system is a fantastic idea. I was impressed to no-end with the performance of the new engine and the gas milage rating was also exciting for such a powerful car. Overall, the styling and performance plus the comfort sold me as soon as I took it out for a test drive.
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Boring - 2008 Toyota Avalon
By raspar77 - April 1 - 10:26 amThis car is boring. OK in almost every respect but not great at anything. Unexciting exterior not too sure about that rear end. Engine ok not what I was used to. Ride a little firm on long trips I feel a little beat up. Fuel economy is good not great. I had an 03 STS that I drove 116,000 miles and it was a great car fun to drive much more comfortable and less tinny than this. I am far from in love with this car it is solid transportation from point A to B but that is it.
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Great Car - 2002 Toyota Avalon
By aaammgb - March 31 - 2:00 amThis car is great! I previously had a Volvo 850 Turbo and traded it in for the Avalon. Ive found the Avalon to be far superior in every aspect except acceleration, but that is only because the Volvo had a turbo engine. The avalon is bigger on the inside and the trunk is also bigger, which I didnt think could be possible. Great car for the money!
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Love My Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
By dina c - March 27 - 4:00 pmI never thought of buying an avalon until I saw the new style...The minute I got into I loved it....When I test drove it I knew I had to have one..The pick up is awesome...the interior is enormous...I cannot find one thing wrong with this car...When I compared it to the ES 300 I found this car was bigger, faster and all the features were similar....The price tag wasnt...Before you pay more for the Lexus check out this car...you will be surprised just like as I was....
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Comfortable - 1998 Toyota Avalon
By Goodwin - March 26 - 2:00 amThis car is great on the highway. There is a feeling of complete controll. Excellent acceleration and breaking. I would buy another one if the nessessity arises.
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I love this car!! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By diana - March 25 - 7:26 pmThis is a great car for the price. Lexus quality for Toyota price. Would recommend this car to anyone. I have three small children (all under 7) and two are in full sized carseats. My youngest cant even kick the back of my seat while strapped in. Huge back seat and great trunk space. Full sized double stroller along with groceries fit just fine. And what can I say, it has Toyota mileage averaging 22 in the city and 33 on the interstate. Classy interior and a trustworthy ride, I would recommend this car to my best of friends.
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Marks - 2006 Toyota Avalon
By Mark - March 22 - 9:40 amWhy buy a Lexus? I couldnt be more pleased! It is the perfect cruiser for a big guy and his passengers. Im so glad I took the time to do the research to pick this car.
