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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  Absolutely flawless after 73k miles - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By Michael Babcock - March 20 - 10:00 am

  Our Avalon XL has never failed us once. (KNOCK ON WOOD!) It still drives as great after 73k miles as it did from day 1 (new). We leased it initially but had no problem buying the lease as it has performed flawlessly and has been a pleasure to drive daily. Lots of power with this V6 too!

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  My Review - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By John Poghosian - March 20 - 10:00 am

  I used to own a 1993 Acura Legend and was totally satisfied with it until a friend from my college days bought a 1995 Avalon XLS. Was in-audible, and the transmission was the smoothest sounding I had heard, even from my finely maintained Acura. I guess it was from then on I decided to purchase my own Avalon, but I had onyl bought a new Acura but two years ago. I recently sold my Acura and had been saving money so I decided to pursue my dream, I bought a 2003 Toyota Avalon XLS equipped with all the original Toyota goodies offered. I did end up paying a hefty price but it was well worth it. I chose all the options available.

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  Avalon 04 - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Stan Mills - March 19 - 11:13 pm

  The feel and roominess are great, the noise level is very low. Handling is very good, and the ride is smooth. The power is adequate. The only item I am not happy with is the low actual milage compared with the listed average, which is 26 highway though listed at 30, and the town mileage of 20 which is not close to the 26 listed. Highway mileage at 60 mph average is 32, at 75 it is 25.

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  Broken Front Coil Spring - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By sonnyjames - March 19 - 2:29 pm

  My 2006 Avalon hit a small dip in the road and the right front coil spring snapped (thankfully at the very bottom) . I removed the broken part and was disappointed to find out it is a very light weight spring and looks like & feels like it was made out of pot metal. And my Platinum Extended Warranty (that I never used and cost me an extra 1K) is over the time limit. Car has 94K and we bought it new. As far as Toyota Service goes they have been a disappointment , they try and get a person to have expensive un-needed work done on their vehicles . I will call Toyota in the A:M and plead my case. Anyone else have this happen? if not beware these coil springs are junk.

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  My First Toyota--What a Rush! - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Scott_in_CA - March 14 - 6:30 am

  After 2 decades of Chrysler products that have great engines but rotting interior and exteriors I have decided to take the plunge...in the 3 weeks I have owned it I love it!!! Great comfort...awesome gas mileage and classy exterior looks.

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  2006 Avalon - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Lou - March 9 - 1:53 pm

  Suprising power and gas mileage excellent.

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  Lexus Killer - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By hboggs - March 8 - 2:00 am

  What a vehicle! 20mpg in town in 2-3 mile trips and high 20s on the road. Comfort abounds, room room room. Looked at 2 series MB, but couldnt see the additional $. Drive a Lexus, just more wood & trim, basically the same car for far less $. Ive owned just about everything in my life and for the first 3000 miles its been equal to anything.

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  Best Ever - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Allan Whaite - March 3 - 5:33 pm

  This is my third Avalon and is the best car I have ever owned. Very comfortable and good gas mileage. This is a keeper and in my 74 years have owned a lot of cars

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  Luxury at an affordable price! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Len_1 - March 3 - 2:36 pm

  Ive traded my 2003 Nissan Murano AWD and thanks to the Avalon, the transition was smooth. My peers enjoy the riding comfort and options you get for the price.

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  Motor mounts broke - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Tammy Guida - March 3 - 6:00 am

  My mechanic said the motor mounts broke on my new Avalon last week. The car shook terrible and then wouldnt drive. It is still in the shop. Im very unhappy with this car. Consumer Reports says Toyotas dont break down. Are they kidding? The paint on this car is almost as sad as the motor. It is very easy to scratch off on the front.