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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  Excellent value, comfort, performance - 1999 Toyota Avalon
  By Marc B. - March 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car with 10,000 miles...now it has 85,000. Only repair was the A/C compressor replaced by the dealer - I paid labor only (after the warranty expired). Otherwise car is flawless, solid, comfortable and fun to drive. I have it serviced at the dealer (oil change $26.95) My only question is how long this will last. I might get 200,000 miles out of my Avalon, and Id be happy to drive it that long. Why pay 1,000s more for another car? For what? Having BMW written on the hood just isnt worth it.

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  terrific car -- why buy newer model - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By james glass - February 25 - 4:58 am

  Great car; changed model in 2013, but this version much better. Love the Car!

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  Excellent Car and Very Luxurious - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By qwerty1 - February 24 - 2:43 am

  This car is very nice and beautiful. It has 280 Horsepower, which blows away the Nissan Maxima. The interior is very well set up and everything else that comes with the car is great.

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  Better Trade Than I Thought - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Stephen - February 20 - 8:46 pm

  I traded down to an Avalon Limited from a BMW 330I. As it turns out it wasnt that far down. Im actually seeing more and more that this car has a lot going for it. Better gas mileage, no premium gas, its pretty quick and a good sound system.

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  Love my Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Kim - February 19 - 5:36 pm

  The Avalon has a beautiful luxurious interior with an unparalleled smooth comfortable ride. Great horsepower at 280.

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  AWESOME CAR - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By RONN - February 18 - 8:40 pm

  The new 2005 Avalon is a great car. While driving many other name plate cars, this one beat them hands down with comfort and luxury! It is very quiet, and handles great. I get lots of looks with this car, as I find the styling to be great and eye-catching. It has many features to play with, and the stereo is great as well. The navigation is fun, and performs well. The new engine is as smooth as silk, and Im very pleased with the gas mileage. I am getting 22-23 in town driving. You cant beat that with 280 horses!

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  Eds Thoughts - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By eowens0421 - February 18 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. It has power and pep and is very confortable. The only problem I have is the exterior design as the car looks too long with a high rear end. The front looks good as does the trunk area but do something to make the car look so long.

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  Overall, a great car - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By Rebecca - February 15 - 2:00 am

  Overall, I am loving this car. The ride is smooth, the car is quiet and the amenities are wonderful. I really like all of the safety features, between the front and side curtain airbags, the vehicle skid control and the assisted braking, I truly feel safe in this car. I also appreciate the reliability of a Toyota product.

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  Superior Automobile - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By gmb - February 14 - 7:33 pm

  We previously owned a 96 Avalon, and were very pleased with it. This car, however, is superior in almost every way. We tested against Lexus, Infiniti M, Acura: for features, performance, fuel economy, and price this was the correct decision. This is an outstanding automobile. The styling is a bit stodgy, and the navigation system a bit cumbersome, but these minor drawbacks are more than made up for with comfort, engine response, fuel economy for the HP, and overall integrity/fit and finish. I spent ~3 years researching this choice, and we made the right one. Nice going, Toyota!

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  Everything I thought it would be. Great - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By sim davenport - February 10 - 10:00 am

  I have driven my 2000 Avalon for 2 1/2 years and have 72,000 miles on it. I have not had any defect at all show up and the performance has been great. Obviously, I thought it was a great looking car or I wouldnt have purchased it. Who needs Cadillac or Lexus when you have the Avalon!