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:

• 

  Sole owner - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Matt - October 30 - 7:00 am

  This car has been virtually trouble free. There appears to be a little too much wear and tear on tires which might be the driver as well as wear demand on brakes. Comfort is incredible with no back aches after hours of driving, realiability the best of any car I ever owned. Very roomy, quiet, and resists road and external noise. Danger of falling asleep at the wheel it is so smooth. VSC has not been an annoyance but a pleasant surprise. Sunroof adds much to enjoyment of drive. Speakers and sound very excellent and I am a very discriminant listener. Compares to Lexus model as same car but much less $.

• 

  Happy Avalon Owner! - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Rick S. - October 29 - 2:03 pm

  After having rented the Avalon 3 times for trips that each exceeded 1100 miles, for me, it was a no brainer to purchase this car. In April I choose the the 2007 Avalon Limited w/Navigation. Pros: roomy interior, comfortable ride and build fit and finish. Cons: replace joy-stick navigation with the touch screen interface. (Our 2005 Camry XLE has the touch screen nav and it is much easier to use.) Overall: the fact that every Avalon I rented performed flawlessly was the first sign this was probably going to be a great car to own. So far I have had nothing change my mind.

• 

  Love it but not reliable so far - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By MichaelG - October 23 - 9:06 pm

  We have 20K miles on our 2005. We love the car but it has been in the shop several times. It does have a transmission hesitation but is only an issue in rush hour. Currently, it is in the shop for another month awaiting a new steering assembly.

• 

  2001 avalon xls, fantastic reliability - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By bill - October 13 - 12:06 pm

  Bought with 21,000 miles. Now at 113,000, same brakes. Only one problem with faulty sensor, 27 mph on highway, 23 combined city/hwy. I sold my 97 mercedes after many problems. I would consider a 2005 avalon, except it uses premium fuel. This is the best car for the money I have owned. I am 64 and have more room than the Mercedes. No loss of oil after 5,000 mi between changes, oil is still honey colored. All I do is rotate tires and change oil. How can you not love this car?

• 

  the best luxury for the money - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By emc - October 13 - 10:00 am

  have bought four for the family over the years. safe, roomy, quiet, great ride, great gas mileage, low insurance rates, low maintence

• 

  Great Car - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Nancy W. - October 13 - 10:00 am

  I sold my American made 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII because it was in the shop every two months with mechanical problems, mostly electrical, although the brake pedal went to the floor at 35,000 miles and the door handle fell off in my hand at 42,000 miles. I purchased a new Avalon from Fred Dargie at Freeman in Santa Rosa, CA. and love it. Note - It was the easiest purchasing experience I have ever had and highly recommend this salesperson. It is comfortable to drive, has more interior room than the far larger Lincoln and is 100% reliable with almost all of the luxury features of the Lincoln. I plan to own this car for a long time.

• 

  2001 Toyota Avalon XLS - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Louis Schmidt - October 12 - 9:16 pm

  The Toyota Avalon handles very well on the road. the leather interior is easy to clean & maintain. The engine is very clean & well maintained and performance is as good as the day I purchased it. Highway mileage is 30.5 mpg.

• 

  Best bang for your buck - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Str8 - October 12 - 5:56 pm

  I traded in a 03 Mercedes Benz for this car. This car has more room, more options, better gas mileage and it cost less that the Mercedes. You simply get more car for the money.

• 

  Best car for the money!!! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By bobmack - October 12 - 11:36 am

  This car rides better than a cadillac. It has more room than most living rooms. Luxury is everywhere, but the cost is very reasonable. This is a must have car for those that want toyotas reliability, great looks, and a ride to kill for. The sound system is mind blowing with 12 speakers and base to die for. Best car I have ever owned!

• 

  My new Toyota XLS - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Clayton L Greiman - October 11 - 3:36 am

  This is my first Toyota. All my previous auto were Oldsmobiles, but since they have dropped family sedans I was searching for a quality replacement. I have found it!. This car exceeds my every wish for a family car. Safety of passengers is outstanding. Quality of workmanship is apparent throughout the vehicle. Ease of operation from the drivers side with all the essential controls readily available, and easy to find. Truly a great car.