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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  did i buy a lemon? - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By shades2 - October 8 - 9:49 am

  it was our 30th annivery i wanted too suprise my wife with something really nice i bought her the 2013 avalon tour loaded too the max with two tone leather .1st 1500 miles was great then the back of the drivers seat broke 2200 miles the passenger seat broke....2600 miles the neadliner gave way....they have fixed this but they say toyota has no cure fore the problem n so the car has 2800 miles now for that 40000 i gave for this theres no way i could have these problems all ready already been thru the chain of command and what did i get?..call us if you have any more problems.....

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  Love my Toyota - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By Daylee - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Have had my Toyota almost two years. I disagree with the previous reviews. We own three vehicles. The other two are American made. I always jump into the Toyota. It is comfortable for four people and has better gas mileage than the other two. Love the heated seats. I am tall and would like a little more leg room. Performance is awesome. Never have I had a problem passing or maneuvering. No mechanical problems. Highly recommend AVALON XLS! Note this is the exact same motor as the LEXUS and it provides you with more room overall. YEAH!

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  Good Car - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Alan - October 3 - 9:56 pm

  Very small quality problems corrected by the dealer, otherwise well built. Cabin wind noise louder than expected at highway speeds. Ride smooth with plenty of power. A classic American highway cruiser.

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  New ride quality a big disappointment - 2014 Toyota Avalon
  By rgilm123 - October 2 - 12:15 pm

  As a previous owner of a 2002 & 2009 Avalon we were happy when we saw the new 2014 Avalon and bought one without doing much research. We made a Great Big Mistake! If you liked the ride of previous Avalon’s you are in for a big disappointment. The ride is terrible! Overall the car is beautiful and the amenities are great but the poor ride cancels all that out. You will feel every crack and bump in the road. Not as a gentle ride but as a big old thump. Wish we would have taken the test drive on a rougher road before our purchase. We heard Toyota was trying to appeal to a younger market with new Avalon and it may appeal to them, but if you were a fan of the prior Avalon’s do not purchase

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  97 Avalon XLS - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By rsnorwood - September 27 - 6:23 am

  Bought new - now 85,600. Other than strut mounts as mentioned, and brakes, no major repairs. This car stinks in snow. I live on a hill and get stuck almost every snowstorm. Now shopping for an AWD sedan which is not easy to find in the 1st place - making it harder is trying to find one that doesnt seem like a compact car to me. If not for New England weather Id keep it for a few more years.

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  First Peak At the New Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By millem3 - September 26 - 3:40 pm

  My wife just bought a new Avalon at the Minneapolis Car Show last weekend. She Just Loves it! It is great, because now she "volunteers" to run all the errands (pick up kids from basketball, gynastics, grocery shopping, etc) because she just lovers her new Toyota. What a Feeling!!!

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  most reliable car owned - 1997 Toyota Avalon
  By Jeanne E - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This car might not be the most exciting car Ive owned, but it has been the most reliable and is still complelely reliable after 180000 miles and 8 years!

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  Avalon Comments - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By lfa - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Very comfortable and quiet ride. Lots of leg room in back seat.

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  very happy - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By markkkkss - September 26 - 10:00 am

  great dealership- low cost to maintain

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  Love my avalon - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By JJ Opus - September 7 - 10:00 am

  Best car Ive ever owned. Extremely comfortable seats - Ive had two back operations so I need good lumbar support. Can drive all day with no back pain.