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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  Good old car - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Unfortunately - September 3 - 11:14 am

  This car was in "small "a accident and they are asking too much money for a 11 year old car but very nice car outside and inside

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  Great Engine - 2010 Toyota Avalon
  By jabe - August 30 - 10:00 am

  I have now spent 12,000 miles in my Avalon. This a great car. I am getting 25 MPG on average and up to 30 MPG on highway. Great Power and with the manual override transmission you can really get off the line when you have to. Engine flys form 40 to 70 MPH. This car is big and roomy. I fully agree with the Edmunds Road test. They nailed it perfectly on all counts

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  Best Car I have owned - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Neese - August 30 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car new in 12/04 and have 60,000 miles. Other than oil changes, tires and routine work it has been free of any problems or concerns. I love the smooth ride and comfortable seats with warmers for winter!! This car is by far the most comfortable and easy to drive car I have ever owned.

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  A home run! - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Neil - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned and run a BMW shop for 33 yrs. but for many reasons my last several new cars have been been Toyotas, three of which have been Avalons (02XL,05Touring,11Limited). After 5 years of owning the 05, I looked extensively at alternate brands, but decided on the 11. Toyota changed it just enough for me not to feel it to be a clone of the 05(which Ive kept). Beautiful inside and out, excellent assembly, up to a calculated 33/34 hwy MPG (on 87 octane), as fast as an 86 Buick Grand National muscle car I bought new way back when, tomb- like interior quietness, reliable track record, JBL, very competitive pricing. Wow, whats not to like?! Best "full" size sedan value on earth.

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  Lexus Beware! - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Charles Cohen - August 30 - 10:00 am

  Being in the tire business and an auto enthusiast, I was skeptical at first as I had looked at a Lexus product also. This car has a smooth ride, amazing back seat room, a powerful engine and just delivered an amazing 32.1 MPG on a recent interstate drive. This auto is a "well kept" secret that needs to be unleashed on the automobile public who enjoy a smooth ride, volumes of interior room, etc. and is competitive with Lexus in value and features!

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  98 Avalon is the greatest car! - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By steel magnolia - August 29 - 10:16 am

  90,000 of the 121,000 miles on my Avalon are highway and interstate miles, driving from Illinois to Tennessee to care for my ill father, and to SC to build a house. Also drove across the counry horizontally twice. Never a problem! This is a fabulous car--feels like it will go another 121,000 miles easily. The comfort has my Lexus owning friends envious. The AC is the best on any car and keeps a black car with black interios cold in August in South Carolina, with no tinting on the windows. All I do is take it to the dealership for each major service. Gets 32 mpg hwy.

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  Still a lot to work on - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By eshifrin - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Car is OK overall. Few problems: 1. Front window is crap (5 scratches on it in 2 years) 2. Losing all power if you put regular gas. 3. Hard to reach front display. 4. No alarm on XLS Style 5. Brake shose must be replased after 25k (should be after 40k)

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  Awesome Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By ronn - August 22 - 8:50 pm

  For anyone looking for a luxury car in the 30,000.00 range, you need to try this awesome car. It is the most quiet machine I have ever driven!!! It is smooth, and rides just as good as the Lexus 330 if not better. I have tried many cars out lately, and this one was on top. I drove 5 series BMW, Acura RL, and this 2005 Avalon has them beat!!! The new sleek body style is an eye-catcher and I have gotten lots of looks with this car. With its four models to choose from, there is one that will fit your needs! I chose the Limited model which is fully loaded and has the Navigation System and Laser Cruise Control. Heated and cooled seats are awesome as well.

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  Silkly smooth, quick, supremely comfy - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By C E Herro - August 15 - 4:00 am

  My Avalon is so quiet and smooth that it is hard to tell that the engine is running when first started. It is as comfortable as sitting in a recliner in my living room. Acceleration is very quick and shifting gears are seamless. Instrumentation is well thought out and extremely simple... the cabin is elegant. The dash is uncluttered with all extraneous gizmos hidden behind easily accessed "hatches". The mileage is wonderful. I have watched mine inch past the 31 mpg highway estimate to 32 and 33 mpg. Emotional attachments to my old 55 Chevy aside, this is the best car I have ever owned.

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  dont compare with GLE - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By CarManiac - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I brought a brand new 2001 avalon XL with bucket seats with power, JBL sound system, and 15inch rims. I had no problems with the brakes, tires, engine and etc. I really like this cars paint job. It is a great travel car. at the speeds of 80- 90mph there isnt much road or wind noise, which is amazing. there is one problem; after 8,000 miles the back doors open and close alot. Screws inside or something is loose, everytime i go on a bump i hear the squeeking or cracking noise on the doors. I dont know why some people compare this car with the Maxima GLE, i mean its a sports car, not a luxury family car.