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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  is newer better ? - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By john flanagan - June 22 - 12:13 am

  Avalon was past ready for an update. Changing the platform from the LS 430 to the new GS 300 however was a radical departure some wont like. Improved handling with somewhat less comfort and the feel of less room is one trade you make. Mileage is down, to be expected w/ a 280 hp engine. Build quality is superb! The new display system is awkward and cumbersome, replacing the digital broad spectrum info always available on the old car . I bought the Limited. Smarter folks than I will either opt for the XLS or blow the extra bucks for the Lexus and take the higher resale when the time comes . A great new Toyota, but is it really a new Avalon ?

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  Excellent and fun - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Don - June 21 - 4:56 pm

  Just drove our new Limited Avalon home from an 1000 mile trip and think its one of the best cars Ive ever owned. Just got out of an Audi A6 which was an excellent car but the Avy beats it in almost every respect. The nav system is as good if not better than my old Garmin or the Audi built-in unit and can be set for fastest, direct or other routes which may be an operator issue with previous reviews. Lateral support is not as good as the Audi but that seat was unique among automakers so its not a fair comparison. Seat adjustments are almost infinite making it hard not to find a comfortable setting and the lumbar support and vented seats are a real plus on long drives - during which we got 34 mpg.

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  Still happy - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By Bt Jansen - June 21 - 12:46 pm

  Been driving our XLS for about 4 years now. Still very happy. Had an ignition issue where they had to replace the collar. Might have been from AZ heat. Replaced tires at about 55K. In hindsight, would have spent more as you get what you pay for in ride. Cheaper tires not as smooth as stock Michelins. Car is great for long trips. Plenty of power and Lexus like feel to car.

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  Disappointing Comfort - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By larbaker - June 21 - 10:48 am

  Although this is a great car, it comes up short on one item I think most Avalon Limited buyers want and that is COMFORT. I know they are trying to reach the younger set and apparently have done so from sales figures, I believe they went too far on ride/comfort. We purchased our Avalon Feb 2013 and just had it in for 15,000 mile service. We take a 400 mile trip about once a month. On the first trip in Feb 13 I noticed at the 100 mile mark that I couldnt get comfortable in the seats - felt hard. I didnt say anything, but the next month my wife(its her car) said these seats arent comfortable. She said the other day I want a new car - one that has comfortable seats and softer tires.

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  Lots of car for the money - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By mp - June 17 - 6:33 pm

  Beautiful ride and nice and quiet. I added the VSC and moon roof. My former car was a 2002 Concorde LXI and so far the Avalon is far superior in every way. Taking long drives is a pleasant experience. I also have gottem almost 31 mpg on interstate trips.

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  Not what I paid for/lemon - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By carlosjay - June 13 - 7:26 pm

  Since day one I am having transmission problems. The dealer keeps on saying there is nothing wrong with the vehicle, but there is. It slows down too quickly when your foot is removed from the gas pedal. Sooner or later I will be rear-ended. I am in arbitration now. I was told by a Toyota the tech to drive aggressively. That is against the law. As of now I am due for an arbitration hearing.

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  Ill be darned... - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By diktrikl - June 13 - 10:00 am

  I wouldnt have considered the Avalon as an outright new car purchase but was pleasantly surprised at ride quality (on par with Volvo S-80) and feel I got a bargain at $17K. Theres no way you are going to find one from a dealer for under twenty grand. Toyota reliability and savings to boot... seems trivial to gripe about the bland white color.

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  Love the Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Chynzo - June 11 - 10:13 am

  Traded in my 2002 Avalon XL for the 2006 Limited and no regrets yet. Rides like a dream and interior and exterior appearance much improved from 2002 model. Quiet ride, great accelleration, good fuel mileage for the size of the car. JBL sound system is top notch. Could do without the Laser cruise control as it will slow you down so slowly that you are not aware of it when approaching another vehicle.

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  Beware of buying the 2013 Avalon Limited - 2013 Toyota Avalon
  By bill440 - June 5 - 12:06 am

  Ive owned this car for less than a week and have 2 problems with it, the back of the driver side seat panel broke and the headliner is falling down. The sad part of this story is that Toyota knows about these problems and kept letting dealers sell this defective car. This is not an isolated incident, check Toyota Nation to read other owners with this same issue. Toyota is finally issuing a bulletin to the dealer on these problems. The dealer will fix it under warranty but I dont feel the same, I expect a new car to be trouble free not have to be rebuilt.

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  Avalon is a great car - 2004 Toyota Avalon
  By lor4262 - June 1 - 2:00 am

  The Avalon is a smooth riding car I love it and dont have any complaints in the last 4 months. It runs quiet and has a great pick up. I dont agree with the mileage they quote. I am getting about 17 miles on a gallon, I thought that I would get better mileage. I have the bench seat model and when the middle arm rest is down it makes it hard to latch the seat belt.