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:

• 

  She is 11 years old - 1998 Toyota Avalon
  By Luvs2run - May 4 - 2:00 am

  and very reliable. Ive done regular oil changes and semi scheduled maintenance. NO problems. Had an oil leak after a Jiffy lube oil change. Found local mechanic who fixed oil leak for $120. Dealer claimed needed to replace $2800 worth of parts. No one seemed to be able to find it except for one local Toyota Repair tech. Had pan for oil drips in garage for a year until I found Mr. wonderful. Car is so reliable, paid for and still a very nice looking car. I wont part with it until it blows up.

• 

  This is a Great Car ! - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By BOBA - May 2 - 10:00 am

  The car overall has preformed Great. We have not had any problems.

• 

  As advertised - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By nmcintire - May 1 - 4:43 am

  I drove a 1996 Acura 3.2TL before buying the Avalon after comparing new Nissan Maxima, slightly used Acura RL 2006, slightly used Infiniti M35. What sold me was the comfortable and quiet ride and the available feature set. It didnt hurt that Toyota takes regular gas AND gets better mileage than other large cars. I dont understand the other reviewer citing difficulty with entry/exit into the car; seems like thats something one would notice prior to purchase and, if it is that significant of a problem, look elsewhere. The car rocks; great stereo, silky transmission, great power, bluetooth is easy to use, still learning navigation, but seems intuitive enough. Overall, A+

• 

  Lexus LS for less - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By Richard - April 29 - 6:16 pm

  I have owned a Lexus LS and recently purchased my Avalon. If you could close your eyes while driving it would be hard to tell your were in the Avalon. My family has owned Toyotas since 1971 and some members even drive the LS460. The Avalon is the LS430 in different clothing but performs, drives and rides the same with the exception of the V8 but the Avalon offers sufficient power with the large V6. Great fit and finish and the interior is like sitting in your easy chair.

• 

  05 Touring (avalon) - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By timfrank - April 27 - 5:53 am

  When I first saw this car I asked my wife how much did she think it cost? She replied,"forty or forty five thousand". I walked up,looked at the sticker and got "reverse sticker shock". It was about 28,900.00. Hmmmm. I drove it - it was fast with little torque steer for FWD. The back seat was limo size and the drivers seat had many possible positions as well as an inflatable lumbar support. The stereo is adequate but I will be replacing all the speakers and adding an amp (all Alpine). The brakes are adequate but I may be replacing with Brembo later. The Touring suspension is better than the other Avalons but I still would like some bigger sway bars. A great bargain sedan!

• 

  2007 AVALON TOYOTAS FAILURE - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By 07avalonsucs - April 25 - 9:37 am

  This year and model should have lived up to the Toyota name, but sadly it is as bad as some American cars for reliability .They called it the closest thing to an American sedan, well they were right it fails in the engine after 40000 miles and continues to be a money pit for repairs, for years to come, DO NOT BELEIVE SOME OF THESE SAPPY OWNERS WHO DO NOT DRIVE THIS CAR ANYWHERE BUT TO CHURCH. IT IS NOT RELIABLE. The cylinder coils fail and fail regularly until you need new cylinders which sadly happen at less than 100k. Toyota should step up and recall these engines for failure, instead of touting the wondrous American-like sedan. Buyer Beware.

• 

  One safe and comfortable car - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By schiavone - April 17 - 2:00 am

  The Toyota Avalon is the best car I have ever owned. It handles and rides like a $50,000 luxury car, but cost $20,000 less. The engine and transmission are exceptional. The roominess is amazing, and reliability is second to none. I get 28-30 MPG on the highway on regular gas. Fit and finish is perfect. Safety is very good, as a matter of fact, I owned a 1996 Avalon and was hit head-on by a truck at highway speeds. The car was a total loss, but I had minimal injuries thanks to the engineering of the body, the airbag, and seatbelts, everything worked perfectly. After the accident, I immediately bought the 2000 Avalon which I am driving now.

• 

  Not so impressed - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By accountant - April 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car to replace a 12 year old camry. I thought I was moving upscale but after 3 months I have my doubts. The car runs smooth and has good power, satisfied with the mileage. The materials seem cheap. The panels on the exterior are poorly fit together and dont line up to each other anywhere. Everything is plastic. So far the airbag light was stuck on, they had to replace the seat belt latch. The trunk wouldnt close unless I slammed it hard as I could, they had to redrill and move the latch a little, the rubber weather stripping around the sun roof started peeling back, they glued it down, and now my compass keeps sticking on NE. I prefer my old Camry, more comfortable.

• 

  2007 Avalon Limited - 2007 Toyota Avalon
  By Silas - April 9 - 5:16 am

  Had since March 07, good exterior appearances, am having electical issues, radio comes on sometimes by itself and air conditioning compressor quits running and have to press the air condition switch to turn off and turn it on again to cool. Auto climate in not one to be desired. Road noise is high, car handling is good and get up and go is good and had an issue with the hose on the windshield washer slipping off. The location of car charging needs to be improved. Will not buy another one due to the issues I am experiencing.

• 

  Very reliable - 2001 Toyota Avalon
  By D Brown - April 9 - 3:46 am

  The car has performed very well. Gas mileage is good, especially for this cars size. It is extremely smooth and quiet, running as well as it did when it was new. Brakes were changed at 72K miles. Other than that, have only done fluid changes, batteries, tires, filters and timing belt/water pump -- all recommended maintenance. It is extremely comfortable on long trips. Back seat has tremendous leg and head room.