3rd Dec 2018, 00:38

I always liked the 2004-2012 generation of the Avalon the best. I guess it's because they kind of look heavy and substantial like the luxury cars of old. Yet, at the same time, they have lots of cool features and drive/ride very well. The 2013 and up models don't have the same feel and style and just don't do it for me personally.

1st Nov 2020, 14:21

I am the original reviewer and just passed the 100,000 mile mark. So far, no unexpected failures whatsoever.

I had all four brake rotors and pads replaced and also all four strut assemblies ($$$), as the suspension was getting too floaty/mushy. It now rides like new - no surprise. I just replaced the battery and had to do a weird, but easy, manual reset of all the power window switches so that the driver’s master switch panel would function again.

My average mileage is around 25.5 mpg according to the onboard computer. I have never achieved the 29 mpg highway mileage that others have crowed about, but I tend to drive a bit aggressively. I may try to chemically clean the master airflow sensor (easy DIY) to see if I can get a bump in fuel economy.

The interior, especially, and exterior are holding up very well, and my family loves the roomy and comfortable back seat on short or long road trips.

It sounds silly, but the other week I was able to best a 2001-2006 era Lexus LS430 (I still want one) in highway passing, despite the 430’s V8. It seems that both cars have nearly the same horsepower, but the 430 does have more low range torque. I tend to use the Avalon’s manual shift mode a lot, so perhaps that feature gave the edge in passing.

If you value quietness and a comfortable ride and - above all - reliability, then look into a used 2005-2012 Avalon. Favor the 2011/12 model years for fresher styling. If you prize crisp handling and feel of the road (BMW, Audi, etc.) you probably will not appreciate this car... and neither will your mechanic. :-)