2008 Toyota Avalon Review

The Avalon is a near-luxury sedan that debuted in 1995. The second generation, debuting for 2000, was the first to offer a built-in AC power outlet. The current generation, which debuted in 2005, dropped the power outlet and available front bench seat. However, it offers much more style and power.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Toyota Avalon provides a lot of luxury in an unassuming body. However, it doesn’t do any one thing particularly well. The Amanti has better styling and a lower sticker price. The Accord EX-L offers more luxury and safety features for just a bit more. Or you could splurge on a Lexus, which wouldn’t cost much more, but offers a whole extra level of features and prestige. However, the one thing no one can outclass it on is its excellent reliability, but considering the excellent records of its competition, that’s not much of an edge.

What’s New For 2008:

The Avalon is refreshed for 2008. The exterior has been restyled with a new front fascia and headlights. The interior has been updated with new trim. An MP3-compatible CD changer with an input jack is now standard. The Limited now features standard Bluetooth and a power front passenger seat, which is also included with the XLS.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Avalon 5 stars for mechanical quality, and 3.5 stars for performance and design. Problems with the last generation Avalon include noisy moonroofs and water leaks. It was recalled twice. Problems with the current Avalon include sticky audio system doors and engine stalling. It’s been recalled twice for weak airbags and potential loss of control. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Avalon scored 5 stars in government crash tests for both front and side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” for the front and side, and “Poor” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags and a driver-knee airbag come standard. Stability and traction control are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Reliable
+ Excellent interior
+ Above average crash test scores

Cons
- Lacking prestige
- Stability and traction control not standard
- Bland exterior

Head-To-Head Competition:

For the same price, the Ford Taurus Limited offers leather seats and more cargo space. The luxurious Honda Accord EX-L includes traction control, navigation, leather seats, and a moonroof, but costs nearly a thousand more. The budget/upscale Kia Amanti costs over a thousand less, but lacks a CD changer and gets slightly worse mileage.

What Others Are Saying:

“Still, when you consider size, power, and the array of optional gadgets, plus the fact that it’s built to last for eons, the Avalon is an outstanding bargain for its price. If you want a big, comfortable luxury car but don’t feel the need to impress the world with a fancy brand-name slapped on the trunk, the 2005 Toyota Avalon is the car to buy.” – About.com

“So the Avalon may look boring and may, like virtually every Toyota vehicle, trade a feeling of adventurousness for one of reliability. But it’s packed with upscale amenities and, in general, is an excellent automobile.” – Forbes

“By the same token, if you’re really in the mood to blow 35 large on a front wheel-drive Toyota sedan, why not move on up to a Lexus ES350? It looks better, snobs better (think higher resale value) and the Lexus dealership treats you like Mr. Big Shot Moneybags. Huh. And here I was thinking Toyota had ditched performance to be the sensible brand.” – The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2008 Toyota Avalon at the Toyota manufacturer web site.