2008 Toyota Avalon Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Write a reviewThe Toyota Avalon gets a complete exterior makeover and some sweet new features for 2008. This year, you get a 9-speaker CD changer/radio and a place to plug in your iPod. New options include DVD navigation and heated/ventilated seats.
The Avalon has 4 trims: Limited, Touring, XL, and XLS. All four use a 3.5-liter, 268-hp V6 engine with 6-speed automatic transmission. Gas mileage comes out to 19 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway.
With a name that harkens back to a mythical island revered for its apples, the Avalon builds on Toyota's sterling reputation for quality vehicles. The solid V6 powertrain, solid gas mileage, and smooth ride should appeal to anyone looking for an upper-tier foreign sedan. Look for Toyota to add even more to the Avalon in the years to come.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2008 Toyota Avalon
Write a reviewUser rating:
by John B
Feb 14, 2024
Cruise did not work. Mirror adjustment was pushed through the dash. The dealer would not budge on unwanted warranty.Feb 14, 2024
by Anonymous
Sep 19, 2023
Car runs smooth and looks great. Mechanic said car is in great shape. Car is getting 29 MPG..Which is good for a V6.Sep 19, 2023
by Dave C
Aug 26, 2023
This is what I expected and a great deal. Show room-like condition with 95K miles. Aug 26, 2023
User rating:
by John B
Feb 14, 2024
Cruise did not work. Mirror adjustment was pushed through the dash. The dealer would not budge on unwanted warranty.Feb 14, 2024
by Anonymous
Sep 19, 2023
Car runs smooth and looks great. Mechanic said car is in great shape. Car is getting 29 MPG..Which is good for a V6.Sep 19, 2023
by Dave C
Aug 26, 2023
This is what I expected and a great deal. Show room-like condition with 95K miles. Aug 26, 2023
by Ryan F
Oct 01, 2022
Love the car I bought it thru the car gurus web site. Cars loaded love it I compare it to my 530i bmw Oct 01, 2022
by Steve B
Jul 28, 2022
This is a great car but the year was not what I really want. Very sound car but not what I wanted.Jul 28, 2022
by Anonymous
Jun 07, 2022
Power when needed. Nice ride. Roomy. Confidence. Would buy againJun 07, 2022
by Irene P
Mar 27, 2022
Love those cars I have been driving a Cadillac . But I was not happy with the CadillacMar 27, 2022
by bernard j
Feb 24, 2022
The 2008 Toyota Avalon, is a excellent vehicle. Recommend to anyone looking for a quality Sedan.Feb 24, 2022
by Muath D
Jan 22, 2022
Very good. Jan 22, 2022
by Paul C
Sep 30, 2021
too many negatives with this car a waste of timeSep 30, 2021
by Anonymous
Sep 20, 2021
Solid, ergonomically designed, roomy back seat and front. Quiet and luxuriius.Sep 20, 2021
by joanne l
Feb 22, 2021
Maybe tinted windows and some wheels but other than that it looks like a nice carFeb 22, 2021
by Hezekiah J
Nov 29, 2020
The car is a great value way below market price super clean very little update needed.Nov 29, 2020
by Ronald B
Sep 20, 2020
No clean, not ready for sale the csr shows heavy useSep 20, 2020
by khan n
Jul 07, 2020
very good ,condition is fair price can be negotiatedJul 07, 2020
by Debra S
Feb 20, 2020
Awesome I’m loving it thank you cargrus great full Feb 20, 2020
by No T
Dec 22, 2014
This is my 3rd Avalon. I purchased this 08 used because I traded in my 05 for an SUV back in 2010 and I missed the Avalon. If you like gadgets, you are going to like the Avalon. I like the LED turn signals in the mirrors, the puddle lamps, heated and cooled front seats (if you go on long trips in hot weather, you will be amazed what a difference it makes to have air circulation on your back). The back seat is enormous, so when we go places with friends, there is plenty of space for them to put their legs out even with the front seats all the way back. The back seats also recline a bit and the doors open very wide. The trunk is huge and even with all the space offered in this car, it still gets 23-30 mpg. I typically average about 22, but I also let it idle a lot (eating lunch in the car).
The laser guided cruise control allows you to set a speed (in 5mph increments) and it will automatically slow you down if you come upon another vehicle going slower than you. It will maintain your distance and speed from the vehicle ahead of you until they are no longer an obstacle. The car will then speed back up to your preset. If you are interested in the laser guided cruise control, it is available in the 05-09, then in the 13 and newer models. You can identify the models with this option by the under-bumper grille. The car's right hand side near the fog light will look differently than the left. There will also be an extra button on the steering wheel under the “speak” button. If you happen to purchase an Avalon with the laser cruise, you can disable it and use the conventional cruise instead but pushing the cruse control lever forward for 1 second. The laser cruise does not stop the car. It will only slow you to about 27 mph and then will alert you that it is shutting off. Downsides are that it may slow you more than it needs to in merging traffic. This can be over ridden my lightly pressing on the gas, but it can be an annoyance. Also, it will not work if you have your wipers on ... about 3 swipes of the wipers and it shuts the system off.
If you live in a snowy area, I would recommend that you purchase designated snow tires. It handles well in the snow with the appropriate tires, but acceleration and deceleration can be problematic with all-season tires.Dec 22, 2014
by Dominic A
Dec 08, 2014
The Avalon is a very complete full sized luxury vehicle - we where pleasantly surprised by the options available in the limited trim level as well as the fit and finish both inside and out. Tremendous value and investment! Highly recommend.Dec 08, 2014
by Brent J
May 21, 2014
This car gave me mixed emotions. I enjoy the abundance of room and the audio compensation system(read pros to know what I'm taking about). I also enjoy the fact that its a four door, so I can drive my friends around in it easily without them complaining for more room. I don't like the mpgs that the car gets. It's terrible. I live in a big city, I get on a good day 17 mpg.May 21, 2014
by Anonymous
Apr 25, 2013
My 3rd used Avalon after a '95 and a 2000, because Toyota continues to give me confidence in the combination of fuel efficiency, ride and reliability. I could have a dinner party in the spacious back seat!! A true family car.Apr 25, 2013
by Raman S
Oct 29, 2012
The Avalon is a highly reliable car with decent gas mileage. 5 passengers can sit very comfortably. It has brand new Michelin tires. Ideal for family and professionals. Toyota reliably is unsurpassed and it is clearly demonstrated in this Avalon.Oct 29, 2012
by Anonymous
Feb 04, 2011
Toyota is well know for quality. This car delivers both quality and comfort with low maintenance. Smooth accelaration with all creature comforts Oh yeah it's also fun to drive.You will not be dissapointed with this vehicle. 29 MPG on regular gas.Feb 04, 2011
by Hassan F
Feb 16, 2010
excellent performance 280 bhp Maximum speed 260 . I tried
myself 220 km I recommend this car for all my friends. I
believe it is the best car in Toyota. i mean the best saloon car.
I LOVE THIS CAR A LOTFeb 16, 2010
by SteveO G
Feb 08, 2010
Though I don't get to drive it often, it is a very nice ride. It has been above average in reliability in our first year of ownership. It performs ok (for a front wheel drive) looks very nice and is actually fairly efficient (31 highway MPG) considering size. Ride is a little stiff because of the touring package, but we liked the other options that came with it. Though the performance, ride, and luxury are not as good as my E class that is nearly 10yrs older. I would highly recommend this based upon its superior reliability.
PS - Verdict still out based upon sticky gas pedal (yet to have an issue). Feb 08, 2010
by Rocky O
May 18, 2009
If u like class along with speed, this is the car to own. The drive is better than a lexus and its the best in its class. Like an economical BM or Merc. the legroom is unmatchable, i nickname it as a moving bedroom :DMay 18, 2009
by Anonymous
Jan 20, 2009
It's a wonderful car. Yes there are things I'd like to see
different, added to the car, such as the coin tray on the dash
(like Camry's).
I'd like to see some of the controls on the center console a
bit different, and maybe more on the steering wheel (yes
most of what I'd like to see is on the XLS model).
The car is smooth, pretty quiet on the road. It gets pretty
good gas mileage considering the V6 and size.
I guess if it could be even more quiet at highway speeds,
then I'd be as happy as I could be.
I have 2500 miles on it so far, hardly enough to give a good
review, but so far, so good.
I just did have it in for service. It appears the VSS sensors
got hit by some ice or whatever, and caused some issues.
They had the car for the morning and said it was all set …
time will tell.
I'm thinking of driving an XLS model to see if it's any better,
but I may just wait until the next new model comes out, or
maybe start looking at an LS Lexus model.
Yes I would recommend this car to anyone I know, looking
for a great car.Jan 20, 2009
by Rocky O
Dec 24, 2008
Performance - Amazing, matches well with lexus ES series, soft and smooth drive, a pleasure to handle it
build quality - average, not so strong body,
Appearance - Interiors are the best in class, spaciousness better than lexus, the rear seat is no less than a bed, classy dashboard with neat trims.
Ownership costs - C'mon its a TOYOTA, however need 2 spend a lot of time n effort for upkeep of interiors.
Dec 24, 2008
by Natalie H
Aug 19, 2008
This car has a nice look from in and out. The interior design is much better than the camry. Perfornace is pretty good not bad for a big luxury car. cost is not bad you just have to bargain with them and get the best deal u can get. especially when you have good credit.Aug 19, 2008
by Anonymous
Feb 05, 2008
This is our 5th Avalon. My wife drives a 2005 xls. this is "my" first CAR, having gotten rid of the van.... Great power, rides & handles great, but, to me, a little loud on the road noise. Excellent room and comfort for all seats but would like the driver's seat to raise a little higher for me. Prefer the older "red" color turn signals in the side mirrors in lieu of yellow. Still one of the best cars, if not the best for the money.Feb 05, 2008
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Top Comparisons
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2008 Toyota Avalon Pricing
Original MSRP
$27,075 to $34,415Price range
$7,500 to $8,116Average price on CG
$7,500YoY price change
$7,995 to $7,500Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Auxiliary audio input: jack · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 9
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.7 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.2 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 8
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · License plate bracket: front · Mirror color: body-color · Paint: special factory paint · Rear bumper color: body-color
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: cloth
Security
Power door locks: anti-lockout
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: full-size
Steering
Turns lock-to-lock: 3.2
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Stabilizer Bar: diameter 24 mm · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Stabilizer Bar: diameter 15 mm · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link
Tires
Type: all season
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: jack · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: JBL · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: ready · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 9 · 360 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.7 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.2 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: cruise controls · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 8
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · License plate bracket: front · Mirror color: body-color · Paint: special factory paint · Rear bumper color: body-color
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: tilt
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: mulitlevel · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather
Security
Power door locks: anti-lockout
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: full-size
Steering
Turns lock-to-lock: 3.2
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Stabilizer Bar: diameter 24 mm · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Stabilizer Bar: diameter 15 mm · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system w/voice activation · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: all season
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: jack · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: JBL · AM/FM radio · XM satellite radio · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 11 · 360 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.7 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.2 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Interior accents: wood · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: cargo net · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 8
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · License plate bracket: front · Mirror color: body-color · Paint: special factory paint · Rear bumper color: body-color
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: driver side auto-dimming
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: mulitlevel · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather
Security
Power door locks: anti-lockout
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: full-size
Steering
Turns lock-to-lock: 3.2
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Stabilizer Bar: diameter 24 mm · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Stabilizer Bar: diameter 15 mm · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system w/voice activation · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: all season
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Driver knee airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
6 disc in-dash CD · Premium Brand: JBL · AM/FM radio · Sirius Satellite Radio · Total Number of Speakers: 12 · 360 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.7 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.2 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Interior accents: wood · Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Cruise control: adaptive · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: side mirrors · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): two 12V · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: cargo net · Sunshade: power rear window · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: power · Power adjustments: 8
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · License plate bracket: front · Mirror color: body-color · Paint: special factory paint · Rear bumper color: body-color
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: puddle lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather
Security
Power door locks: anti-lockout
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: full-size
Steering
Turns lock-to-lock: 3.2
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Stabilizer Bar: diameter 24 mm · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Stabilizer Bar: diameter 15 mm · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system w/voice activation
Tires
Type: all season
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing