Overview & Reviews

The Toyota Camry quietly debuted late in the 1983 model year, when Toyota replaced its old rear-wheel-drive Corona with the front-wheel-drive Camry, a car aimed specifically at the U.S. market. From these humble beginnings, the Camry would go on to dominate the midsize family sedan segment for virtually all of the next quarter-century, as consumers immediately embraced it for its high build quality, comfortable ride and impressive durability.

New or used, the Camry comes pretty highly recommended. As the Camry sells in such high numbers, finding one that matches your criteria should be pretty easy. It is worth noting that the family segment has improved greatly in more recent years. Many competing sedans have matched or outpaced the Camry in terms of quality and desirability, particularly in comparison to the sixth-generation model. The latest version of the Camry, however, has largely shored up the car's reputation as a go-to choice.

Current Toyota Camry
The five-passenger Toyota Camry is offered in L, LE, SE, SE Sport and XLE trim levels with a choice of two engines. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder produces 178 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, while the available (depending on trim) 3.5-liter V6 makes 268 hp and 248 lb-ft. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission offered, and sends power to the front wheels.

The Camry L's feature highlights include air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, a touchscreen display and a six-speaker sound system with a USB interface. Stepping up to the LE gets you a few more features, while the SE spices things up with a sport-tuned suspension and sporty styling treatments. The SE Sport features bigger wheels, a sunroof and a power driver seat. The luxurious XLE reverts to a softer suspension and adds a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats and leather upholstery (V6). A premium audio system with a larger touchscreen and upgraded navigation system can be added to XLE models.

It should be noted that halfway into the 2014 model year, the Camry's standard equipment was revised. As such, the rearview camera became standard across the board, the upper trims picked up some enhanced audio features and the Entune name was expanded to cover all of the car's infotainment systems (not just the one with smartphone integration).

In reviews, we've praised this Toyota Camry's interior, which provides roomy seating, admirable outward visibility and well-placed controls. What the cabin design lacks in cohesiveness, it makes up for with generally good materials quality, especially the handsome stitching on the dash and door panels of upper trims. Toyota's Entune system is also praiseworthy in the way it easily adds enhanced audio, information and navigation features, although the touchscreen's virtual buttons can be a little frustrating to use at times.

Overall, this Camry provides the comfort and the quiet and smooth ride that should please a wide swath of midsize sedan shoppers. Power and fuel economy are excellent with either engine as well. The only major downside is the car's handling, which isn't as lively or engaging as that of other top family sedans, such as the Honda Accord or Nissan Altima.

Used Toyota Camry Models
The latest (seventh) generation Toyota Camry debuted for 2012 and has a number of significant improvements over the previous one. The interior is significantly nicer than before, and the four-cylinder engine is more powerful. Yet the car is still unmistakably a Camry, with a focus on pragmatic appeal and convenience. Changes since have been minimal. For 2014, the SE Sport trim level joined the lineup, while halfway through that model year saw some minor equipment shuffling that included the rearview camera becoming standard across the board.

The previous sixth-generation Camry was produced for the 2007-'11 model years. In reviews, we commented favorably about the Camry's spacious cabin, powerful and fuel-efficient optional V6, plush ride quality and top crash test scores. Unlike older Camrys, though, this one was let down by disappointing interior plastics, inconsistent fit and finish and uninspiring driving dynamics for non-SE models. It's a respectable choice for a used family sedan, but we thought more highly of competing models, such as the Ford Fusion and Nissan Altima.

For most of its production run, the Camry was offered in LE, SE and XLE trim levels. The entry-level model was labeled as the CE trim, but only for the first year. Base and LE models came fairly well equipped, while the SE brought with it a sport-tuned suspension. The softer-sprung XLE included items such as a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power passenger seat, reclining rear seats and leather upholstery (V6). Most of the features on the higher-trimmed models were offered on supporting trims as options. Other major options included a sunroof and a navigation system.

This Camry was offered with either a four- or six-cylinder engine, with improvements made over the years. The initial base engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced 158 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque (slightly lower in California and other states). A five-speed manual or five-speed automatic was available, though four-cylinder XLEs were automatic only. The 3.5-liter V6 produced 268 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque and was paired to a six-speed automatic only.

In 2010, the base engine was increased to 2.5 liters and power output was boosted to 169 hp. The SE was further pushed to 179 hp. Both manual and automatic transmissions were also upgraded to six speeds. Other 2010 changes included a restyled grille and taillights, and standard stability control, satellite radio and Bluetooth for all models.

Previous to this was the fifth-generation car that was produced from 2002-'06. As expected, it was a comfortable sedan that offered a roomy cabin, a choice of inline-4 or V6 power and, depending on trim level and optional equipment, most of the latest safety features such as stability control and side curtain airbags. However, prior to 2005, the base Camry did not come standard with antilock brakes. As with other Camrys, we generally found this generation to be very good in terms of room, comfort and feature content.

Three engines were available for this generation. The first was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that made 154 hp (145 with PZEV emissions controls). It was mated to either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission (four-speed prior to '05) and should be powerful enough for the majority of buyers. A 3.0-liter V6 that generated 190 hp was also available (18 hp less prior to '04) on the LE and XLE trim levels, while a 210-hp, 3.3-liter V6 (introduced for 2004) was available on the SE model only. These six-cylinder Camrys came with the automatic only. In previous years, these power numbers were higher because of a change in measurement that occurred in 2006, although actual output never changed.

Like the more recent versions, the 1997-2001 Toyota Camry sedan offered a quiet, stress-free driving experience. Many desirable modern features were also available, including side airbags and antilock brakes (which became standard on all trim levels except the base CE). It, too, was offered with four- and six-cylinder powertrains.

Although a Camry older than 1997 is likely to have quite a few miles on it, it is still something to consider for folks on a tight budget. Provided it has been faithfully maintained, a 1992-'96 Camry (which was available in coupe, sedan and wagon body styles) should be able to spin its odometer to nearly 200,000 miles without major problems. It's this final trait, more than any other, that has kept the Toyota Camry popular with buyers over the last two decades.

User Reviews:

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  Quality Car - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By douglj - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I owned an Oldsmobile Alero prior to getting the Camry and after 8 months I am still amazed by how much better the Camry is. The quality is far better than any GM, Ford or Chrysler I have ever driven. I would buy another Camry in a second!

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  If it is used, it is used up. - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By john797 - August 27 - 6:04 pm

  The 2.4L Camry is a mid-sized car which feels like a mid-sized car inside, parks like a mid-size car outside, and sips gas like a compact... and drives with the slushy feel, vague steering, handling, and turning circle of a much larger car. The drivers seat is extremely uncomfortable. Some of the interior luxury features like heated seats are nice. The mpg computer over-states the gas mileage by a bit, but it still does very well for such a large car. Reliability is where it all falls down. All 2006s are out of warranty now and repairs are very expensive. If you want a used 2006 be sure to get the V-6 which reportedly doesnt have the problems the 2.4L does.

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  Our First Camry - 2017 Toyota Camry
  By Wayne Albrecht - August 27 - 4:53 pm

  The 2017 Camry SE was our first Camry and our 4th Toyota overall. We bought the car on 3/11/17 but had been shopping around for awhile. We had looked at Honda, Kia and Hyundai. While the others came close (The Accord being just a little less expensive), our loyalty with Toyota and the local dealership was the determining factor. Pros: Handles great, smooth and relatively quiet ride, nice body look (A Classy/Sporty mix), interior is intuitive and smart, very comfortable, easy visuals from all angles while driving, price is reasonable for its class and features. Cons: Only one, really; gas mileage. Overall, the 2017 Camry is a solid car and, if like our last few Toyotas, will be in the family for a long time.

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  Not what you think - 1998 Toyota Camry
  By Itschuck - August 26 - 10:23 pm

  Well at 80k a new engine due to oil sludge, Toyota covered it but not assuring. Lots of little cheap trim that broke and bubbled. Exterior gold emblems all cracked and peeled, paint didnt hold up at all, mottled and splotched. Sheet metal is incredibly thin, had to drill out the license plate bolts cause they rusted in place.

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  Worst Purchase Ever - 2002 Toyota Camry
  By John - August 26 - 7:23 am

  I purchased this car used at the time it had around 60,000 miles. The reason for this purchase is because the great talk about them, I found out different. At about 85,000 miles the dealer put in a new transmission, because I was having slipping problems. Round 95,000 the dealer put a new lower end in my motor. The check engine light comes on and off at random, the suspension is rough, gets around terrible in any wet (rain, snow) conditions, it has terrible fuel economy (hwy miles) I am lucky to get anything over 25 miles to the gallon. All I can say is thank goodness the transmission and engine were covered since it was a Toyota Certified purchase.

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  Toyota = Quality and Reliability - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By tanner - August 26 - 4:26 am

  Our Camry is used for a family car and has not had a single problem. Oil change, new tires and battery..thats it!

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  Solid, Reliable Car - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By Brandon - August 25 - 7:03 pm

  This is an overall great car. Never any problems, only routine maintenance. I drive hard and it still responds like it did 70k miles ago. It may not be the most exciting car in the world, but you dont have to worry about taking it for repairs all the time or paying a ridiculous amount for gas. Its nice to have a paid off car that it still somewhat modern looking and you know youll be able to drive for another 100k+!

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  Cannot beat a Toyota - 2015 Toyota Camry
  By Navy Vet - August 25 - 1:14 am

  What is up with some of the negative reviews I do not get it. I am a 6f tall, big boned American military veteran and I love these cars. I owned a 2003, 2009 and a few years ago, I upgraded to a 2015 and got a good deal, $22,000 out the door. What I LOVE about the 2015 Camry LE. The body has grown by 1.8 inches in length and .04 inches in width and I feel comfortable driving the car for long distances. I have the 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 178 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. I am averaging 25 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, for a combined 28 mpg, which is just fantastic! I am also basing these ratings on the fact that the mid level LE trim is under $25,000 new. The steering, handling and driving is great and cracking the 200,000 mile barrier should not be a problem. There is plenty of front space, as for the passengers in the back seat, it is not bad. Toyota gives a decent trunk size and I can fit all of my groceries. Here is what Toyota could improve on. It does not have the sexiest interior and exterior design but then again if you wanted that, you would be researching sports cars. Toyota charges a premium for upgrades. The XLE package costs around $35,000 new and that is Lexus prices. Other rivals might offer a few more bells and whistles but overall I will take reliability, safety, fuel economy and maintenance cost over anything else.

• 

  Cannot beat a Toyota - 2015 Toyota Camry
  By Navy Vet - August 25 - 1:14 am

  What is up with some of the negative reviews I do not get it. I am a 6f tall, big boned American military veteran and I love these cars. I owned a 2003, 2009 and a few years ago, I upgraded to a 2015 and got a good deal, $22,000 out the door. What I LOVE about the 2015 Camry LE. The body has grown by 1.8 inches in length and .04 inches in width and I feel comfortable driving the car for long distances. I have the 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 178 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. I am averaging 25 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, for a combined 28 mpg, which is just fantastic! I am also basing these ratings on the fact that the mid level LE trim is under $25,000 new. The steering, handling and driving is great and cracking the 200,000 mile barrier should not be a problem. There is plenty of front space, as for the passengers in the back seat, it is not bad. Toyota gives a decent trunk size and I can fit all of my groceries. Here is what Toyota could improve on. It does not have the sexiest interior and exterior design but then again if you wanted that, you would be researching sports cars. Toyota charges a premium for upgrades. The XLE package costs around $35,000 new and that is Lexus prices. Other rivals might offer a few more bells and whistles but overall I will take reliability, safety, fuel economy and maintenance cost over anything else.

• 

  Cannot beat a Toyota - 2015 Toyota Camry
  By Navy Vet - August 25 - 1:14 am

  What is up with some of the negative reviews I do not get it. I am a 6f tall, big boned American military veteran and I love these cars. I owned a 2003, 2009 and a few years ago, I upgraded to a 2015 and got a good deal, $22,000 out the door. What I LOVE about the 2015 Camry LE. The body has grown by 1.8 inches in length and .04 inches in width and I feel comfortable driving the car for long distances. I have the 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 178 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. I am averaging 25 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, for a combined 28 mpg, which is just fantastic! I am also basing these ratings on the fact that the mid level LE trim is under $25,000 new. The steering, handling and driving is great and cracking the 200,000 mile barrier should not be a problem. There is plenty of front space, as for the passengers in the back seat, it is not bad. Toyota gives a decent trunk size and I can fit all of my groceries. Here is what Toyota could improve on. It does not have the sexiest interior and exterior design but then again if you wanted that, you would be researching sports cars. Toyota charges a premium for upgrades. The XLE package costs around $35,000 new and that is Lexus prices. Other rivals might offer a few more bells and whistles but overall I will take reliability, safety, fuel economy and maintenance cost over anything else.