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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  le. Just ok! - 2016 Toyota Camry
  By J Martin - November 4 - 1:08 am

  Purchased a 2016 LE approx 2 months ago.....3000 miles later...the verdict. Basic transportation....good room for 4 adults. Stereo sucks....pitiful speakers..no bass. Rear doors sound cheap when closed. Does get 32 mpg-at least according to the computer....Guess I was spoiled by my 2 Hondas.. Why on earth did Honda go to CVTs? Bought it because several of my co-workers have them. Less than thrilling, is all I can say!

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  Great car for the bucks - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By bajabob - November 4 - 12:30 am

  We have been waiting since 02 to buy a new Camry after having rented one on a trip. The ride and handling are much improved on the 06 as well as the reduction in road noise. The majority of our driving is short city trips with a small amount of highway driving. In spite of this we averaged 27.44 mpg on the first tank and 28.56 mpg on the second. The 2.4 liter 4 cyl delivers all of the power one could wish for and the transmission shifts without any noticeable feel of having done so. I would recomend this vehicle to anyone wanting a car of this size. The huge trunk is also an added plus for handling all the normal things one would normally need to haul in it.

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  Never thought I would drive a Camry - 2005 Toyota Camry
  By JJLuc - November 3 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a Nissan Maxima for the 2005 Camry SE. There were only 3 left in the state so I settled for the silver one (like in the photo). Right away, you notice how much more refined this car is versus the Maxima. Although the Maxima has a super engine, the transmission was shaky. This Camry looks great, at first I didnt even know it was a Camry. The 3.3 V6 is smooth and quiet, the 17" wheels and spoiler give it a sporty look. Toyta reliability should be super. I test drove a Passat V6, Altima V6, Accord V6, I just liked the Camry better, it feels more solid and refined.

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  My New 10 year old 07 Camry - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By Ernie S. - November 1 - 2:26 pm

  I just "inherited" this car from my wife when we purchased a new SUV. It is an 07 SE V6 Model, sunroof, leather, alloys,ect, with 59,000 miles. Over the 10 years of ownership, I have driven it only for long trips. Originally we were going to sell it and purchase something with high mpg, since I have to drive 100 miles round trip for work. But once I started driving daily, while we searched for a replacement, I fell in love with this Camry, esp the 34 mpg highway mileage (60 mph top speed). The V6 (14.3 sec 1/4 mile times according to numerous magazine tests) is incredible. Very fast. Smooth ride and very quiet. The only complaints I have, keeping in mind it is a 10 year old car, is the super white paint and the low height of the car. Seems like I am sitting on the ground as I drive, although part of that is my previous ride was a 4x4 Tundra which is quite a bit higher than the Camry. The white paint, and I have taken excellent care of and waxed this car often since purchase, appears to have developed a haze and chips very easily on the hood. I have read numerous other complaints about the white and believe it is a factory defect. But, for 10 years old, it is what it is. Love this car!!!!

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  A Sporty Camry?? - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By GATOR - October 30 - 7:50 pm

  So you thought Toyota couldnt make a sporty Camry, right? Absolutely wrong! I just purchased a 2007 Camry SE and believe me it is sporty. My Barcelona red metallic exterior and dark charcoal interior are a perfect combination. The ground effects, rear spoiler, sport suspension, moon roof, and blacked out grill only add to the excitement. It is very roomy inside with Bluetooth, Sirius JBL radio with 8 speakers, nice trim, and a well appointed dash cluster. The ride is very quiet, sometimes IÂ’m not sure the engine is even on. Im not sure how Toyota did it, but they have just made AmericaÂ’s #1 selling car into a newly revised monster that is even better. My hat off to the Toyota team!

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  GREAT CAR - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By James B - October 30 - 2:00 am

  I lvoe my Camry. I have had probs with it, but that lies with teh dealership, Toyota 101. But the car is excellent. I like how it has 8 speakers,especially the ones on the top dashboard. Music quality is good with JBL. Overall this is a great car. It smoother than my other car, a 840ci BMW. This is a great car. I love it and would recommend it. The new design is a lot better than the old 2001 version. Rides like a luxary car and cant be any better. Truely the best camry yet!

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  Good family car - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By family dude - October 27 - 5:56 pm

  For the price, you cant beat the ride. Taken the car to its limit (about 120, really) and it was as if I was going 70. The handling isnt sporty, but its still precise and very predictable. I dont find that it floats (like a new Buick I recently drove), maybe just too isolated from the road. LE came with horrible Continental tires, which screamed around any turn. Got Michelins and the Camry cornered far better. Had some issues just recently with repairs. At over 95,000 miles, all the engine mounts had to be replaced. Big dollars. But recently had the tires balanced and rotated as well the alignment redone. Car rides great again. A great used car if thats what you are looking for.

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  2006 Camry XLE - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By TCAM - October 26 - 11:26 am

  Purchased 2006 XLE with options GU and HD. Car rides smooth and excellent handling . Placement of audio controls on steering good idea bad location ( should be at 3 oclock or 9 oclock) not 5 and 7.

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  Get An Avalon Instead Of A Camry! - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By Mike - October 26 - 2:10 am

  To start, I have three cars and all are Toyotas. I have 2000 Toyota Avalon XLS, a 2006 Toyota Avalon limited and a 2007 Toyota Camry LE. I do not recommend a Camry at all because it has too many flaws. Styling is bland, the engine isnt strong at all, and the car doesnt deliver good comfort while driving it. Furthermore, the steering feel is awful and so is the handling. My Avalons are far bigger yet, they have better handling and driving cars than this Camry. The seats arent comfortable either. I dont like driving this car at all because it drives awfully. Instead of purchasing a 4cyl Camry or even a 6cyl model, I truly recommend an Avalon XL which is a far better car all around.

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  Camry - 2002 Toyota Camry
  By genesmith - October 25 - 10:00 am

  Excellent car. Full featured. Looks and feels like a Lexus.