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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  So far so good - 2000 Toyota Camry
  By Greaseman - March 10 - 5:16 pm

  Ive only had this car about a year and a half. So far this car has been great. Only have had one problem which was that I needed to replace the starter at 106,000 miles. The dealer wanted $307 for a new starter. I found a new Bosch starter for $125. I love the V6 engine. Its very quiet and smooth and is a very good highway cruiser. The premium sound system is top notch. My mechanic told me I made a good choice and in his opinion the Camry is one of the best cars built today for the money. Gas millage is what is advertised as long as you dont get into the throttle. Got 27.2 mpg on a trip to Vegas. The large gas tank gives a good range between fill ups.

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  Excellent Car for Short People - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By Calliey - March 9 - 10:00 am

  This is my third Toyota Camry. Ive had a 96 Camry & 99 Camry; bought all brand new. The 2003 model year is my least favorite. They have downsized it too much. If this was the first time I had bought a Camry, it wouldve been my last. Its so uncomfortable because the bottom of the seats are too short; not enough support. If you are 53 or shorter then you will like this car. I was told it was 3 inches larger than the other models. It seems much smaller to me.

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  Great Car!! - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By Dwight - March 8 - 6:03 pm

  Traded a 2003 V6 XLE for a 2007 V6 XLE. Couldnt believe that Toyota could make a better product, but they did!

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  Money Well Spent :-) - 2001 Toyota Camry
  By Court Court - March 8 - 10:03 am

  I love my Camry. I have a 01 CE and the only complaint I have is the design is boring, but my car is reliable. Ive put around 61k miles on it since I bought it in 06 and at a little under 130k its still going strong. Replaced charcoal canister a few months after purchase, very minor. Outside of oil changes, brake changes and new tires and alignment Ive had absolutely no problems. Timing belt is due (probably overdue) to be replaced. I love my car and Im going to ride her until the wheels fall off. Im actually in the market for a new vehicle and because of my wonderful experience with "Deja" more than likely Ill be buying another Camry.

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  Very Reliable Vehicle - 2001 Toyota Camry
  By Jessica Tipton - March 5 - 10:13 pm

  I purchased this vehicle in 2002. It has been extremely reliable. My Camry currently has 107000 miles on it and all I have ever done to it mechanically is have the oil changed and the battery replaced. It gets excellent gas mileage (28 MPG/HWY). I have one child and the backseat is plenty roomy/comfortable for her. My Camry LE is a Gallery edition so it has several extras that make it look nicer/sportier than the traditional Camry.

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  Whats up with the tranny?? - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By Buyer Beware - March 5 - 8:36 am

  we bought the 2007 Camry for the fuel economy. I was hoping to get 32 mpg but it runs around 25-29 mpg. Anyway the biggest drawback to the car is that you can not use the cruise control in any small hill. This car will rev up to 5500 in a second and it almost drives me crazy. Oh and the brights dont turn off anymore on mine. So much for toyota.

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  215,000 miles and going strong - 2010 Toyota Camry
  By J. Cop - March 4 - 9:28 am

  Im not your typical highway-only driver. I live in the country on dirt roads. I drive this car hard and fast. It gets driven through mud and down dirt roads every day. When I finally make it onto the highway, I drive it at least 60 miles a day and usually closer to 120 miles a day. I bought this car used with 25,000 miles on it. I now have 215,000. The only thing Ive done other than oil and tires is fix one thing (I cant remember what it was called) that cost me $200. I did that around 200,000 miles. It came with a lot of warranty but I never had to use it. I drove the miles out pretty fast because I drive a lot. The only problem I have is my road is terrible so I wear tires out pretty fast. I get mud on the inside of the tires and they wear unevenly sometimes. But, that is not the cars fault. I have had two deer hit the car on the drivers side. It did some cosmetic damage, but the car held firm on the road and no passengers were injured. So, it can take a hit and keep on trucking. The last hit was pretty hard. I never hit my breaks because I didnt see it coming. So, the air bags did not deploy and were not needed. It was a large buck. Took out most of the front, drivers side. But, Im still driving it. The insurance company says it will cost more to fix it than it is worth so that tells you the damage. I think this car is amazing. And, if I can drive it off-road, you should be fine driving it on paved roads. :) Even after 5 years of a hard life, it still handles great, the interior is great (2 kids later). All the bells and whistles still work - windows roll up and down, AC works, etc. I have had to add some freon the last couple of summers..but other than that the AC has worked great. If I were being overly picky, my only complaints would be...I dont like the USB connection location. It is hard to get to. And, it doesnt charge when the car is off. It does have cigarette lighter chargers that are better located. But, the fuze went out and I havent replaced it. Tthe charcoal gas emissions thing is malfunctioned and makes it hard to pump gas. The pump clicks off several times before i the car is full. This happened on my previous camry also. I think the canister is full of dirt. But, it is expensive to fix so I live with it. If you have the chance to purchase a 2010 Camry, do it. You wont regret it. Oh...I also average 25-32 mpg and I drive at least 75 mph because Im in Texas and we do that here. :)

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  It Doesnt Get Any Better! - 1992 Toyota Camry
  By MISSRIA310 - March 3 - 8:03 am

  I mean its no Lexus but boy can this car go and go and its still going. It is now 15 years old with 136k miles. This is my first car and I have developed a special type of appreciation for it. I have never done anything except for the reg. maintenance, all of the parts are still original and my mechanic says it still has a long way to go. My uncle was the previous owner and he took great care of it. I am so impressed with Toyota that I wouldnt even consider another make. Why should I. This is a great first car and its great for college students like me. And another great thing, the body of the car doesnt look like that of a 92 model, it looks way newer than it is.

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  Boring, but reliable - 1998 Toyota Camry
  By EAJ - March 1 - 1:36 pm

  Bought used with 30,000 miles and now have 125,000 on it. Only had to replace tires, brakes (once), battery, timing belt (per service interval), oil pressure sensor (5 minute job) and fluids. It could use new struts and an EGR valve, but other than that, the car has been wonderfully trouble-free. My only complaints would be that the engine rattles a bit, the radio buttons are falling off, and with the 4 banger and auto, the acceleration is uninspiring. It does handle very well and gets good mileage. Stock hubcaps made car look pathetic, but I replaced 14" wheels/hubcaps with 16" Avalon alloys and 55 series tires and the car has taken on a completly different look and feel. Good car.

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  Another review - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By E-roc69 - February 28 - 6:46 pm

  I now have 20,600 miles on the car. Mostly wife driving as I still wont drive this. I got into it last week and discovered a springing noise from the rear susp. Most likely a bushing issue. I bring it in for the rear end spring noise and the still rattling dashboard. They wont fix it, service mgr and I road test car and we cant hear the rattles. It was raining all night so it most likely made the dash more pliant. They say I need to leave it over night next week when its cold so they can test it in the morning. They refused to apply 2 TSBs even though its under warranty. I cant wait till I get rid of this car.