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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  Camrys Great - 2013 Toyota Camry
  By Philip Lee - January 22 - 9:31 am

  The SE is a fine car for a moderate price.

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  Oil and Engine Issues :( - 2009 Toyota Camry
  By Nick Franky - January 21 - 11:48 am

  Ive had my car for a while now. I bought it in 2011, 2 years old for about 13k. After replacing the melting dash, door protectors and starter. I now have issues with oil, I took my car for its scheduled oil change and the mechanic says..."You have no oil in you car, and its back firing, I think you should take it to the dealer because we wont be able to do an oil change". So I take my car to Toyota and the keep it over night. they tell me nothing seems wrong but the are testing the oil consumption I have to bring it back within 1200 miles. BUUUUUUUT my check engine light is on and when I start my car it trembles, I have to let it sit for a while or restart the car. This was my first car I bought all alone, Finally paid for in full and this POS gives me hell after I make my final payment(April) . oh yeah, a mechanic told me its about 6k to fix, car is only worth 5k! I dont think I will buy another Toyota...Honda here I come.

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  So far so good - 2009 Toyota Camry
  By kvp - January 17 - 6:10 pm

  I had almost decided to buy an Accord before I test drove a Camry. Its much smoother and quieter than an Accord. Even though the I4 Camry is rated at 158 HP, lower than the I4 177 Hp Accord lx and 190 HP EX models, I didnt feel a great deal of difference between Camry and Accord LX. Hands down, the Honda has a better quality interior. The Accord had a tighter and a bit more responsive steering and suspension (not by much). But I was immediately impressed by the silky smooth engine, soft shifting and quietness of the Camry. Also Camry LE was cheaper with 16 inch alloys and moon roof than Accord LX-P. I like it so far (fingers crossed).

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  Cool Car - 1993 Toyota Camry
  By mia2106 - January 17 - 3:53 pm

  I really do love this car. It is my first car and I think I did a great job. So far I had the transmission and radiator flushed, my oil changed. The car did not pass inspection because there is leaking power steering fluid. So now I have to get my rack and pinion replaced. Other than that, my car is in excellent condition. The interior and exterior is in great condition. The car only had 93110 miles on it, when I purchased it. The car runs smooth as silk.

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  Another satisfied customer. - 2016 Toyota Camry
  By M. Crosby - January 17 - 2:50 pm

  This is our 4th Camry and the second SE that weve owned since 2002. We have been impressed with the quality and reliability of the Camry product. No major repairs on any of them, just routine maintenance. We took this new 2016 on a 1,600 mile vacation with no problems and the car handled very well. This years SE rides smoother than our 2013 SE, maybe because of the 17 inch tires. The cab is quiet too. New features on this model include the back-up assist camera, which is a nice feature. The interior is nice and the finish materials are a step up from recent models. We are happy with this 2016 Camry SE and plan to continue to purchase Toyota products.

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  What happened? - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By Joe - January 17 - 6:33 am

  Grown man loyal Toyota fan sitting here crying. Just came back from the dealer after trading in my lemon.Trans burned out-yes a Toyota Camry with a burnt trans at 110,000 and I babied the car for the 3 years it lived.Quote was $4500 new $2000 used trans.This was after $1300 blown #1 manifold 3 months earlier and the blown oil line $400 mentioned here before. Car was a gem up to 75,000 then my check book opened. Trans slippage between 1st and 2nd gear occurred since new and 1 day trans just blew. My letter to Toyota will sit on the pile they already have. Too big too fast is causing Toyota to become Chrysler. FYI-dealer bought the car-$7000. I bought it new for $28,000 3 yrs and 110,000 mi ago

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  Camry great in mileage - 2005 Toyota Camry
  By john - January 17 - 4:03 am

  I love the way it handles, best of all comfort and good miles per gallon.

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  What I Expected - 2002 Toyota Camry
  By vsatking - January 15 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car today from the 3rd owner. It was well cared for and it shows. My Camry has a 5 speed. The shift throw is not as tight as a Passat but it does a good job. I bought this car over anything i test drove. Really a good car. This is my second Camry and only the second car I have been totally happy with.

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  Never Thought Id Own One - 2002 Toyota Camry
  By joe belvedere - January 14 - 10:33 am

  What can I say? This is one solid automobile. The words refined, substantial and solid come to mind. It rides better than any car Ive owned (over 20), and so far, overall mileage has been around 20 mpg (mostly NYC driving). Got it with 19,700 miles on it and its like new. The engine is extremely quiet and responsive. Interior is well thought out, with many storage areas. Even the stereo (JBL upgrade) is a killer. May it last forever!

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  less pay for the value - 2014 Toyota Camry
  By jjj33 - January 10 - 2:48 pm

  I bought 2014 Camry L at $ 17,888. Its really cheap for the value. Its very comfortable, and smooth. I had 2004 Camry for 5 years, But this 2014 model is much better 2004 model at every aspect. Honda Accord is over 21,000 dollars even they sell on sale price. Only one thing I am no satisfied with the Camry is MPG. In town, I got around 26 MPG even though I drive very conservatively, and softly. with my old 2004 Camry I had have 29 - 30 MPG in town even though EPA mileage of 2004 (20 town/ 29 highway). But the 2014 Camry EPA mileage (25 town/ 35 highway). But I drive only around 400 miles in town. Of course, in highway I got very high MPG (40 MPG in HWY).