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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  Leaking Roof, No Fix - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By Leaking Roof, No Fix - July 12 - 8:46 am

  My sunroof developed a rattle during winter. I have taken it to dealership in excess of 10 times and even when they cannot fix it. Now that the roof has been touched so many times it has also started to leak and I got a puddle in my lap. The dealerships response- cannot duplicate the roof leak. Cost cutting has gone too far at Toyota. Otherwise the car is great with its feel and quietness. The 4 cylinder does not get good mileage at 70 MPH plus. Below it you can expect to get good mileage only if you do not have too many hills. The new transmission shifts too frequently to truly optimize gas consumption.

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  2014 Toyota Camry SE Rocket Ship - 2014 Toyota Camry
  By starchild110 - July 11 - 10:48 am

  1st off, I am a Toyota Salesman. I own a 1956 Ford Victoria, a 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS 396, 2002 Chevy Silverado and 20 days ago, a 2014 Toyota Camry SE 4 cylinder w/17" rims. Now, I am used to vehicles with big muscle and horsepower...crappy MPG just goes with the program...when I first saw the 14 Camry SE in Cosmic Gray I fell in love. What a sexy car. Now, what would make me think about purchasing a 4 cylinder car? All I have to say is drive one. This is a fast car that, in my car, is giving me 29 MPG. Sexy style, comfort, power, quiet, excellent handling, value and its gonna last 500,000 miles. Try that in any other car besides a Honda. The ride is affected with the 18" rims.

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  Camry SE - 2005 Toyota Camry
  By A. Hughes - July 11 - 12:33 am

  I traded my 2002 RAV4 in on the 2004 Camry SE. What a difference a couple more cylinders makes! Its so nice to be back in a V6 and to have power once more. The car drives and rides so smoothly. Its nearly effortless, but doesnt have that mush-box luxo car feel sort of effortless drive to it. You actually get road feedback. It does have that torque steer of a front wheel drive, so be prepared for that, but its not as bad as some other cars that Ive driven. Overall, its a great car with a lot more room than youd think at first glance. I strongly recommend it.

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  What a Letdown - 2007 Toyota Camry
  By Papa - July 10 - 11:43 pm

  Comparing it to my 03 Camry, I have been frustrated by this cars lack of reasonable performance. The engine has a horribly long hesitation when trying to accelerate and the transmission downshifts with the slightest throttle pressure and on the most minor upgrades. I have averaged 25 mpg over 3800 miles, which is substantially less than the 30mpg I averaged with my 03. The dealer and factory have evaluated the car and agree with my concerns, but say there is no solution at this time. Buyers of 4-cyl 5AT - do extensive test drives on at least two different Camrys and compare to several competitors.

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  Love this car!!! - 2005 Toyota Camry
  By lamardis - July 10 - 4:56 pm

  After having an SUV, I swore that I would never own another car. I was wrong... I love this car!!! The seats are comfortable, that back has plenty of leg room... my husband is 6 ft and has no problems with roominess. the trunk is HUGE! I live in the mountains, and my 4cyl. is plenty strong to climb without any trouble.

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  Good Machine - 2009 Toyota Camry
  By nolanm - July 10 - 10:04 am

  The transmission is quick to kick down to a lower gear and hold the rpms high when I need it to. When Im driving easy it drives easy as well and gives me soft buttery shifts at low rpm. It also has an engine braking feature that automatically downshifts if it senses I am dragging the brakes on a long grade. You couldnt ask for a better automatic. Handling is soft which I prefer, but it also has great feel at the limit, if a turn is taken too fast it behaves predictably and its easy to regain control. I love the interior, its minimalist by design, very classy. Too bad others deride it for lacking more chrome rings and ugly doodads.

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  Must have been a lemon - 2003 Toyota Camry
  By Magdy - July 7 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Toyota based on word of mouth. however, I didnt feel the car was all that great. Maybe my expectations were a little too high for a Camry. Turned out to be a major disappoinment. Had to replace tires at 15,000, then again at 21,000. Car has cheap interior design, 4-cylinder is extremely underpowered. Exterior design was sharp, however. I could not recommend this car to anyone. Others in its class are more exciting.

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  Great Car - 2005 Toyota Camry
  By MemphisCar - July 7 - 10:00 am

  Picked up my New Camry and it drives so well. Looks good - They had 3K off 2004 but the 2005 looked better so I went for it. Daughter owned a 89 Camry that is still on the road! One reason I went wiht Camry. Dealership was fair and the salesman Mr. Duckworth made things fast and easy. Drove it off the lot with 7 miles on it.

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  Great car - 2012 Toyota Camry
  By enginemedic21 - July 7 - 5:53 am

  We purchased this vehicle to replace my wifes problem infested 2003 Maxima. So far after 5000 miles weve really enjoyed the Camry.Its very smooth,great on gas(were averaging 30 mpg mixed driving), and the Entune system is very easy to use and impressive.We did drive an Altima and Accord before purchasing this vehicle and found the Camry to be the sportiest and come with the most options for a better price than the other two. The standard Toyota Care that comes with the vehicle complimentary make it an even better deal. My wife locked her keys in her car and a rep was able to come out within the hour to unlock her vehicle for her. She also has complimentary roadside assistance!

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  New 06 Camry LE - 2006 Toyota Camry
  By TD - July 7 - 12:20 am

  After years of owning mini-vans and hauling tons of kids around, it was time for a sedan once again. Went shopping for a decent used car and ended up at a Toyota dealer and saw a silver 06 LE Special Edition with the body kit and BBS wheels. I always thought the Camry was a boring old lady car but this package changed the whole looks. My wife said it looked as good as a BMW. The car was a dealer demo and had only 7k miles, so they put up some hefty discounts. Came away with a $26K ride for a shade less than $20K.