The Toyota Camry remains very popular despite midsize sedans losing ground to crossovers; it was the best-selling car in its class in 2022. According to statistics from Motor Intelligence, Toyota made relatively few modifications for 2023 after over 295,000 purchasers purchased Camries last year. The 192.1-inch length Camry, now in its seventh generation, underwent a thorough facelift for the 2018 model year. Because of its modern appearance and the family sedans are often more reserved, it has held up well over time.
The Camry has five basic trim levels: LE, XLE, SE, SE, and the sporty XSE. The SE, SE all-wheel drive, and hybrid models can also access Nightshade aesthetic modifications. In particular, there are five trim levels for the four-cylinder and hybrid: LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade, and XSE. All four-cylinder trim levels are equipped with all-wheel drive. The V6 is available with a spoiler and sport-tuned suspension as the TRD, XLE, or XSE. The standard front-wheel drive LE model for four-cylinder cars cost $27,315 (plus a $1,095 destination charge), while the all-wheel drive (AWD) variant costs $28,715. The Camry XSE V6 starts at $37,190, while the hybrid Camry LE starts at $29,430.
The Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Nissan Altima are some of its primary competitors. While the Altima has all-wheel drive (AWD) available, the other two have hybrid options. Both have more head and legroom in the front seats, while the Camry has higher headroom in the back seats. Although the Honda Accord’s exact specifications are still unknown, we know it will offer the most trunk and rear-seat legroom of any midsize sedan for the 2023 model year. Compared to the Camry, the new Accord’s 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and revamped hybrid powertrain will produce more torque but fewer horsepower. However, it will not be available in high-performance or all-wheel drive (AWD) variants.
Depending on the model level, the 2.5-litre four-cylinder Camry engine produces between 202 and 206 horsepower and 182 and 186 pound-feet of torque. There isn’t another engine with all-wheel drive available. The 3.5-litre V6 produces 267 pound-feet of torque and 301 horsepower. When driven alone, the hybrid’s 2.5-litre engine produces 163 pound-feet of torque and 176 horsepower; however, the combined gas-electric system produces 208 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is used with the gas engines, while an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) is used with the hybrid.
In its base four-cylinder version, the Camry typically drives comfortably despite having little steering feel. It is quick and rides well. On the other hand, the XSE TRD with a V6 engine is swift and surprisingly fast. The hybrid is the most pleasant since it can convert between gas and electricity nearly flawlessly and automatically. It can also produce an EPA-rated combined fuel economy of 46 mpg in most trims and 52 mpg in the lowest LE trim. After all, the Camry is, first and foremost, a sensible vehicle, and the hybrid achieves that objective.
All Camry trim levels come with dual-zone automatic temperature control, a power driver’s seat, and genuine or imitation leather seat trim; the entry-level LE features fabric upholstery. Although the central touchscreen is framed by asymmetrical lines in the crowded interior design, we admire Toyota for creating a distinctive character. Excellent fit and quality are present, along with several soft-touch areas. Adaptive cruise control, emergency front braking, lane departure warning with steering help, and automatic high-beam headlights are standard driver-support features on all models. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic warning is standard on higher trim levels and optional on lesser trim levels. It seems sense that the Camry is so well-liked considering what you get for the money.
Performance: Toyota Camry
A 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with front-wheel or all-wheel drive powers the Toyota Camry from the factory. Depending on the model, it produces 182 to 186 pound-feet of torque and 202 to 206 horsepower. A 3.5-litre V6 with 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque is also offered. There is just one gearbox available for gasoline engines: an eight-speed automatic.
There are three trim options for the V6. the TRD model, XLE, and XSE. This most recent model has bigger front brakes, 18-inch wheels with summer performance tires available, and rides 0.6 inches lower than the previous Camries. Combined, they generate unimaginable performance in previous V6 Camry models, pushing the Camry’s dynamics to new heights. It isn’t as refined as the 2022 Accord Touring 2.0T. While some 2.0Ts are still available on dealer lots, the model won’t be produced beyond 2023. The 290-horsepower Hyundai Sonata N-Line and Kia K5 GT will be the TRD’s closest rivals this year.
Although the hybrid Camry would probably be most people’s first pick because all Camry versions are enjoyable to drive due to their fuel efficiency. It has a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 208 horsepower when paired with the electric motor, or 176 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque when used alone. An almost smooth transition between the vehicle’s gasoline engine and electric motor is made possible by a continuously variable gearbox (CVT), ensuring the hybrid setup offers the best balance of power and economy.
Like a conventional hybrid, it runs without a plug and uses regenerative braking to recharge its battery. The “EV (Electric Vehicle) Mode” button is there, however it serves no use. At extremely low speeds, it keeps the vehicle running only on battery power, although the system achieves it anyway. The mode also turns off if you depress the throttle even slightly.
Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Camry
The Camry has three engine options, many trims, and front- or all-wheel drive. Its fuel efficiency ratings are competitive yet span a broad range. The EPA rates the basic LE and SE trims at 32 mg combined, 28 mg in the city, and an impressive 39 mg on the interstate. Each measure is reduced by one mpg by the XSE and XLE trim. All-wheel drive has a cost; the LE and SE get 29 mpg overall, 24 in the city, and 34 overall, while the XLE and XSE only receive a single mpg reduction in combined mileage.
The 2.5-litre Sonata delivers the same 32 combined, 28 cities, and 38 highway mpg as its four-cylinder competitors; the 1.6-litre turbo gets one mpg in each statistic. The Nissan 2.0-liter turbocharged model achieves 29, 25, and 34 mpg. However, the Altima 2.5 only manages 32 combinations, 27 cities, and 39 highway mpg.
First, in terms of fuel economy, the Camry Hybrid LE has EPA ratings of 52 mpg combined, 51 mpg in the city, and 53 mpg on the highway. It is rated 46 combined, 44 cities, and 47 highways in the last four trims. With the same parameters, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Blue delivers 52 combined, 50 cities, and 54 highways, while the basic hybrid returns 47, 45, and 51. While EPA ratings for the new 2023 Accord Hybrid and Hybrid EX-L are still pending, the 2022 model’s overall mileage ranges from 47 to 48 mpg, with the Hybrid Sport scoring 3-5 mpg less.
Driver assistance and safety:
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awards the Toyota Camry the highest five-star crash test rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also awarded it the highest rating, Top Safety Pick+. Nevertheless, the Camry now has a “Poor” rating in the IIHS’s side-impact test, which is being updated with a more significant, faster-moving barrier to better imitate being struck by an SUV. Right now, the new exam isn’t considered when determining Safety Pick honours, but that will change at some point in 2023.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ is a suite of driver-assist technologies standard on all Camry trims. These technologies include adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beam headlamps, lane-tracing and road sign assistance, and automatic emergency front braking with pedestrian detection. Ten airbags and a rearview camera, which is standard on all new cars, are also included in all trim levels. Furthermore, rear cross-traffic alert with blind-spot detection is a $600 option on the LE and SE models, but it comes standard on higher trims.
Coziness & Space:
Although the Camry’s back seat occupants have more space than the front, it isn’t as extensive as some of its rivals. The front seat has 42.1 inches of legroom and 37.5 inches of headroom. With 40 inches of headroom and 44 inches of legroom, the Hyundai Sonata surpasses it. Although the Hyundai must find a way to make up for its increased front-seat space, the Toyota has the most rear-seat headroom (38.3 inches) and legroom (38 inches), outstripping even its closest competitor, the Sonata (which has 40.4 inches). The Altima is 35.2 inches, and the current 2022 Accord is 40.4 inches.
All Camry models come with a power driver’s seat, and the seats are supportive and comfy. All other LEs feature actual or imitation leather upholstery, save the primary LE with a cloth. Most levels come with heated seats as standard, a heated steering wheel as an option, and ventilated seats on higher trims.
Infotainment: Toyota Camry
The 7-inch touchscreen display on the LE and SE trims may be upgraded to a 9-inch screen as part of the standard Audio Plus package on all XLE and XSE models. With JBL, the V6 XLE and XSE gain Audio Plus. It sits above the dash and opens several options using hard buttons. Whether standard or optional, a wireless phone charger has a bigger screen.
Although they aren’t wireless, both infotainment systems support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There is a satellite radio trial period included with all sets. Additionally, you will get trial periods for Toyota’s Connected Services, which include phone apps that allow you to remotely locate your vehicle, lock and unlock it, start the engine, and receive safety and servicing alerts.
Storage & Cargo Space:
The trunk of the Camry is somewhat smaller than the category average of 15.1 cubic feet, just slightly more significant than the Subaru Legacy‘s 15 cubic feet. With 15.4 cubic feet, the Nissan Altima is marginally more significant than the Chevrolet Malibu, which has 15.7 cubic feet. The Honda Accord’s trunk will have 16.7 cubic feet, while the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 will have 16 cubic feet.
Still, putting things into the Camry is simple because of its enormous trunk opening and low lift-over. The TRD has a fixed rear seatback, while the other 60-40 split rear seats fold practically flat for hauling more extended objects. A covered console box, spacious door pockets, and an open cubby in the center stack for good, if not unique, small-item storage up front.
Design: Toyota Camry
The Camry’s most daring stylistic element is its massive grill, which gives it a rather nose-heavy appearance. With its practical rear-end style and somewhat sporty flared fenders, the remainder of the vehicle has a more classic appearance. Its lowered beltline gives it an aggressive appearance without compromising headroom. While other grades have 18- or 19-inch wheels, the LE Hybrid and LE ride on 16- and 17-inch wheels, respectively. Only the Nightshade Edition versions have an eye-catching matte-bronze design measuring 19 inches.
This class’s interior designs are often cliched, but the Camry’s asymmetrical dash and unique center stack make it enjoyable. This cottage cannot be mistaken for anything else.
Is the 2023 Toyota Camry Worth It?
The starting price of the base Camry LE is $27,315 (destination cost included). That is higher than its nearest competitors, the Nissan Altima at $26,385 and the Hyundai Sonata at $26,045 (the pricing of the brand-new 2023 Honda Accord had not yet been revealed at the time of writing). The starting price of the Subaru Legacy is $25,415. However, the highest Camry trims are priced lower than the top trims of rival vehicles, and the Camry is the sole vehicle with a starting V6 price of $34,380.
The fuel-efficient Camry Hybrid, available in five trim levels ranging from $29,450 to $34,890, may provide the most significant overall value. For $30,985, you can get the SE, which comes with 18-inch wheels, pushbutton start, easy-to-clean faux-leather upholstery, power driver’s seat, bi-LED combination headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, three USB ports, and Safety Sense 2.5+ driver-assist suite. You can also opt for blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert for an extra $600. The $34,340 XLE Hybrid, a step up in terms of luxury, has blind-spot monitoring, heated leather seats, LED exterior lighting, a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and ambient lighting inside.
How Much Does Toyota Camry Insurance Cost 2023?
The Camry’s insurance costs are comparable to those of its competitors. An average yearly premium for a typical 30-year-old female driver with a spotless record is around $2,095 for the basic model and up to $2,277 for the highest trim level Hybrid version; even the sporty TRD trim costs about $2,210. Drivers of comparable cars, such as the Honda Accord, may spend around $2,100 annually for all trim levels, although the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 begin at about $2,200 and $2,130, respectively.
Toyota Camry Generations
Eighth Generation
2018 to Present
The eighth-generation Camry premiered with all-new sheet metal with the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform switch. With 202–206 horsepower, it is propelled by the same 2.5-liter engine seen in the seventh-generation vehicles. Higher trim levels may be selected for a V6 with 301 horsepower, and an eight-speed automatic gearbox was standard on all vehicles. For the LE, SE, and XLE models, a hybrid engine with 208 horsepower and a continuously variable gearbox was also an option. Toyota introduced the TRD variant for the 2020 model year, which included the V6 and sports performance-oriented suspension and brakes and unique visual features, including 19-inch wheels and a rear spoiler.
Seventh Generation
2012 to 2017
A 178-horsepower, 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine was updated for the seventh-generation Camry. The SE and XLE models came with the same V6 upgrade as the previous generation, and this was the first version to remove the option for a manual gearbox. Bluetooth, USB connections, cruise control, and keyless entry for higher model levels were also new. The 2012 model year saw a significant redesign of the Camry due to a mid-cycle update; it retained the same engine but gained a sportier-looking XSE variant.
Sixth Generation
2007 to 2011
Once again, the sixth-generation Camry saw size increases along with the addition of other new features. Four trim levels—CE, SE, SE, and XLE—each with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower. All bar the essential CE was offered a bigger 3.5-litre V6 with 268 horsepower, and a hybrid engine debuted. Additionally, a five- or six-speed gearbox was added. The Camry Solara was phased out in 2009.
Fifth Generation
2002 to 2006
For the fifth generation, a taller and longer Camry with the same economy and performance made its premiere. With 157 horsepower, the new basic engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder. The option to be mated with a manual gearbox was removed, but the V6 was retained. For the 2004 model year, the second-generation Camry Solara got a significant overhaul.
Fourth Generation
1997 to 2001
With sleeker, more aerodynamic looks at launch, the fourth generation Camry premiered. Additionally, its wheelbase extended by two inches. With a little more power, the available engines were still 2.2-litre and V6 models, producing 133 and 194 horsepower, respectively. The wagon version of the Camry was discontinued in 1997 when it rose to the top of the American auto sales charts. For the 1999 model year, the Camry Solara made its début as the Camry Coupe’s successor. A convertible version of the Solara was introduced to the range in 2000.
Third Generation
1992 to 1996
With a more extensive body and a redesign, the third-generation Camry was categorized as a midsize sedan. For the first time, its bigger size set it apart from the Camrys offered in foreign countries. A 3.0-litre V6 and a new 2.2-litre four-cylinder powerplant were installed in the sedan and wagon. To boost its sporty appeal, the two-door Camry Coupe debuted for the 1994 model year before being discontinued in 1996.
Second Generation
1987 to 1991
The second generation Camry maintained the same body layout, but with a longer, broader body and a bigger trunk, it offered additional internal room. In addition to introducing a wagon to the range, the 2.0-litre engine was tweaked to produce 112 horsepower. After opening a new plant, Toyota began producing Camrys in the US in 1988. It also had a 2.5-liter V6 with 153 horsepower and a new four-cylinder all-wheel drive engine.
First Generation
1983 to 1986
The Toyota Camry was introduced in 1991 as a compact four-door sedan and replaced the rear-wheel-drive Corona. It came in sedan and liftback body types and had a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 92 horsepower that was mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. It was powered by front-wheel drive.
Verdict
The Toyota Camry, a consistent bestseller in the United States, has not altered much for 2023. The flagship grade is the hybrid, which can get up to 53 mpg in the basic LE trim. The V6 engine generates 301 horsepower, while the four-cylinder engine provides all-wheel drive. Although it doesn’t have as much trunk capacity as its rivals, it can still fit enough groceries or bags, and its interior is spacious and cosy. It has excellent crash test results and various standard driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning with steering assistance. If you are searching for a classic, unpretentious family car, the Camry should be at the top of your list.
