Experiencing the $43,000 Toyota Camry: An Enhanced American Favorite

Debuting in 1983, the Toyota Camry set the benchmark for dependable if somewhat uninspiring family vehicles in the United States.

In the previous year, Toyota surpassed 290,000 sales of the Camry in the U.S., outpacing competitors such as the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia K5. This achievement marked the sedan's 22nd year as America’s top-selling passenger vehicle.

This year, the Camry has transitioned to an all-hybrid lineup, offering new styling and technology.

A Week with the 2025 Toyota Camry XSE in Atlanta's Suburbs

The latest Camry left a positive impression with its seamless hybrid powertrain, excellent fuel economy, cozy ride, modern technology, and well-thought-out interior design.

However, I do miss the V6 engine from previous versions and wish that some high-tech safety features weren't limited to expensive add-ons, even for premium models.

The Price Tag of My Test Car: $43,194

The entry-level Camry LE with front-wheel drive begins at $28,400, while my high-end XSE AWD test model starts at $36,125.

Shipping fees and several costly optional tech and design enhancements pushed the total cost of the Kentucky-manufactured sedan past $43,000.

Revamped Design in the Ninth-Generation Camry

The ninth generation of the Camry reflects a refined evolution in design, embracing sharper and more assertive lines.

Conceived by Toyota's design teams in California and Michigan, the Camry’s signature look includes a hammerhead front similar to the Prius and Crown Signia SUV.

The vehicle's appearance is eye-catching and leaps away from the bland designs of its earlier versions.

Sportier Appeal with the XSE Trim

The XSE and SE trims are crafted as the Camry's "sport" variants, introducing aerodynamic enhancements like active front air vents, side canards, and a rear diffuser.

My test vehicle boasted 19-inch dark grey metallic wheels, available for an additional $1,500.

Dimensions: Slight Growth in the Latest Model

The 2025 Camry, resting on Toyota's TNGA-K platform similar to its predecessor and the Lexus ES, maintains a length of 193.5 inches, matching the Hyundai Sonata and just shy of the Honda Accord.

Sole Engine Offering: 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder with Hybrid System

Toyota has discontinued last year's four-cylinder petrol and V6 options.

Each Camry now includes the time-tested hybrid system, comprising a 184-horsepower, 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine paired with a 134-horsepower electric motor and a lithium-ion battery.

This combination provides 225 horsepower to the front wheels, managed by an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission.

All-wheel-drive variants, like my test vehicle, feature an additional 40-horsepower electric motor on the rear axle, enhancing the total power to 232 horsepower.

During testing, the all-wheel-drive XSE achieved EPA ratings of 44 mpg for city and combined driving, with 43 mpg on highways.

Matching EPA figures closely, even with lively driving in this 3,700-pound sedan, is a commendable feat.

For greater fuel efficiency, consider the base front-wheel-drive Camry LE, which boasts a combined rating of 51 mpg, similar to a Prius.

Daily Drive Comfort: The Camry's Core Strength

Though the XSE trim implies sportiness with its stiffer suspension, the Camry excels in everyday comfort.

Its ride remains serene and accommodating.

The hybrid system's electric motors deliver smooth, spirited starts and keep enough power for merging and passing on highways.

A gentle drone from the four-cylinder can be heard under heavy throttle use, but it’s not too distracting.

While the hybrid is impressive, I still somewhat miss the roaring V6 engine of previous Camrys.

Achieving a respectable 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds, the hybrid all-wheel-drive falls a second behind the previous V6 model.

Interior Excellence: Camry's Well-Designed Cabin

Toyota has ensured the Camry's cabin blends functional design with smart ergonomics, offering ample storage and charging solutions.

The quality of materials and construction is superior, with soft-touch elements in frequently used areas.

Comfortable Seating: Adjust the Leather Front Seats with Ease

The front leather seats provide good support but could benefit from enhanced thigh support.

Driver's Comfort: Heated Leather Steering Wheel and More

A heated leather steering wheel with paddle shifters stands in front of the driver, alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster unique to the XLE and XSE trims.

Advanced Tech: A 12.3-inch Touchscreen at the Top of the Console

While an 8-inch touchscreen is standard, my test car featured the upgraded 12.3-inch version. The user-friendly infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across all trims.

An optional 360-degree camera system was also equipped in my test car.

Rear Comfort: Spacious and Enjoyable Seating for Passengers

Rear passengers benefit from 38 inches of legroom, balancing nicely between larger and smaller competitors like the Accord and Sonata.

Ample Trunk Space: 15.1 Cubic Feet for Cargo

The trunk of the Camry, slightly smaller than the Sonata and Accord, still offers generous cargo space.

Additionally, a spare tire is conveniently stored beneath the cargo area.

Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as Standard

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is equipped with vital functions like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warnings. However, features such as front and rear cross-traffic alerts require purchasing additional packages.

Conclusion: The Camry Remains America’s Preferred Choice

While SUVs and electric vehicles command market attention, it's crucial not to overlook midsized family sedans like the Camry.

The car is a practical choice, offering comfort, a hybrid powertrain, and advanced technology.

Holding its position as America’s best-selling car for 22 years, the Camry's popularity shows no sign of waning.