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REVIEW: Camry still has a winning formula

Even though Toyota has already debuted a completely redesigned version of the Camry at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show (as a 2018 model), the 2017 model is still an outstanding vehicle with first-class family car character.

Even though Toyota has already debuted a completely redesigned version of the Camry at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show (as a 2018 model), the 2017 model is still an outstanding vehicle with first-class family car character.

As one of the best-selling vehicles in North America year after year, it’s hard to argue with the Camry’s formula: bullet-proof reliability, pleasant design, feature-rich equipment, and highly refined ride and feel.

On the other hand, the Camry is a pure family car, whose mission is to serve North American families in the most comfortable and reliable manner with very little regard to sportiness.  This is expected to change when the 2018 model arrives later in the year complete with fancier design and a more sporting characteristic.

Design

The Camry’s bodywork is smooth and somewhat generic – it’s a look that’s easy on the eye and pleasant for general audience. At a closer study, it is solidly built and well put together with an attention to detail and no unsightly panel gap.

The Camry’s styling hasn’t changed for 2017, carrying on the design update from a few years ago but with the addition of different alloy wheels and LED running lights.

Even though the design refresh occurred in the interior and exterior in 2015, it is starting to look a little dated; good thing the car will be updated with something completely new this year.

Performance

The Toyota Camry is known for its comfortable and smooth ride and spacious interior. After driving this car over a variety of road types, it becomes obvious that Toyota’s first mission for the Camry is a smooth and refined ride. The Camry Hybrid isn’t slow either; it is actually quicker than the regular non-Hybrid four-cylinder Camry.

Fuel economy is the big factor when choosing a hybrid car, and the Camry Hybrid comes in at 5.8 (litres/100 kilometres) in the city and 6.3 on the highway. It achieves this by utilizing a 2.5-litre DOHC 16-valve VVT-I Hybrid synergy drive engine in conjunction with an electric motor pushing out a net 200 horsepower total.

You can choose between EV mode and Eco mode. The EV mode runs the car as a pure electric vehicle for short trips to the shops and around town. All Camry models are front wheel drive.

The Camry Hybrid uses a CVT transmission, which is smooth around town and predictable on the highway, although it doesn’t show much aggressiveness during hard acceleration.

While the handling is balanced and the car tracks straight, the overall feel is numb and artificial. This is an area Toyota promises to change with the 2018 model, so we look forward to driving the new Camry which will hopefully boast a bit more attitude.

Environment

Riding in the Camry is an enjoyable experience and passengers can relax in full leather seat surfaces. Both front seats are power adjustable with the driver’s seat having eight-way and the passenger four-way adjustment as standard. The leather trimming doesn’t finish there, with its contrast stitching gracing the doors and dash too. Because there is plenty of headroom and legroom in the front and back, this car is clearly designed to haul family members with ease.

The test drive Camry had 10 JBL Audio speakers, digital XM Satellite radio entertainment system and automatic dual zone climate control system. These are features that are typically available in luxury models.  

Even though this Camry is the most technology-packed model to date, the interior remains simple and intuitive. The centre console is uncluttered and the seven-inch AVN monitor touch screen is an improvement over competitors’ versions (Ford and GM, please pay attention!).

The trunk is sizeable at 13.1 cubic feet of space – it’s slightly smaller than other Camry models due to the battery cells, but who’s complaining about that when they’re getting fuel economy of 5.88 liters per 100 kilometres.

Features

All models are generously equipped, with such standard features as touch screen display audio with Bluetooth capability and USB input, air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry, and more.

The Camry hybrid is available in LE, SE, and XLE versions.

Safety is always important in a Toyota and the Camry’s features include a forward collision warning system, lane departure alert and auto high beam (XSE V6, XLE V6, SLE Hybrid) to keep safety front and centre. You can also get a blind spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert – this system detects vehicles approaching from the side using a millimetre wave radar sensor, and then alerts you. All Camry includes as standard 10 airbags, a backup camera and the Toyota Star Safety System.

Starting prices for the Camry range from $24,970 for the base LE, up to $36,450 for the Hybrid XLE and $36,520 for the XLE V6. The Camry is available in six different models and the hybrid in three as previously mentioned.

Thumbs up

Predictable and comfortable; the Camry is the smooth and reliable car of choice.

Thumbs down

A little numb in handling, perhaps beginning to feel a bit outdated.

The bottom line

The Toyota Camry has deservedly earned a reputation for offering excellent build quality and strong resale value. This is the car that will always deliver reliability and comfort above all else.

Competitors

Ford Fusion: The Fusion is a great-looking car with an affordable starting price. To help you find the perfect car to suit your needs, Ford offers several models and a wide range of features to choose from. The handling is a bit better than the Camry and the overall feel is slightly sportier.

The Fusion starts at $23,688 and ranges up to $45,088.

Honda Accord: Even in the base model, the Accord’s cabin feels more upmarket than many expect. What you have in the Accord is superb reliability and worry-free ownership. The Accord’s handling is more nimble than the Camry and perhaps the best in this class.

Available in eight trim levels, the Accord ranges in price from $24,590 to $36,390.

Nissan Altima: The 2017 Nissan Altima is a roomy, comfortable family sedan with great fuel economy, nice road manners, and handsome looks. The handling is above average and the price is reasonable considering that it’s well equipped.

Starting prices for the Altima range from $23,998 for the base 2.5, up to $35,498 for the 3.5 SL.

editor@automotivepress.com