TOYOTA CAMRY 2012

The Toyota Camry quietly debuted at the end of model year 1983, when Toyota replaced its old rear-wheel-drive with front wheel drive Corona, Camry, a car designed specifically for the U.S. market. From these humble beginnings, the Camry has dominated the segment, midsize sedan family for virtually all next quarter century, as consumers immediately embraced it for its high quality construction of the ride, comfort and impressive durability.

Initially available only with four-cylinder engine, the Camry, soon saw the option of a V6, and as the years pass, upgrades in luxury, size and content of appeal. The immense popularity in the U.S. inspired Camry Toyota opened a manufacturing plant in Georgetown, Kentucky, in late 1980. More trim levels became available, including SE and XLE luxury sport.

It still retains its strong reputation despite a few recent blips on the radar screen in terms of reliability, the Toyota Camry remains the ideal choice for those seeking a spacious family car, comfortable and reliable.

Current Toyota Camry

The latest Toyota Camry is offered only as a front-wheel drive, four-door sedan of medium size. Four trim levels are offered traditional Camry: base, LE XLE, sporty SE and luxury. Even the base model includes stability control, air conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, tilt steering wheel-and-telescopic system of a six-speaker CD audio, radio, satellite and Bluetooth.

The 169-horsepower 2.5-liter inline-4 engine is the base and the SE gets a 179 hp version of the same engine. A powerful 3.5-liter V6 (268 hp, 248 lb-ft of torque) is available on all trims except the base model. transmission options for the four are a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic (standard on the XLE), while the V6 sends its power through a standard six-speed automatic. A gas-electric hybrid Camry is also available, along with 192 hp, which gives EPA estimates of 33 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

In review, we commented favorably about the Camry’s spacious cabin, powerful and fuel-efficient V6 optional, plush ride quality and test results of top accident. Disadvantages include Camry for the last few disappointing interior plastics, inconsistent fit and finish and uninspiring driving dynamics of non-SE models.