2024 Toyota Camry Review

The Toyota Camry has performed its role so effectively and consistently that it has transcended being just a sedan—it's become an institution. Despite facing a decline in sales amidst an SUV and pickup-obsessed market, the Camry has maintained its status as the best-selling sedan in the U.S. for over two decades. Within Toyota's lineup of well-known vehicles, the Camry stands out as one of the most recognizable.

The 2024 Toyota Camry, a popular midsize sedan, is offered with both traditional gasoline and hybrid engine options. We appreciate the Camry for its expansive interior, providing ample space for passengers in both rows, and a generously sized trunk. Notably, the Camry continues to offer six-cylinder powertrains, distinguishing itself from competitors like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata, which have transitioned to inline-four engines exclusively.

This means that the Toyota Camry appeals to a broad spectrum of buyers, offering a robust 301-hp V-6 option on one end of the spectrum and a fuel-efficient hybrid four-cylinder trim on the other. Moreover, the current generation of this spacious five-seater has incorporated stylish design elements, enhancing its well-established reputation for reliability. The Nightshade package, featuring cool bronze wheels, adds a touch of sophistication to the Camry's overall appeal.

Features:

Engine & Power :

The standard four-cylinder engine is mated to a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, but its acceleration performance leaves much to be desired. In the hybrid configurations, a less potent iteration of the same engine is combined with a battery and two electric motors, resulting in a sedan that doesn't offer a more exhilarating driving experience compared to the base powertrain. However, our sentiments towards driving the Camry have improved, largely thanks to the silky 301-hp V-6 available on the XLE, XSE, and TRD variants.

The steering is aptly weighted for the car's intended purpose—substantial during cornering and light for maneuvering in parking lots. The dynamics have been finely tuned to deliver a controlled ride and surprisingly responsive handling. Even in the hybrid model, where friction and regenerative braking must coexist, we found the Camry's brake pedal to be responsive and appropriately firm, avoiding the tendency to feel excessively soft.

Fuel Economy :

The LE and SE models equipped with the four-cylinder engine stand out as the most fuel-efficient nonhybrid Camry variants, boasting EPA estimates of 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. Meanwhile, the base LE hybrid takes efficiency to another level, achieving impressive ratings of 51 mpg city and 53 mpg highway. However, the hybrid's higher-tier trims trade some efficiency for luxury. On the other hand, models powered by the V-6 exhibit ratings of 22 mpg city and a maximum of 33 mpg highway.

In a notable feat, a four-cylinder Camry SE surpassed expectations by returning 45 mpg in the highway test, exceeding its own EPA rating by an impressive 6 mpg. This performance makes it the most fuel-efficient nonhybrid car ever tested, even outperforming the Camry XLE hybrid we tested by 1 mpg.

Interior & Comfort :

The Camry offers spacious and comfortable seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for a diverse range of drivers, especially during long journeys. Complementing this is a smooth ride that enhances the driving experience. The Camry goes further to create a pleasant cabin environment by incorporating a powerful and user-friendly climate control system, capable of effectively cooling the cabin even in triple-digit temperatures.

Regardless of the trim, the Toyota Camry maintains consistency in its instrument panel and center console design. While some may appreciate its slightly intricate lines and abundance of buttons, others may find it to be a matter of personal preference. The Camry's substantial size contributes to ample passenger space, numerous interior storage compartments, and a spacious trunk offering generous cargo capacity. For added versatility, the rear seats can be folded down to accommodate larger items.

In the hybrid models, Toyota has ingeniously relocated the substantial battery from the trunk to beneath the rear seats. This thoughtful design ensures that owners do not have to compromise on carrying capacity for the sake of achieving enhanced fuel efficiency.

Technology :

Toyota's Entune 3.0 touchscreen infotainment system comes standard across the entire Camry lineup, with an upgraded version available as an optional feature. Entune impresses with its multitude of features and demonstrated responsive handling in our tests. The system also boasts standard compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Camry's smartphone integration includes not only standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but also Amazon Alexa.

Whether equipped with the standard 7-inch or the optional 9-inch infotainment touchscreens, both are designed for easy readability and user-friendly operation. For those who prefer built-in navigation, it is available on higher trims. The Camry ensures ample connectivity with three USB ports, and the option to add a wireless charger further ensures that all occupants have sufficient battery charge on the go.

What’s new in 2024 Toyato Camry?

The only modification for the year 2024 is the removal of Amazon's Alexa interface from Toyota's infotainment system. Aside from this adjustment, the Camry remains unchanged from the 2023 model.

Which model do we recommend?

We recommend opting for the SE trim level as it strikes a delightful balance between value and performance without compromising on comfort or efficiency. Additionally, this trim provides desirable features such as a panoramic sunroof and a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic warning.

Potential competitors :

The Honda Accord, Kia K5, Subaru Legacy, and Nissan Altima represent a diverse range of midsize sedans, each bringing unique features to the table. The Honda Accord is known for its reliable performance, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. Kia's K5, on the other hand, stands out with its sleek design, modern technology, and sporty driving dynamics. The Subaru Legacy, with its all-wheel-drive capability, appeals to those seeking enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. Meanwhile, the Nissan Altima emphasizes a blend of style and efficiency, offering innovative tech features and fuel-efficient engine options. Each of these midsize sedans caters to different preferences and priorities, providing consumers with a variety of choices in this competitive segment.

Conclusion :

An enduring icon in the realm of midsize sedans, the Toyota Camry holds a distinguished status as one of the most favored cars in the United States. With a production history spanning over 30 years, the current eighth-generation model was introduced for the model year 2018 and remains a stalwart choice. The 2024 iteration of the Camry retains its established features, albeit with the removal of in-car Amazon Alexa functionality. Highlighted by commendable safety ratings, advanced tech features, a potent V-6 engine, and a distinctive design, the Camry stands as a compelling option. However, it's not without its drawbacks, featuring a somewhat snug back seat and a TRD model that prioritizes style over substance. In comparison, critics argue that the newer Honda Accord surpasses the Camry, offering a superior overall experience.

FAQ's

Q1. What are the safety measures provided?

Every Camry includes Toyota's Safety Sense 2.5+, a remarkable suite of standard driver assistance features. This includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance.

Q2. What are the models available?

The 2024 Toyota Camry, a midsize sedan, is offered in six trim levels: LE, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE, XLE, and TRD. Most trims come standard with a four-cylinder engine, while a 301-horsepower V6 is optional for the XSE and XLE and standard on the TRD.