Toyota Camry LE Sedan Shown

2010 Toyota Camry LE Sedan Shown

The Toyota Camry quietly debuted late in the 1983 model year, when Toyota replaced its old rear-wheel-drive Corona with the front-wheel-drive Camry, a car aimed specifically at the U.S. market. From these humble beginnings, the Camry would go on to dominate the midsize family sedan segment for virtually all of the next quarter-century, as consumers immediately embraced it for its high build quality, comfortable ride and impressive durability.

Initially available only with a four-cylinder engine, the Camry soon saw the option of a V6 and, as the years went by, upgrades in size, luxury and feature content. The Camry's immense popularity in the U.S. inspired Toyota to set up a manufacturing plant in Georgetown, Kentucky, in the late 1980s. In addition to the base DX and well-equipped LE versions, more trim levels became available, including the sporty SE and posh XLE. Even an all-wheel-drive Camry, dubbed the "All-Trac," was available for several years.

Still upholding its strong reputation despite a few recent blips on the radar screen with regards to reliability, the Toyota Camry continues to be a top choice for those seeking a roomy, comfortable and dependable family car.

Current Toyota Camry

Completely redesigned for 2007, the latest Toyota Camry is offered solely as a front-wheel-drive, midsize four-door sedan. The four traditional Camry trim levels are offered: base, popularly equipped LE, sporty SE and luxurious XLE. Even the base model includes air-conditioning; power windows, door locks and mirrors; cruise control; a tilt-telescoping steering wheel; tire-pressure monitoring; a six-speaker CD audio system; front seat side airbags; full-length side curtain airbags; and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS.

A 2.4-liter inline-4 (158 horsepower, 161 pound-feet of torque) is the base engine, while a powerful 3.5-liter V6 (268 hp, 248 lb-ft) is available on all trims except the base model. Transmission choices for the four are a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic, while the V6 sends its power through a standard six-speed automatic. A gas-electric hybrid Camry is also available and, along with 192 hp, it offers EPA estimates of 33 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

In reviews, we've commented favorably about the Camry's spacious cabin, powerful and fuel-efficient optional V6, plush ride quality and top crash test scores. Downsides to the latest Camry include some disappointing interior plastics, inconsistent fit and finish and uninspiring driving dynamics for non-SE models.

Past Toyota Camry Models

The Toyota Camry debuted late in the 1983 model year. With each generation typically lasting five years, five generations of Camrys have preceded the latest version. The last two generations will be of particular interest to shoppers looking for a solid choice in the used-car market. The 2002-'06 Camry is a stylish, comfortable sedan that offers a roomy cabin, a choice of inline-4 or V6 power and, depending on trim level and optional equipment, most of the latest safety features such as stability control and side curtain airbags.

The 1997-2001 Camry sedan was somewhat bland in appearance but, like the more recent versions, offered a quiet, stress-free driving experience. Many desirable modern features were also available, including side airbags and antilock brakes (which became standard on all trim levels except the base CE).

Although a Camry older than 1997 is likely to have quite a few miles on it, it is still something to consider for folks on a tight budget. Provided it has been faithfully maintained, a 1992-'96 Camry (which was available in coupe, sedan and wagon body styles) should be able to spin its odometer to nearly 200,000 miles without major problems. It's this final trait, more than any other, that has kept the Toyota Camry popular with buyers over the last two decades.

Via :edmunds

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