Pros

  • Hybrid variants offer great efficiency
  • Comes with plenty of standard features
  • Typical Toyota reliability
  • Greta support network

Cons

  • Infotainment system severely lags behind the competition
  • Not the most exciting form of motoring
  • Some base-grade interior plastics are cheap

Verdict

Should you buy a Toyota Camry? Yes.

Sure, it’s not going to impress your friends, and you’re not going to look back at it lustfully when you walk away in a car park, but if all you’re after is a car to be just that, a car, there are few...

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Publish: August 29, 2023

The Toyota Camry XV70, launched in Australia in 2017 and is still a current model, stood as a testament to Toyota’s evolution in car design and technology. Distinctively different from its predecessors, the eight-gen Camry showcased a blend of sportiness and elegance. The aerodynamic design, highlighted by sleek lines and a bolder grille, gave it an edge in modern aesthetics.

Engine-wise, the Camry presented multiple options catering to diverse needs. The 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine was designed for everyday efficiency and reliability. For those seeking a bit more thrust, the 3.5-litre V6 was a preferable option. However, the standout was the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol hybrid, which boasted an impressive fuel efficiency of around 4.2 litres/100km. This hybrid variant was an attractive choice for Australians mindful of rising fuel costs and environmental impacts.

Inside, the Camry didn’t skimp on luxury or technology. The interior was accentuated by quality materials and finishes, lending it a premium feel. Central to the dashboard was a touchscreen display which not only facilitated satellite navigation but also ensured seamless smartphone integration. This included popular features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota, keeping in line with global automotive trends, ensured that safety wasn’t secondary. Features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring were introduced, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to road safety.

The various trims, including Ascent, Ascent Sport, SX, and SL, allowed buyers to choose according to their preferences and budget. Especially the SL variant, which introduced more luxurious

The Toyota Camry XV70, launched in Australia in 2017 and is still a current model, stood as a testament to Toyota’s evolution in car design and technology. Distinctively different from its predecessors, the eight-gen Camry showcased a blend of sportiness and elegance. The aerodynamic design, highlighted by sleek lines and a bolder grille, gave it an edge in modern aesthetics.

Engine-wise, the Camry presented multiple options catering to diverse needs. The 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine was designed for everyday efficiency and reliability. For those seeking a bit more thrust, the 3.5-litre V6 was a preferable option. However, the standout was the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol hybrid, which boasted an impressive fuel efficiency of around 4.2 litres/100km. This hybrid variant was an attractive choice for Australians mindful of rising fuel costs and environmental impacts.

Inside, the Camry didn’t skimp on luxury or technology. The interior was accentuated by quality materials and finishes, lending it a premium feel. Central to the dashboard was a touchscreen display which not only facilitated satellite navigation but also ensured seamless smartphone integration. This included popular features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota, keeping in line with global automotive trends, ensured that safety wasn’t secondary. Features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring were introduced, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to road safety.

The various trims, including Ascent, Ascent Sport, SX, and SL, allowed buyers to choose according to their preferences and budget. Especially the SL variant, which introduced more luxurious inclusions, became synonymous with a touch of opulence in the Camry line. Despite its predominant image as a family and executive car, the inclusion of the 3.5L V6 ensured that when the road called for it, the Camry could be a sprightly companion.

The Camry’s pricing was well placed, offering extensive features without a hefty price tag. In the Australian automotive landscape, the Camry XV70 emerged as a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment, striking a balance between innovation, style, and unwavering reliability.

The Toyota Camry XV70, launched in Australia in 2017 and is still a current model, stood as a testament to Toyota’s evolution in car design and technology. Distinctively different from its predecessors, the eight-gen Camry showcased a blend of sportiness and elegance. The aerodynamic design, highlighted by sleek lines and a bolder grille, gave it an edge in modern aesthetics.

Engine-wise, the Camry presented multiple options catering to diverse needs. The 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine was designed for everyday efficiency and reliability. For those seeking a bit more thrust, the 3.5-litre V6 was a preferable option. However, the standout was the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol hybrid, which boasted an impressive fuel efficiency of around 4.2 litres/100km. This hybrid variant was an attractive choice for Australians mindful of rising fuel costs and environmental impacts.

Inside, the Camry didn’t skimp on luxury or technology. The interior was accentuated by quality materials and finishes, lending it a premium feel. Central to the dashboard was a touchscreen display which not only facilitated satellite navigation but also ensured seamless smartphone integration. This included popular features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Toyota, keeping in line with global automotive trends, ensured that safety wasn’t secondary. Features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring were introduced, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to road safety.

The various trims, including Ascent, Ascent Sport, SX, and SL, allowed buyers to choose according to their preferences and budget. Especially the SL variant, which introduced more luxurious inclusions, became synonymous with a touch of opulence in the Camry line. Despite its predominant image as a family and executive car, the inclusion of the 3.5L V6 ensured that when the road called for it, the Camry could be a sprightly companion.

The Camry’s pricing was well placed, offering extensive features without a hefty price tag. In the Australian automotive landscape, the Camry XV70 emerged as a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment, striking a balance between innovation, style, and unwavering reliability.

Exterior:

  • Some owners have complained about the paint chipping and flaking off.

 

Interior:

  • There are complaints about mobile connectivity issues with the infotainment system along with being generally poor quality, either being sluggish to use or unresponsive.

 

Mechanically:

  • The Toyota Camry Hybrid occasionally exhibits erratic transmission behavior in stop-and-go situations, but technicians struggle to replicate the issue for a fix.
  • The 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid has reported issues with grabby brakes
  • Many Camry owners report jerky or sluggish transmission, especially during gear shifts.

 

Recalls:

  • December 2019 – A manufacturing fault in certain Toyota Camry, Camry Hybrid, and Coaster models from the 2019 year range has led to potential seat belt locking mechanism failures in case of accidents, affecting 1,058 units and increasing the risk of inadequate restraint for occupants.
  • July 2019 – Toyota issued a recall affecting 2,186 units of Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Lexus ES300H, and Lexus UX250H vehicles from the year 2019 due to improperly manufactured brake booster pumps that could lead to the loss of brake assist while driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • April 2020 – Between 2013 and 2020, Toyota & Lexus models including Camry, Corolla, HiLux, and others, with a total of 85,511 affected units, experienced a fuel pump defect that could lead to engine stalling while driving, potentially causing accidents, injuries, or fatalities.

Exterior:

  • Some owners have complained about the paint chipping and flaking off.

 

Interior:

  • There are complaints about mobile connectivity issues with the infotainment system along with being generally poor quality, either being sluggish to use or unresponsive.

 

Mechanically:

  • The Toyota Camry Hybrid occasionally exhibits erratic transmission behavior in stop-and-go situations, but technicians struggle to replicate the issue for a fix.
  • The 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid has reported issues with grabby brakes
  • Many Camry owners report jerky or sluggish transmission, especially during gear shifts.

 

Recalls:

  • December 2019 – A manufacturing fault in certain Toyota Camry, Camry Hybrid, and Coaster models from the 2019 year range has led to potential seat belt locking mechanism failures in case of accidents, affecting 1,058 units and increasing the risk of inadequate restraint for occupants.
  • July 2019 – Toyota issued a recall affecting 2,186 units of Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Lexus ES300H, and Lexus UX250H vehicles from the year 2019 due to improperly manufactured brake booster pumps that could lead to the loss of brake assist while driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • April 2020 – Between 2013 and 2020, Toyota & Lexus models including Camry, Corolla, HiLux, and others, with a total of 85,511 affected units, experienced a fuel pump defect that could lead to engine stalling while driving, potentially causing accidents, injuries, or fatalities.

Exterior:

  • Some owners have complained about the paint chipping and flaking off.

 

Interior:

  • There are complaints about mobile connectivity issues with the infotainment system along with being generally poor quality, either being sluggish to use or unresponsive.

 

Mechanically:

  • The Toyota Camry Hybrid occasionally exhibits erratic transmission behavior in stop-and-go situations, but technicians struggle to replicate the issue for a fix.
  • The 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid has reported issues with grabby brakes
  • Many Camry owners report jerky or sluggish transmission, especially during gear shifts.

 

Recalls:

  • December 2019 – A manufacturing fault in certain Toyota Camry, Camry Hybrid, and Coaster models from the 2019 year range has led to potential seat belt locking mechanism failures in case of accidents, affecting 1,058 units and increasing the risk of inadequate restraint for occupants.
  • July 2019 – Toyota issued a recall affecting 2,186 units of Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Lexus ES300H, and Lexus UX250H vehicles from the year 2019 due to improperly manufactured brake booster pumps that could lead to the loss of brake assist while driving, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • April 2020 – Between 2013 and 2020, Toyota & Lexus models including Camry, Corolla, HiLux, and others, with a total of 85,511 affected units, experienced a fuel pump defect that could lead to engine stalling while driving, potentially causing accidents, injuries, or fatalities.

Body Styles

  • 4 door Sedan

Engines

  • 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol
  • 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)

Power

  • 135kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent Sport, SX, SL)
  • 131kW – 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 224kW – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)
  • 133kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)
  • 152kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)

Torque

  • 235Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent Sport, SX, SL)
  • 221Nm – 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 362Nm – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)
  • 231Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)
  • 243Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)

Transmissions

  • 6-speed Sports Automatic
  • 6-speed Constantly Variable Transmission
  • 8-speed Sports Automatic (SX, SL, Ascent)

Fuel Consumption

  • 4.2 – 8.9L / 100km

Length

  • 4885 – 4905mm (4 door Sedan)

Width

  • 1840mm (4 door Sedan)

Height

  • 1445mm (4 door Sedan)

Wheelbase

  • 2825mm (4 door Sedan)

Tare Mass

  • 1460 – 1615kg (4 door Sedan)

Kerb Weight

  • 1495 – 1655kg (4 door Sedan)

Towing

  • 500kg (unbraked), 1200kg (braked)
  • 400kg (unbraked), 400kg (braked)
  • 500kg (unbraked), 1600kg (braked) (SX, SL)

ANCAP Ratings

  • 5 stars (tested 2017)

Body Styles

  • 4 door Sedan

Engines

  • 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol
  • 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)

Power

  • 135kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent Sport, SX, SL)
  • 131kW – 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 224kW – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)
  • 133kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)
  • 152kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)

Torque

  • 235Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent Sport, SX, SL)
  • 221Nm – 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 362Nm – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)
  • 231Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)
  • 243Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)

Transmissions

  • 6-speed Sports Automatic
  • 6-speed Constantly Variable Transmission
  • 8-speed Sports Automatic (SX, SL, Ascent)

Fuel Consumption

  • 4.2 – 8.9L / 100km

Length

  • 4885 – 4905mm (4 door Sedan)

Width

  • 1840mm (4 door Sedan)

Height

  • 1445mm (4 door Sedan)

Wheelbase

  • 2825mm (4 door Sedan)

Tare Mass

  • 1460 – 1615kg (4 door Sedan)

Kerb Weight

  • 1495 – 1655kg (4 door Sedan)

Towing

  • 500kg (unbraked), 1200kg (braked)
  • 400kg (unbraked), 400kg (braked)
  • 500kg (unbraked), 1600kg (braked) (SX, SL)

ANCAP Ratings

  • 5 stars (tested 2017)

Body Styles

  • 4 door Sedan

Engines

  • 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol
  • 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)

Power

  • 135kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent Sport, SX, SL)
  • 131kW – 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 224kW – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)
  • 133kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)
  • 152kW – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)

Torque

  • 235Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent Sport, SX, SL)
  • 221Nm – 2.5i/88kW Hybrid 4-cylinder hybrid
  • 362Nm – 3.5 litre 6-cylinder aspirated petrol (SX, SL)
  • 231Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)
  • 243Nm – 2.5 litre 4-cylinder aspirated petrol (Ascent)

Transmissions

  • 6-speed Sports Automatic
  • 6-speed Constantly Variable Transmission
  • 8-speed Sports Automatic (SX, SL, Ascent)

Fuel Consumption

  • 4.2 – 8.9L / 100km

Length

  • 4885 – 4905mm (4 door Sedan)

Width

  • 1840mm (4 door Sedan)

Height

  • 1445mm (4 door Sedan)

Wheelbase

  • 2825mm (4 door Sedan)

Tare Mass

  • 1460 – 1615kg (4 door Sedan)

Kerb Weight

  • 1495 – 1655kg (4 door Sedan)

Towing

  • 500kg (unbraked), 1200kg (braked)
  • 400kg (unbraked), 400kg (braked)
  • 500kg (unbraked), 1600kg (braked) (SX, SL)

ANCAP Ratings

  • 5 stars (tested 2017)

Warranty

3 years / 100000 km

5 years / unlimited km (from January 1 2019)

Battery 8 years / 160000 km (2017 Ascent, 2017 Ascent Sport, 2017 SL)

Battery 5 years / unlimited km (2017 Ascent, 2017 Ascent Sport, 2017 SL)

Service Intervals

15,000 km / 12 months

Model range, pricing & features

XV70 Toyota Camry – 14

Ascent

Price when new: $27,690 - $33,490

Price used: $19,900 - $41,500

Equipment

12V Socket(s) – Auxiliary
17″ Alloy Wheels
6 Speaker Stereo
ABS (Antilock Brakes)
Adjustable Steering Col. – Tilt & Reach
Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning – Rear
Airbag – Driver
Airbag – Knee Driver
Airbag – Passenger
Airbag – Side Driver
Airbag – Side Front Passenger
Airbags – Head for 1st Row Seats (Front)
Airbags – Head for 2nd Row Seats
Alarm
Armrest – Rear Centre (Shared)
Audio – Aux Input Socket (MP3/CD/Cassette)
Audio – Aux Input USB Socket
Audio – MP3 Decoder
Bluetooth System
Body Colour – Bumpers
Body Colour – Door Handles
Body Colour – Exterior Mirrors Partial
Bottle Holders – 1st Row
Bottle Holders – 2nd Row
Brake Assist
CD Player
Camera – Rear Vision
Central Locking – Once Mobile
Central Locking – Remote/Keyless
Collision Mitigation – Forward (High speed)
Collision Mitigation – Forward (Low speed)
Collision Warning – Forward
Control – Electronic Stability
Control – Traction
Cruise Control – Distance Control
Cup Holders – 1st Row
Cup Holders – 2nd Row
Daytime Running Lamps – LED
Disc Brakes Front Ventilated
Disc Brakes Rear Solid
EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution)
Engine Immobiliser
Grab Handle – Drivers Side
Grab Handle – Passengers Side
Grab Handles – 2nd Row
Headlamp – High Beam Auto Dipping
Headlamps – Electric Level Adjustment
Headlamps – LED
Headlamps Automatic (light sensitive)
Headrests – Adjustable 1st Row (Front)
Headrests – Integrated 2nd Row
Hill Holder
Illuminated – Entry/Exit with Fade
Illuminated Vanity Mirror for Front Passenger
Independent Rear Suspension
Intermittent Wipers – Variable
Lane Departure – with Passive Steer Assist
Lane Departure Warning
Metallic Finish Interior Inserts
Multi-function Control Screen – Colour
Multi-function Steering Wheel
Park Brake – Electric
Parking Assist – Graphical Display
Power Door Mirrors
Power Steering – Electric Assist
Power Windows – Front & Rear
Radio – Digital (DAB+)
Rear View Mirror – Manual Anti-Glare
Remote Boot/Hatch Release
Seat – Driver with Electric Lumbar
Seat – Height Adjustable Driver
Seatback Pockets – 1st Row (Front) seats
Seatbelt – Adjustable Height 1st Row
Seatbelt – Load Limiters 1st Row (Front)
Seatbelt – Pretensioners 1st Row (Front)
Seatbelts – Lap/Sash for 5 seats
Seats – 2nd Row Split Fold
Smart Device App Display/Control
Spare Wheel – Full Size Steel
Storage Compartment – Centre Console 1st Row
Sunglass Holder
Sunvisor – Illuminated Vanity Mirror for Driver
Tail Lamps – LED
Trim – Cloth
Voice Recognition

MY21 Update

Control – Pedestrian Avoidance with Braking
Airbags – Side for 1st Row Occupants (Front)
Smart Device Integration – Android Auto
Smart Device Integration – Apple CarPlay
Brakes – Regenerative
Driving Mode – Selectable
Engine – Stop Start System (When at idle)
Cross Traffic Alert – Front
Door Pockets – 1st row (Front)
Door Pockets – 2nd row (rear)
Spare Wheel – Full Size Alloy Wheel
Speed Zone Reminder – Road Sign Recognition

Ascent Sport

Price when new: $29,990 - $36,290

Price used: $21,700 - $43,900

Adds:

Air Cond. – Climate Control 2 Zone
Central Locking – Key Proximity
Chrome Exhaust Tip(s)
Control – Park Distance Front
Control – Park Distance Rear
Diffuser – Rear
Electric Seat – Drivers
GPS (Satellite Navigation)
Keyless Start:- Key/FOB Proximity related
Leather Look – Gear Knob
Leather Look – Steering Wheel
Matt Finish – Exterior Highlights
Scuff Plates (on door sills)
Side Skirts
Spare Wheel – Space Saver/Temporary
Starter Button

MY21 Update

Exhaust System – Dual
Blind Spot Sensor
Power Door Mirrors – Folding
Warning – Rear Cross Traffic (when reversing)

SX

Price when new: $33,290 - $39,190

Price used: $24,500 - $47,500

Adds:

19″ Alloy Wheels
Gear Shift Paddles behind Steering Wheel
Gloss Finish Inserts
Leather Look – Inserts in Doors
Leather Seats – Partial
Spoiler – Rear
Sports Seats – 1st Row (Front)
Sports Seats – 2nd Row
Suspension – Sports
Tail Lamps – Tinted
Wireless Charging – Compatible Devices

SL

Price when new: $39,990 - $46,990

Price used: $27,500 - $51,700

Adds:

18″ Alloy Wheels
Adjustable Steering Column – Power & Memory
Ambient Lighting – Interior
Electric Seat – Drivers with Memory
Electric Seat – Passenger
Footwell Lamps – Front
Glass Roof – with Power Blind
Information Display – Head Up
Rain Sensor (Auto wipers)
Rear View Mirror – Electric Anti Glare
Seat – Ventilated Drivers Side
Seat – Ventilated Passenger Side
Sunroof – Electric

MY21 Update

Adjustable Steering Column – Power
9 Speaker Stereo
Camera – Front Vision
Camera – Side Vision
Heated Seats – 1st Row
Premium Sound System
Seat – Passenger with Electric Lumbar

Should you buy a Toyota Camry? Yes.

Sure, it’s not going to impress your friends, and you’re not going to look back at it lustfully when you walk away in a car park, but if all you’re after is a car to be just that, a car, there are few cars that define the ‘smart choice’ quite like the Camry.

Now in its eighth generation, the Toyota Camry packages great features, a very well-sorted and smooth driving experience, and bulletproof reliability into a package with a very reasonable price tag.

Even on the used market, there are very few major issues, and even if things go wrong, parts and labour are cheap and plentiful.

Plus, if you’re tempted by the Camry for its fuel-sipping hybrid tech, Toyota practically wrote the book on hybrid technology so naturally it’s some of the best in the business.

Should you buy a Toyota Camry? Yes.

Sure, it’s not going to impress your friends, and you’re not going to look back at it lustfully when you walk away in a car park, but if all you’re after is a car to be just that, a car, there are few cars that define the ‘smart choice’ quite like the Camry.

Now in its eighth generation, the Toyota Camry packages great features, a very well-sorted and smooth driving experience, and bulletproof reliability into a package with a very reasonable price tag.

Even on the used market, there are very few major issues, and even if things go wrong, parts and labour are cheap and plentiful.

Plus, if you’re tempted by the Camry for its fuel-sipping hybrid tech, Toyota practically wrote the book on hybrid technology so naturally it’s some of the best in the business.

Should you buy a Toyota Camry? Yes.

Sure, it’s not going to impress your friends, and you’re not going to look back at it lustfully when you walk away in a car park, but if all you’re after is a car to be just that, a car, there are few cars that define the ‘smart choice’ quite like the Camry.

Now in its eighth generation, the Toyota Camry packages great features, a very well-sorted and smooth driving experience, and bulletproof reliability into a package with a very reasonable price tag.

Even on the used market, there are very few major issues, and even if things go wrong, parts and labour are cheap and plentiful.

Plus, if you’re tempted by the Camry for its fuel-sipping hybrid tech, Toyota practically wrote the book on hybrid technology so naturally it’s some of the best in the business.

Disclaimer

Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.

Information correct as of August 29, 2023

The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.

Read our full terms and conditions here.

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