The Camry is one of the most well-known vehicles that Toyota has in store. Being this this is a world vehicle; it shares most of the same designs regardless of the market that is in. Together, we’ll break down some important factors to look for in a used Toyota Camry.
Key takeaways
- While most of the Camry models that are in the US were built here, you might be able to find one that was built in Japan.
- The hybrid variant has been around for a few generations, and keeps getting the love it deserves.
- The Camry has a sporty trim that doesn’t disappoint. Most iterations come with a stiff suspension and stronger engine.
Fourth generation (1996-2001)
This iteration of the Camry brought in the new year. When it hit the market, it was only available as a sedan. This generation saw some changes to the trim lineup with the SE being dropped. The base model was renamed to the CE, while the LE, and XLE were carried over. All trim levels were available with either the 2.2-liter inline-four or the 3.0-liter V6 engine. While this was made for the American market, you may get lucky and find yourself one that was made in Japan. An easy way to find out if yours was made in the home country of Japan is by looking at the VIN to see if it starts with “JT2”.
If you’re looking for something that puts you in more control, then you can look for a CE and LE VS model. These may be paired up with manual transmissions. If you’re looking for more power, Toyota has you covered. A supercharger kit for the V6 models that raises the power to 247 hp.
1999 and 2000 saw some changes to the overall lineup of the Camry. These changes saw a coupe join first, then a year later, the convertible joined.
Fifth generation (2002-2006)
Much like the last generation, the trim levels saw a shakeup. The base CE trim was dropped while the SE sport was reintroduced. While not many features were added right away, in 2005 the Camry saw some substantial change. These changes were a chrome grille, with the SE having a unique, blackout grille. Other exterior changes are new headlight and taillight designs, redesigned front bumper, and new wheels.
The interior added a rear center head restraint, a storage bin in the door, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls standard for all trim levels.
Sixth generation (2007-2011)
This generation is the safest the Camry has been since it was introduced, coming with good ratings all around according to the IIHS. This iteration saw dual frontal airbags, front seat-mounted side torso airbags, front and rear row side curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag all come standard. The SE trim, being that it is sportier, gained a firmer suspension tune, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
2007 also saw the special edition of the Camry hybrid. The 50th Anniversary Edition was limited to 3,000 units and features unique wheels and badging, and is painted exclusively in the "Blizzard Pearl" color.
Seventh generation (2012-2017)
The SE trim gains even more love this generation. This year came with a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels. If you opt for the V6 model, you gain 18-inch alloy wheels. Other features for the SE are fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, sport seats and shift paddles. Other than that, there wasn’t any other major change, with prices for the hybrid staying mostly the same.
Eighth generation (2018-2024)
This is the most recent generation for the Camry. For the North American market, the Camry came with tons of trims to pick from. The trims include L, LE, SE, XLE, XSE, XLE V6 and XSE V6, as well as LE, SE and XLE versions of the Camry Hybrid.
2020 saw the introduction of the TRD Camry trim level. This was based on the SE trim and only available with a V6; it comes with sportier suspension, sports exhaust, body kit, trunk spoiler, special TRD-badged interior and red seat belts. The TRD has some pretty respectable speeds when tested by Car and Driver. Able to go 0-60 in 5.8 seconds, and a quarter mile in 14.4 seconds, thanks to the V6.
2021 saw some new tech join the family. This year saw Android Auto being added, a new 7- and 9-inch floating multimedia displays and also one of the first Toyotas to debut new Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+. This system was made to keep the driver, and passengers safe.
Which Camry is right for me? Well, that depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a sporty beast, or a reliable daily driver, there’s options for you. This article only scratched the surface. If you’re wanting to see one in person, then come see us here at Jarrett.