WASHINGTON — The first sedan you think of is likely the Toyota Camry; it’s the most popular sedan sold in America. You see them everywhere — some old and some new. They seem to never die; they just keeping on motoring along.
The 2015 Camry is a little different from past models. The more modern look should bring past owners back, and could attract some new ones. It has some more interesting styling — nothing over the top, but you do notice this Camry more now than before. The front end is where most of the attention in the redesign was focused. The new large grill dominates the front of the car. The headlights have a slightly more aggressive and modern look. Even the sides of the car look a bit more sculpted, with some creases toward the bottom of the doors. That being said it still isn’t going to be mistaken for anything but a Camry.
The interior also was spruced up a bit, with nicer materials, at least in the top-of-the-line, $35,649 XLE trim level tester. It includes heated leather seats up front and space in the back for three adults. The Camry has a large cabin for this class with a good amount of leg and head room for most people. You might need to check out the back seats with forward-facing child seats installed — it seemed that the headrest in the car pushed the child seat more forward, although it could’ve just been our child seat.
I appreciated the large knobs and buttons, which are easy to see and use for all ages. Even the seven-inch screen part of the $805 Entune /JBL audio and NAV system worked well and was easy to use, which isn’t always the case these days.
The ride seems better than past Camrys I’ve driven. While it’s no sporty machine, it gives a pleasant ride most of the time. It handles most bumps with a fuss, and suspension is soft so it will give a hint of some lean in tighter corners.
My tester has the V6, a rarer option in the midsize sedan class lately, which helps move the Toyota with gusto. The six-speed automatic was mostly smooth, but would make quicker shifts if you were really moving. The front tires can’t always handle that power; watch for wheel spin, especially when wet or turning and accelerating. The V6 is still a good option to consider for those looking for more passing power. Even the fuel economy with the V6 isn’t bad — I averaged 25.5 mpg of mixed driving in 200 miles, just about what the sticker said.
The Toyota Camry might not be the most exciting vehicle on the road, but it does what you ask of it with good reliability. With its large updated interior and plenty of power from the optional V6, the Camry will continue at the top of the midsize sedan class now that there is a bit of flair in the design.
